Kari Dorry

Kari Dorry earned a high school diploma from Ortonville High School. She went on to earn a bachelor's degree and a graduate degree from Minnesota State University in 2002 and 2020, respectively. Her career experience includes working as a special education teacher.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Kari Dorry is a mom, teacher, union organizer, and community advocate who believes caring for one another is what makes strong communities possible. As a special education teacher, she has spent her career supporting children and families, helping students succeed, and making sure every person feels seen, valued, and included. As a parent, Kari understands the everyday challenges families face- balancing work and family life, finding affordable childcare, supporting schools, and simply trying to make ends meet. Those experiences shape her commitment to practical, people-focused leadership.

Kari is running because she believes it’s time to calm the chaos and focus on what truly matters: supporting families, strengthening schools, and building communities where people feel connected and supported. She believes politics should bring people together to solve problems, not divide neighbors against one another.

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?

Protect our democracy and local voice: I believe government works best when every vote counts, every voice is heard, and elected leaders are accountable to the people they serve.Lower costs and strengthen rural communities:

Families are feeling the pressure of rising healthcare, housing, childcare, and grocery costs. I want to make rural Minnesota a place where people can afford to stay, work, and raise a family.Build communities rooted in respect and opportunity:

Every Minnesotan deserves to feel safe, valued, and included. That means investing in public education, supporting our neighbors, and protecting the rights and dignity of every person.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

As a special education teacher and lifelong rural Minnesotan, I’m especially passionate about public education, affordable healthcare, and protecting our democracy. Every day I see how strong schools change lives, and I believe every child, no matter their ZIP code, deserves the opportunity to succeed. I’m also committed to making healthcare more affordable for families and ensuring rural communities have the resources they need to thrive. Above all, I believe we have to protect our democratic institutions and defend the rights and freedoms that allow every Minnesotan to have a voice in shaping our future.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

MN DFL Feminist Caucus, Save the Boundary Waters Action Fund, MN Young DFL, MN NOW (National Organization for Women), DFL Rural Caucus, Planned Parenthood, Stonewall DFL, Women Winning

Kari Dorry did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2022 Candidate Connection survey.