Congressman Brad Finstad refused to answer questions about rising input costs facing farmers this spring planting season, as KTTC reported he would not make himself available for an interview to speak to Minnesotans’ concerns.

“It’s not surprising Brad Finstad won’t answer questions about rising costs because his policies are part of the problem,” said Jake Johnson. “Finstad supports war overseas and reckless tariffs that are making life more expensive for Southern Minnesotans, and we deserve better.”

KTTC had the following questions they hoped to ask Representative Finstad. In response, Jake Johnson — who is running for Congress against Finstad — answered the questions below.

1. Question: What are you hearing from First District farmers?

   Jake Johnson: “First District farmers have made clear to me that the tariffs and Iran War are driving up input costs, especially for fertilizer and diesel. From roundtables with farmers in Frontenac to cafe stops with farmers in New Richland, I’ve been hearing these concerns over and over again as I travel across the district.”

   
   

2. Question: How are you impacted by current economics?

   Jake Johnson: “I’m a public school teacher with four boys at home. Like so many other families, we feel the rising costs, with the daily expense of groceries, clothes, gas, and healthcare continuing to be a burden. Families like ours need Finstad to focus on lowering prices, but he isn’t.”

   
   

3. Question: Is additional federal assistance for farmers likely?

   Jake Johnson: “My priority is making sure that our farmers get real relief, both through federal assistance and by tackling the root causes of these challenges. That means ending the massive tariffs, bringing an end to the war in Iran, and taking on the big corporations that keep driving up costs. Farmers across southern Minnesota tell me they don’t want politicians in Washington destroying the markets their checkoff dollars have helped build over generations.”

   
   

4. Question: Do you support Trump’s handling of Iran?

   Jake Johnson: “No. I would vote to end the war in Iran. It’s costing Minnesota families billions and jacking up gas and fertilizer prices when we should be addressing problems here at home. I hear from people in southern Minnesota all the time about how they are tired of Congress taking a backseat and not speaking up for us.”

   
   

5. Question: Are you concerned about election implications?

   Jake Johnson: “The policies that Brad Finstad supports are not good for southern Minnesota. Voters tell me every day they are frustrated and fed up with high prices and that Finstad isn’t helping, and they’re ready to make their frustrations clear at the ballot box.”

While Finstad can’t be reached to answer questions, Johnson is meeting directly with farmers and outlining solutions.

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