Marisa Simonetti

Marisa Simonetti was born in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Minnesota in 2024. Her career experience includes working in real estate.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Marisa got involved in politics after volunteering in her son's Kindergarten classroom and seeing how tirelessly our teachers work to invest in our children's futures, yet are constantly in jeopardy of losing vital funding support. She also volunteers in the school lunchroom bi-weekly and sees the children blessed with free lunches, allowing them to thrive and grow.

Marisa is a mother, businesswoman, and holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Minnesota. Our state has so much to offer, from beautiful Duluth, the State Fair, Minnehaha Falls, the Guthrie Theater, and many historic buildings such as Paisley Park and Mill City Museum. She volunteers in the community and stands up for families and workers to ensure they receive the support they need so they can thrive, grow, and connect in our beautiful state of Minnesota.

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?

Affordable Housing & Public Safety

Marisa Simonetti is committed to tackling Minnesota’s housing affordability crisis while ensuring safer communities. She believes in balancing social progress with fiscal responsibility, investing in housing solutions while reducing crime through stronger community partnerships.With a background in real estate and entrepreneurship, Simonetti brings practical, results-driven leadership. Her focus is on reducing wasteful spending, supporting small businesses, and ensuring Minnesota’s economy works for everyone.Community-First Solutions

As a young mother and active community member, Simonetti prioritizes policies that put Minnesota families first—whether through education, affordable housing, or essential services. She emphasizes transparency, accountability, and practical solutions over politics.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Community focused solutions

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

Integrity & Honesty: being truthful and transparent, even when it’s not convenient.

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

The first major historical event I remember in my lifetime was September 11, 2001. I was elementary school age and can still recall seeing the news on TV and not fully understanding what was happening, only that something very bad and very big had occurred. It was the first time I realized the world could change in an instant.

Regular election

Marisa Simonetti did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2024 Candidate Connection survey.

Special election

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a businesswoman and mother. I entered this race in response to seeing violence and increasing levels of both physical unsafely and financial struggle. I believe a safe home and family are the foundation of a community's growth, safety, and long term success.

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?

-Spend wisely. Do more, with Less.Hold Crime Accountable. Protect our ChildrenSupport Nurses/Teachers

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Public safety, the growth and expansion of those who will create our future

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

'I Pledge Allegiance', by Mike Rotchburns and 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' by Phil Mahooters.

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

Honesty-alignment of words and actions. Service oriented.

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

I have the ability to select trustworthy people of excellence & am confident in my decision making in the face of uncertainty.

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

Commissioner is a financial job that also involves meeting the needs of the community in the most efficient way possible.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I will leave a legacy of love and laughter.

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

The first event I remember was 9/11. I was 8 years old.

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

I was a nanny for local families from age 11 until I had my son at 23. My first official job was at a small local bakery, serving sweet treats.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

The current budget is not transparent, and I would go so far as to say misleading at certain points. Whether or not this is intentional, it makes it difficult for the community to make informed decisions. It's critical to be accountable by providing accurate information to those who our decisions impact.