Melisa Franzen

Melisa Franzen (Democratic Party) was a member of the Minnesota State Senate, representing District 49. She assumed office on January 8, 2013. She left office on January 3, 2023. Franzen did not run for re-election to Minnesota State Senate District 49 in 2022.

Franzen (Democratic Party) ran for election to the U.S. Senate to represent Minnesota. She did not appear on the ballot for the Democratic primary on August 11, 2026.

Franzen was elected state Senate minority leader in September 2021, to replace Susan Kent (D), who had stepped down earlier that month.[1] She served in this role until January 2023.

Melisa Franzen did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2026 Candidate Connection survey.

Melisa Franzen did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2020 Candidate Connection survey.

Franzen's campaign website highlighted the following issues:

Education Investment

Our education system is the bedrock of Minnesota’s prosperity. A strong education system means a lifetime of success for our children, a capable workforce, an innovative economy, and healthier and safer communities. We must continue to improve the quality and effectiveness of our education system for all learners.

Investments in early childhood learning are pivotal to our future.

Healthy Communities

A top priority for me is to ensure that seniors and our most vulnerable residents have access to the high-quality care they deserve. While providing these vital services, we must also be accountable for health care spending to make efficient use of our resources. I believe in expanding evidence-based programs like home visiting and supporting basic programs such as the Minnesota Poison Control Center. This session I was the chief author of the Minnesota Stroke System legislation. The Stroke System will save taxpayer dollars and help people live their lives to the fullest.

Transportation Infrastructure

Investments in transportation benefit all Minnesotans. Whether you are a business owner that distributes goods or services throughout our state, a cabin owner that travels on weekends, or a daily commuter to work or school. Our transportation system is overdue for investment. I will continue to work to fight for smart investments to maintain and improve the transportation infrastructure that reduces congestion and facilitates the efficient flow of commerce in every corner of the state.

Business Growth

As a small business owner and a former Target attorney, I understand the challenges of building a successful business. This is why I authored legislation to reduce business property taxes statewide, lower the unemployment insurance tax, and minimize the burdens of regulation in the business auditing process. I also understand the importance of planning and saving for future economic downturns. That is why I support an automatic reserve in the event of a budget surplus, and authored legislation to include inflation in our state budget forecast.

Environmental Awareness

As a Minnesotan, I appreciate the natural beauty that makes this state such a wonderful place to raise a family. Each time we travel to our family cabin, I am reminded that fresh air and clean water are priceless resources that need our stewardship and protection. As your state senator, I voted for the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Bill and the Clean Water Accountability Act to protect these resources so future generations can count on a clean, healthy environment.[8]

—Melisa Franzen[9]

Franzen's website highlighted the following campaign themes:[10]

Education

Excerpt: "I will work to stop the erosion of our education system by promoting innovation, strengthening science and technology education, and working together with teachers and the community so that every child can achieve his or her full potential."

Jobs and the Economy

Excerpt: "I will support start-ups and entrepreneurs so they thrive in Minnesota. We must implement a simplified, transparent tax code and streamline the regulatory environment so that business can invest in Minnesota with confidence and predictability. "

Budget and Taxes

Excerpt: "I will work for a budget that is balanced and sustainable over the long-term. I will also work to repair our complicated tax system."

Southwest Light Rail Transit

Excerpt: "I support the development of the Southwest Light Rail Transit corridor. Light Rail is projected to create 60,000 new jobs along the corridor. The project has a broad base of support in the business community and by five local chambers of commerce."

Healthcare

Excerpt: "I will work to move forward an implementation that puts the health and well-being of Minnesotans first. Access to affordable and quality health care, and cost-containment will be my focus."