Jeff Backer

Public programs only work when taxpayers trust their dollars are being used responsibly. When fraud and abuse go unchecked, that trust disappears quickly. Strengthening oversight and holding bad actors accountable must be a priority. #mnleg

One of the best parts of this job is hearing directly from people across the district. Conversations with farmers, teachers, and small business owners provide valuable insight into what’s working and what isn’t. Those voices matter when decisions are made at the Capitol.

Representing rural Minnesota means reminding people at the Capitol that our communities face different challenges. Healthcare access, workforce shortages, and economic development look very different in small towns than they do in the metro. Policy should reflect those realities.

Minnesota is full of great small towns, each with its own history and traditions. Some of the best places in our state don’t always get the attention they deserve. What’s a small town in Minnesota that more people should visit?

The latest fraud prevention package isn’t going to solve Minnesota’s problems. I’m focused on real solutions to combat fraud. That means strengthening the OIG, restoring county-level oversight, and updating outdated systems so agencies can catch problems earlier. #mnleg

As the legislative session continues, one thing is clear: tough decisions are unavoidable. The question is whether we choose accountability and stability or continue practices that leave taxpayers and communities exposed. I will continue to fight for the best for Minnesotans

Rural Minnesota: What’s the biggest challenge to accessing local health care? Reply & let me know. #ruralMN #mnleg

Outcomes > headlines. My focus this session: accountability, rural communities, and responsible governance. #mnleg

Fiscal responsibility isn’t optional. Taxpayers deserve transparency, accountability, and results. #mnleg

Health care costs keep rising. The government shouldn’t make it worse. Affordability matters. #mnleg

Noncompliance isn’t bold; it’s risky. HF1 alignment protects funding, flexibility, and stability in health care. #mnleg

Oversight and discipline are essential to good government. Minnesotans deserve systems that work. #mnleg

Rural hospitals aren’t optional. They’re essential. This session, I’m focused on protecting access to care close to home. #mnleg #ruralMN

Mental health access can’t be an afterthought, especially in rural Minnesota. Real solutions are needed. #mnleg

Fraud isn’t a paperwork issue — it’s a taxpayer issue. Oversight and accountability matter. #mnleg

I'm looking forward to getting back to the Capitol and getting to work.

Ensuring conformity with H.R. 1 protects Minnesota’s access to federal health care funding, while cracking down on fraud is essential to restoring trust and protecting taxpayers. Rural hospitals, independent pharmacies, and mental health access will remain top priorities.

The 2026 Legislative Session begins TOMORROW (2/17), and I’m ready to get back to work for our district. As Chair of the Health Committee, my priorities are clear: protect rural health care, hold government accountable, and safeguard taxpayer dollars.

Supporting rural EMS and access to healthcare close to home remains a top priority as we look forward to the legislative session.

Listening to constituents is one of the most important parts of this job. Your voices matter.