OKABENA — Larry Liepold, a farmer from rural Okabena, announced Wednesday his candidacy for Minnesota House of Representatives. The announcement comes just a few weeks after current Rep. Rod Hamilton released a statement saying he would not be seeking reelection as the representative for District 21B.
“I’ve always had an interest in policy,” Liepold said. “I’m a bit of a political junkie.”
Liepold will be joining the ballot as a republican. As a farmer, he said agriculture and agriculture policy are prominent topics he would like to address going forward. While he said the new legislative year and upcoming session will be crucial for defining other areas of importance, the current situation surrounding emergency medical services is something he sees as needing attention, having served as an EMT since 1984.
Liepold will be honored next month by the Minnesota Pork Board as its Environmental Steward award winner. He is also involved at his local church, where he notes that the aging population has become a source of concern that he sees echoed in surrounding communities.
“We have to do something to bring people back to small towns,” Liepold said, stating that economic development in rural areas is something he sees of great importance, and hopes that community members are willing to discuss this.
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“My main interest, though, is always going to be with the people in [District] 21B,” Liepold said. “They bring to me what they want to see and what they need … I’ll put my efforts there.”
