Alycia Gruenhagen

Alycia Gruenhagen was born in Waconia, Minnesota. She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Northwestern, St. Paul in 2003. Her career experience includes working as an entrepreneur.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am Alycia Gruenhagen—“The People’s Candidate,” a lifelong Minnesotan, entrepreneur, community builder, and grassroots candidate who believes government should remember who it works for: the people.

Born and raised in Glencoe, Minnesota, I grew up around farmers, families, small businesses, and people who understand personal responsibility, faith, community, and freedom. Public service has been part of my life for decades. I interned in Congress in Washington, D.C., and grew up watching my father serve in the Minnesota Legislature.

My experience goes beyond politics. I built and operated a community-owned natural food co-op, creating a place where people could access local food, education, and community connection. That experience taught me that real solutions don't come from political slogans—they come from listening, working together, taking risks, and doing the work.

I am running because Minnesota deserves authentic representation from someone who understands what it means to build something, serve a community, face adversity, and stand by deeply held convictions.

I am not running to become another Washington politician. I am running to bring the voice, common sense, independence, and resilience of everyday Minnesotans to Washington.

My message is simple: Life. Liberty. Minnesota. Our future belongs to those willing to stand up, take responsibility, and build something better for the generations that follow.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

1. Minnesota Roots & Real-World Experience

I am a lifelong Minnesotan, entrepreneur, community builder, former congressional intern, and daughter of a Minnesota legislator. I grew up in rural Minnesota and have spent my life connected to families, farmers, small businesses, and local communities. I built and operated a community-owned natural food co-op, gaining firsthand experience with entrepreneurship, food access, regulation, and serving people directly. My candidacy reflects a background rooted in Minnesota communities and practical, real-world experience outside of government.2. Life, Liberty & the Constitution

My political philosophy centers on constitutional government, individual liberty, personal responsibility, religious freedom, parental rights, and the protection of life from conception to natural death. I believe government exists to protect the rights and freedoms of the people rather than to replace their judgment or control every aspect of their lives. These principles guide my positions on the Constitution, family, elections, government authority, and the role of citizens in a free society.3. Independent Representation

I am running as a write-in candidate for U.S. Senate because I believe political representation should be grounded in convictions and accountability to citizens rather than party labels alone. My candidacy emphasizes independence, transparency, and direct connection with Minnesotans. I have not approached public service as a conventional political career. My experience includes grassroots campaigns, community entrepreneurship, and engagement with people across Minnesota, and I intend to bring that perspective to the national conversation.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

My primary focus has been community health, food access, health freedom, and representative government. My experience operating a community-owned food co-op showed me the importance of nutrition, affordable food, personal health choices, and strong local communities.

We must be vigilant about border security and immigration enforcement, public safety, religious liberty, Second Amendment rights, support for families and small businesses, affordable healthcare, responsible government spending, and strengthening Minnesota’s agricultural and rural communities. Above all, I believe government must remain accountable to the people, operate within the Constitution, protect Americans’ rights, and exercise its authority responsibly.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

I am proud to have the support and endorsements of everyday Minnesotans, including business owners, ministers, political activists, local board members, and concerned citizens. These are the people who make up our communities and the people elected officials are ultimately responsible for representing.

My campaign has been built from the grassroots up, with support from individuals who know me, understand my convictions, and believe their voices deserve to be heard. I value that support deeply because it comes from people actively engaged in their communities—not simply from political institutions or party leadership.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a freedom loving, patriotic, pro-life, Constitutionalist from the heart of rural Minnesota.

I'm asking for your vote to represent Minnesota in the U.S. Senate.

UNITE to RESTORE and RENEW America.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Unite behind our shared American values of love for country, liberty and the U.S. Constitution.Restore order to our government and law enforcement.Renew Minnesota and America by encouraging entrepreneurship and development in every sector of society.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Agriculture and food access.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to my parents who have held on to their convictions and never been afraid to speak up for what is right. They are a wonderful team and I admire their courage, bravery and faithfulness to the call on their lives for decades!

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Read the book: Good to Great

I've found that keeping things simple is the most difficult and yet the most effective tactic I've learned for accomplishing important goals.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

The characteristics and principles that are most important for an elected official include integrity, transparency, accountability, and a deep commitment to serving the public interest. Integrity ensures that officials act ethically and honorably, making decisions that are in the best interest of their constituents, not for personal gain. Transparency is crucial for building trust with the public, as it allows citizens to see the decision-making process and understand how conclusions are reached. Accountability means that officials are responsible for their actions and decisions and must be willing to answer to the public for them. Lastly, a genuine commitment to public service is essential, demonstrating that an elected official is dedicated to improving the community and the lives of its residents, rather than pursuing power for its own sake. These principles, combined with a willingness to listen, learn, and lead with compassion, define the foundation of effective and respected leadership in public office.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibilities for someone elected to the United States Senate revolve around legislation, representation, and oversight. As a Senator, one's primary duty is to legislate, which involves drafting, debating, and voting on laws that address the needs and challenges facing our nation. This legislative role also includes the responsibility to review, amend, and decide on bills across a wide range of issues, from healthcare and education to national security and infrastructure.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to do what I was put on earth to do and I believe that includes protecting people and defending them so they can live freely in a free society.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

I remember the Presidency of Ronald Reagan and also the debates of President George H. W. Bush vs Michael Dukakis! A long time ago now.

I lived through the historic Terrorist attack on the World Trade towers - and I admired George W. Bush as our leader. That was the beginning of our United States was on terrorism that continues today. I believe we can strengthen our security to greatly reduce the threat of terroristic attacks.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Grocery store clerk and stock person at Town & Country Grocery, Glencoe Minnesota's (now Coborns) - I was there 3 years 😀

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

I would rather not be Cinderella or Ariel but truthfully sometimes I feel like I can identify - working and wishing behind the scenes to make magic happen ✨️ Not always getting credit but seeing the good outcome of many things I do for the greater good and so continuing. Somehow I find satisfaction in seeing the good happen regardless of if I do or don't get credit. I guess it keeps me going.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Texas Hold 'em! Good American tune :)

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I am not a proponent of term limits. I believe in the electoral process and the people's constitutional right to elect whom they want to represnet them in office - without legislators deciding who represents free thinking, individual American voters.

I believe there is value to the depth of experience and expertise that long-serving legislators can bring to the U.S. Senate and other governmental bodies. This perspective emphasizes the importance of allowing elected officials to build on their knowledge and relationships over time, fostering a more nuanced understanding of both domestic and international issues.

With term limits we can inadvertently remove highly effective leaders who have a proven track record of serving their constituents well. Additionally, the electoral process itself is a mechanism for accountability. Voters have the power to decide whether an official should continue in their role based on their performance and alignment with the electorate's values.

It's essential, however, to balance this with mechanisms that ensure the political system remains competitive, and open to new ideas. Encouraging active engagement and participation from all voters can help maintain a truly representative government.

What qualities does the U.S. Senate possess that makes it unique as an institution?

The U.S. Senate possesses several unique qualities that distinguish it as an institution within the American government. One of its most defining characteristics is its role as the chamber of "sober second thought." This stems from its smaller size compared to the House of Representatives, allowing for more extended debate and deliberation on legislation. This structure is designed to ensure thorough scrutiny of laws and to temper the swift changes that might come from the more numerous House.

Another unique quality is its representation principle. Each state, regardless of its population size, is represented by two senators. This ensures that all states have an equal voice in the Senate, balancing the population-based representation in the House. This principle supports the federal nature of our government, giving smaller states a strong voice in national affairs.

The Senate also holds exclusive powers not shared with the House, including the authority to ratify treaties, confirm presidential appointments to the judiciary and executive departments, and conduct impeachment trials for federal officials, including the President. These responsibilities underscore the Senate's critical role in shaping foreign policy, the judiciary, and holding the executive branch accountable.

Lastly, the six-year term of a senator, as opposed to the two-year term of a House representative, allows senators to work on longer-term issues with a degree of insulation from immediate political pressures. This longer term is intended to provide stability and continuity in governance.

These qualities collectively contribute to the Senate's unique role in American democracy, balancing immediate public opinion with a longer-term view of the nation's needs and interests, ensuring that all states have a say in federal governance, and maintaining a check on the powers of the executive branch.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for senators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Varied backgrounds and experience are what make us strong together. I am grateful for men and women from various professional backgrounds who are willing to serve their country in the Senate.

What do you think of the filibuster?

The filibuster is a significant procedural tool in the U.S. Senate, representing both a hallmark of the institution's commitment to extended debate and a point of contention in modern legislative processes. My view on the filibuster is nuanced, recognizing its historical role in protecting the rights of the minority party and ensuring that significant legislation receives thorough consideration and debate.

However, it's also clear that the filibuster can be used to obstruct legislative progress and prevent the passage of bills that have broad support. The challenge lies in balancing the need to protect minority rights with the imperative to ensure the Senate can function effectively and respond to the needs of the American people.

In considering reforms, it's essential to weigh the benefits of preserving the filibuster against the potential for it to be used as a tool for gridlock. Any changes to this procedural rule should aim to encourage bipartisanship, facilitate productive debate, and ensure the Senate remains a body where meaningful deliberation takes place, while also allowing for the efficient passage of legislation that serves the public interest.

Is there a particular senator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

My father Minnesota Senator Glenn Gruenhagen

How would you evaluate a judicial nominee?

My evaluation of a judicial nominee would be comprehensive, considering their legal acumen, judicial philosophy, integrity, temperament, and commitment to justice, ensuring they are well-equipped to serve with fairness and honestly.

What kind of relationships would you build with other senators?

Collaborative.

How should the U.S. Senate use its investigative powers?

The objectives in the U.S. Senate using investigative powers should be to gather facts, assess the effectiveness of government policies and programs, and identify any necessary reforms to prevent future issues. Investigations should be aimed at protecting public interests, safeguarding taxpayer dollars, and enhancing the efficiency and integrity of government operations.

What criteria would you apply when deciding whether to confirm presidential appointees to their Cabinet?

When deciding whether to confirm presidential appointees to their Cabinet, I would apply several critical criteria to ensure that the nominees are well-suited for their roles and aligned with the best interests of the American people. First and foremost, I would assess the nominee's qualifications and experience relevant to the position. It's essential that appointees possess a deep understanding of the department they are nominated to lead, along with a proven track record of effective leadership and management.

Second, I would evaluate the nominee's integrity and commitment to public service. This includes examining their past actions and decisions to ensure they have consistently acted ethically and in the public's interest.

Third, I would consider the nominee's vision for the department and their ability to implement policies that align with our nation's values and priorities. This involves understanding their approach to addressing current challenges and opportunities within their purview.

Additionally, I would assess the nominee's ability to work collaboratively with Congress, other government agencies, and stakeholders to achieve meaningful progress.

Finally, I would consider the nominee's commitment to transparency and accountability, ensuring they are willing to engage openly with the public and Congress about their actions and decisions.

In summary, my decision to confirm a presidential appointee would be based on a comprehensive evaluation of their qualifications, integrity, vision, collaborative spirit, and commitment to transparency and accountability.

What committees interest you?

Agriculture, Health and Human Services, Infrastructure

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

My views on financial transparency and government accountability are foundational to my belief in responsible governance. Financial transparency ensures that taxpayers can see how their money is being spent, fostering trust between the government and the public. It's crucial for preventing corruption, enabling informed public discourse, and ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively to serve the public good.

Government accountability is equally important. It holds elected officials and government agencies responsible for their actions and decisions, ensuring they meet their obligations to the public. This includes being answerable for fiscal management, policy outcomes, and the overall conduct of government business.

Note: Gruenhagen submitted the above survey responses to [the profile publisher] on July 15, 2024.

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July 12 submission

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

UNITE to RESTORE and RENEW America.

I am a freedom loving, patriotic, pro-life, Constitutionalist from the heart of rural Minnesota.

I'm asking for your vote to represent Minnesota in the U.S. Senate.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Unite - We are the United States of America, and yet these days we are so divided you would never know it. We must remain united to stand as a nation!Restore - Chaos broke out accross the land in 2020 and that started right here in Minneapolis, MN. We must work to restore order and pray it spreads to a National level in order to renew faith in our law enforcement, laws, government and respect for our history so that America can thrive again.Renew Minnesota and America - change is needed in our communities, state, and nation, but good change, renewed energy, and vision are what we need to have hope for the future of America.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I'm passionate about good food access and small business development.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I do look up to my parents for there committment to their cause and the conviction to stand on what they believe. They have been very faithful to their mission always!

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

My father is my inspiration - look him up! Minnesota Sen. Glenn Gruenhagen

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Humility, servant leadership, conviction, determination, America first agenda, backbone and belief in our nations future!

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I am a truthspeaker and yet also a good listener. I have always put mucb thought into my decisions and sought to find the right answers - not just the quickest solutions. I also believe I lead with the heart and we need more of that in government.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

A Senator of Minnesota is responsible to the people for their leadership in lawmaking and stewardship of all our resources. We can initiate projects that would benefit our rural and metro districts educational opportunities, incentives for businesses, reduced taxation and regulation, fair treatment in the court systems, medical freedom etc.

Ownership in America is a big deal. We want to encourage people in their homes, businesses and politically to take ownership of their lives for a better tomorrow.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Grocery store clerk and stock person - 3 years.

What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

Resoring order to our government, law enforcement and society in America is going to be a challenge in the next 10 years and beyond, however it must be a priority. Renewing Minnesota on a local and state level is the only way to improve our economy - and economic prosperity is crucial for a struggling America right now. 🇺🇸

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I do not support term limits. I believe it interferes with the freedom and rights of the voters to decide who represents them - it is not up to legislators to limit the people's voice.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for senators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Yes. I have had some "schooling" on how Washington works thru a Congressional Internshipalso I've seen an up-close perspective on lawmaking through my Father in the Minnesota Legislator since 2010. I've been involved in campaigns and followed the legislative process for many years.

What kind of relationships would you build with other senators?

Encourage one another in our work and help to build a more rich and full conversation for developing reliable and economically sound policies for the bright future of America.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

It is neccessary to cooperate with one another in order to get laws passed. No candidate or voter wants to believe that from an altruistic and idealistic campaign position you may need to work with the other side but if we want to make any progress whatsoever we need to find was of cooperating with one another. I do not subscribe to compromise but I am well aware of cooperating with the process.

How should the U.S. Senate use its investigative powers?

We are responsible not to weaponize the legal system but to support a fair judicial process.

What criteria would you apply when deciding whether to confirm presidential appointees to their Cabinet?

Honesty, a committed track record to their espoused values, voter input!

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I do believe we are accountable to the people for how we handle/mishandle taxpayer funds. YOU the voter should have a voice and it needs to be heard in how and what we fund. Taxpayer funded abortions are an abomination to our state and taxpayer for starters. This is sick and wrong. There are so many other areas of financial misuse and corruption in our government. If I become a Senator, I won't support overspending and certainly not spending on matters the church is meant to deal with like unwanted pregnancy and gender identity. These are spiritual issues and they require communities of faith to speak and not to allow government officials to make the matters simply a legislative matter.

Campaign website

Gruenhagen’s campaign website stated the following:

My Views

Dear Voters,

I am running to represent the people.

To honor your vote, I would like to say I ran to represent the people of Minnesota. There is a reason I left my priorities limited to UNITE, RESTORE and RENEW Minnesota. In order to move as a nation, forward we will need to work TOGETHER and UNITE to solve the challenges we face collectively.

We need to work together to solve the challenges...

I am a conservative from the heart of rural Minnesota. I am a nurturer in community and appreciate creativity/expression/art which is what made me decide to run for office. I think these values are critical right now as we develop businesses and transition from the baby-boomers to the current generation driving our economy forward. I am looking to ignite the younger crowd because we need leaders and business owners. I'm a grower of plants (gardener) and businesses. I am in favor of our natural spaces. I am a freedom lover. I am committed to upholding the Constitution and the freedom to think and act as responsible citizens. We are a democracy in a republic, we should have a vote and a say in the way our government is run.

...our basic rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Regarding the current state of Law Enforcement on the mind of a lot of people, I do support our law enforcement and military. Why make any laws whatsoever if we are not going to enforce them? These men and women need to be lead by their departments and agencies. Their values and ideals lead the officers in what decisions they need to make in difficult moments. Leadership is where change begins, and we should be talking to these men and women and holding them accountable for change rather than officers who have been hired and trained to carry out orders.

Leadership is where change begins...

Getting back to some of my campaign themes I have 3 primary messages: UNITE, RESTORE and RENEW Minnesota and America... and all of this happens only by working together. The important issues we are facing require that our approach needs to change, so that we can work together. Polarizing political battles are hurting our causes, our people and our nation. What does it matter Democrat or Republican - Be a good citizen, practice love toward your neighbor, develop your community, that is how we will renew Minnesota and America like we have done for generations.

Be a good citizen, practice love toward your neighbors, develop our communities, renew Minnesota...

On the issue of abortion - again what does it matter Democrat or Republican - this is a matter of the heart, not a political issue. As Americans we need need to spend more time loving our youth, training them up and investing in them on a heart level - our children are our future. That is where we begin to realize the value of a life. As a Christian, I believe we are to let God be God in all circumstance and not take life in our own hands. It is very clear to me that God is the giver of life and nothing we do should interfere with his much higher knowledge and wisdom. I feel the same about capitol punishment - I do not support humans playing God and taking life into their own hands regardless of the circumstances.

​-our children are our future.

In Minnesota there are lot of challenges including food access, access to quality medical care and improved educational opportunities which we all benefit from. We need to work together on improving opportunities in our state with these concerns being our priority. I love Minnesota and I want to see our state continue to shine through good stewardship and brilliant businesses like it has for many generations. In my opinion that happens in three primary ways... UNITE as citizens, RESTORE order to our government and RENEW Minnesota and America by working together. Above all, I believe we can come together CHERISHING our FREEDOMS and LIBERTIES while still maintaining our INDIVIDUALISM.

​I believe we can come together cherishing our freedoms and liberties while still maintaining our individualism.

Respectfully,

Alycia R. Gruenhagen

Candidate for

United States Senate[2]

—Alycia Gruenhagen’s campaign website (2024)[3]

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