I’m running for State Senate, and I’m asking for your support January 14th.
SENATE DISTRICT 60
My name is Peter Wagenius. I’m a seasoned community organizer, public servant, and dad fighting for a healthy, equitable future for Minnesota.
I’ve worked on state, city, and federal policy for 20+ years—environment, transportation, housing and more. I know in detail how the Minnesota Legislature works: how to win and how to fight back. In this critical moment I’ll hit the ground running.
Endorsements
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Keith Ellison
MINNESOTA ATTORNEY GENERAL
“I’m supporting Peter Wagenius to succeed the great Sen. Kari Dziedzic, whose tragic loss we mourn. Peter’s a worthy successor with a proven history of service & success. He’s a leading environmental champion, an advocate for workers & justice, and a stalwart for human rights.”
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Katie Cashman
MINNEAPOLIS CITY COUNCIL MEMBER
“Peter will be a champion for the City of Minneapolis as we face federal funding cuts under the Trump administration. I know we can count on him to secure much-needed resources for housing, transportation, education, public safety and other local needs.”
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Jessica Askew
PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHER
“I’m thrilled that someone of Peter’s talent, passion and authenticity is willing to step up to serve us in this district. I’ve always been impressed by Peter’s knowledge of and commitment to public education.”
Dear Neighbors,
Our late Senator Kari Dziedzic served Senate District 60 exceedingly well. There will be a primary on January 14 and a general election on January 28 to carry on her legacy. All voters in Senate District 60 deserve an equal voice in choosing our next Senator. I filed to be on that ballot and ask for your support.
With the current tie in both houses of the Legislature and Donald Trump once again on the cusp of power, we need someone ready to step in from minute one. With 20+ years of experience winning long-term progressive fights for Minnesota and 20+ years in this district, I’m ready.
I work at the Minnesota Chapter of Sierra Club: we work on real climate action and environmental justice. I’ve led us into new partnerships with faith, labor and housing organizations working for housing abundance. I worked with Senator Dziedzic on three historic environmental bills she passed.
Peter speaks about Kari Dziedzic’s legacy at a recent campaign event.
Our 2023 successes prove Minnesota can lead the nation toward a just and sustainable future, to a caring economy not based on extraction from labor or nature, but where everyone gets the full benefit of their work and the next generation matters as much as people today.
There’s more to do—and I know how to get it done. I’ve worked on state, city, and federal policy for 20+ years—environment, transportation, climate, housing and more. I know in detail how the Legislature works: how to win and how to fight back. In this critical moment I’ll hit the ground running.
Critical is an understatement: Trump will distract us from enriching himself and allies by demonizing our fellow Americans. He’ll attack the freedom to choose, new Americans, trans kids and more. In his first term he targeted East Africans in Cedar/Riverside with dangerous lies.
I recently spoke with a college student who’s really worried anti-trans laws in other states will get pushed in Minnesota, including by Trump trying to withhold federal funding. People will fight at the Capitol over money, but human dignity is not negotiable.
I love our district. Mandy and I are raising our daughters here. Our older daughter is super excited to join other “big kids” from our neighborhood at Northeast Middle School next year. Both our girls attend Pratt, a loving and diverse school that looks and feels like the America we want our country to be. I’m a lifelong Minneapolis resident and Minneapolis Public Schools grad: I want all kids to have the opportunities I had. We’re rooted in and committed to this community.
I’m so grateful for all the support I’ve received so far! Please spread the word about the special election and browse this site to learn more about my experience, values, and vision — and please vote on January 14th and 28th!
Sincerely,
Peter Wagenius
