Fadil Jama
From Ballotpedia
This page was current at the end of the individual's last campaign covered by Ballotpedia. Please contact us with any updates.
Fadil Jama (Republican Party) ran for election to the Minnesota House of Representatives to represent District 66A. He lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.
Jama completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Fadil Jama earned a high school diploma from Kuwait High School and a bachelor's degree from Capella University in 2020. His career experience includes working as a nurse.[1]
Elections
2024
See also: Minnesota House of Representatives elections, 2024
General election
General election for Minnesota House of Representatives District 66A
Incumbent Leigh Finke defeated Fadil Jama in the general election for Minnesota House of Representatives District 66A on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Leigh Finke (D) | 81.0 | 18,166 |
 | Fadil Jama (R)  | 18.6 | 4,180 | |
| Other/Write-in votes | 0.4 | 84 | ||
| Total votes: 22,430 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Democratic primary election
The Democratic primary election was canceled. Incumbent Leigh Finke advanced from the Democratic primary for Minnesota House of Representatives District 66A.
Republican primary election
The Republican primary election was canceled. Fadil Jama advanced from the Republican primary for Minnesota House of Representatives District 66A.
Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
- Jesse Smith (R)
Campaign finance
Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Jama in this election.
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Fadil Jama completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Jama's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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My name is Fadil Jama, and I am running for the Minnesota House of Representatives in District 66A. I migrated from Somalia to Minnesota in 2017, seeking better educational and professional opportunities. As a nurse who served on the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic and as the founder of a home care business, I have dedicated my life to serving our community. My experiences have equipped me with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our district.
- Empowering Education: I am committed to educational reform that ensures every child has access to quality education. I support school choice, making higher education more affordable, and strengthening federal student aid. Our children deserve the best start in life, and I will fight to ensure they get it.
- Health Care for All: Health care should be a right, not a privilege. I will work tirelessly to expand health care choices, improve Medicare and Medicaid services, and ensure that everyone in our district has access to affordable health care. I believe in a comprehensive approach that puts patients first and addresses the unique needs of our community.
- Community Safety and Justice: Our community’s safety is paramount. I will advocate for criminal justice reform to address overcriminalization, end civil asset forfeiture abuses, and reform anti-drug legislation. A fair and just legal system is essential for the well-being of our residents, and I will work to make this a reality.
I am deeply passionate about the following areas of public policy:
Education Reform: Ensuring that every child has access to quality education, supporting school choice, and making higher education more affordable.
Health Care: Expanding health care choices, improving Medicare and Medicaid services, and ensuring affordable insurance markets for comprehensive care.
Criminal Justice Reform: Addressing overcriminalization, ending civil asset forfeiture abuses, and reforming anti-drug legislation to ensure fair and just treatment for all individuals.
I look up to Nelson Mandela. His unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and reconciliation in the face of immense adversity is profoundly inspiring. I strive to emulate his dedication to making the world a better place and his ability to bring people together for a common cause.
I would recommend "The Road to Serfdom" by Friedrich Hayek. This book provides a thorough understanding of the dangers of government overreach and the importance of individual liberty, which aligns with my commitment to protecting personal freedoms and promoting limited government.
Integrity, transparency, and dedication are the most important characteristics for an elected official. Integrity ensures that the official is honest and ethical in their decision-making. Transparency allows for accountability and builds trust with constituents. Dedication ensures that the official is committed to serving the needs of their community.
I believe my qualities of empathy, integrity, and resilience would make me a successful officeholder. I genuinely care about the well-being of my constituents and am committed to serving their needs with honesty and dedication. My resilience helps me stay focused and determined, even in the face of challenges.
The core responsibilities for a state legislator include creating and passing laws that benefit the community, representing the interests and needs of constituents, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and providing oversight to government functions to ensure accountability and transparency.
I would like to leave a legacy of positive change and empowerment. I hope to be remembered as someone who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others, who fought for justice and equality, and who inspired future generations to engage in public service
My very first job was as a cashier at a local grocery store when I was 16 years old. I worked there for about two years. This experience taught me the value of hard work, customer service, and managing responsibilities.
My favorite book is "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee. The book's exploration of morality, justice, and the complexities of human behavior has deeply influenced my perspectives on social issues and the importance of standing up for what is right.
If I could be any fictional character, I would choose Atticus Finch from "To Kill a Mockingbird." His unwavering commitment to justice, his moral integrity, and his courage to stand up for what is right are qualities I deeply admire and strive to embody.
The last song that got stuck in my head was "Can You Hear the Music" by Has Zimmer. It’s a beautiful piece theme that captures a sense of hope and resilience, which resonates with my campaign’s message.
One of the significant struggles in my life has been adapting to a new culture and environment after migrating to the United States. It was challenging to navigate the cultural differences and establish a new life from scratch. However, this experience has also been incredibly enriching and has strengthened my resolve to help others in similar situations.
The ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature is one of mutual respect and collaboration. Both branches should work together to serve the best interests of the citizens, with open communication and a willingness to find common ground on key issues.
Minnesota's greatest challenges over the next decade include addressing healthcare access and affordability, improving educational outcomes, ensuring public safety, and managing the state's fiscal health. Additionally, environmental sustainability and adapting to technological changes will be significant areas of focus.
While previous experience in government or politics can be beneficial, it is not a necessity. What is more important is a deep understanding of the issues, a strong commitment to public service, and the ability to collaborate and build consensus. Fresh perspectives can also bring innovative solutions to longstanding problems.
Yes, it is highly beneficial to build relationships with other legislators. Strong relationships foster collaboration and make it easier to pass legislation that benefits the community. Understanding different perspectives and working together towards common goals is essential for effective governance
I admire Paul Wellstone for his ability to connect with constituents on a personal level. His approach to politics, focusing on grassroots movements and genuine concern for people, is something I aspire to emulate.
At this moment, my focus is entirely on serving the people of District 66A to the best of my ability. Future political ambitions are secondary to my commitment to my constituents.
One story that stands out is from a single mother in our district who struggled to access affordable healthcare for her child with special needs. Her resilience and determination to provide the best for her child, despite numerous obstacles, deeply moved me. It reinforced my commitment to fight for accessible and affordable healthcare for all families.
Why don't scientists trust atoms? Because they make up everything!
Yes, the legislature should have oversight over the use of emergency powers to ensure that they are used appropriately and not abused. This balance of power is crucial to maintaining democratic governance and protecting civil liberties.
The first bill I would introduce would be aimed at improving access to mental health services in our district. Mental health is a critical issue that affects many aspects of our community, and improving access to these services can significantly enhance the well-being of our residents.
I am particularly interested in the Health and Human Services Committee, the Education Policy Committee, and the Public Safety and Criminal Justice Reform Committee. These areas align closely with my campaign priorities and my professional background.
I believe in complete financial transparency and government accountability. Government officials should be held to the highest standards of integrity and openness. This ensures that taxpayer dollars are used effectively and that citizens have trust in their government.
A state ballot initiative process can be beneficial as it allows citizens to directly participate in the legislative process. However, it must be carefully designed to prevent misuse and ensure that initiatives are thoroughly vetted and based on sound policy.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
Campaign finance summary
Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.
See also
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate Minnesota House of Representatives District 66A |
Personal |
Footnotes
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on July 1, 2024
Current members of the Minnesota House of Representatives
Leadership
Speaker of the House:Lisa Demuth
Majority Leader:Harry Niska
Representatives
District 1A
John Burkel (R)
District 1B
Steve Gander (R)
District 2A
Bidal Duran (R)
District 2B
Matt Bliss (R)
District 3A
Roger Skraba (R)
District 3B
District 4A
Heather Keeler (D)
District 4B
Jim Joy (R)
District 5A
Krista Knudsen (R)
District 5B
Mike Wiener (R)
District 6A
Ben Davis (R)
District 6B
Josh Heintzeman (R)
District 7A
Spencer Igo (R)
District 7B
Cal Warwas (R)
District 8A
Pete Johnson (D)
District 8B
Alicia Kozlowski (D)
District 9A
Jeff Backer (R)
District 9B
Tom Murphy (R)
District 10A
Ron Kresha (R)
District 10B
Isaac Schultz (R)
District 11A
Jeff Dotseth (R)
District 11B
Nathan Nelson (R)
District 12A
Paul Anderson (R)
District 12B
Mary Franson (R)
District 13A
Lisa Demuth (R)
District 13B
Tim O'Driscoll (R)
District 14A
Bernie Perryman (R)
District 14B
Dan Wolgamott (D)
District 15A
Chris Swedzinski (R)
District 15B
Paul Torkelson (R)
District 16A
District 16B
Dave Baker (R)
District 17A
Dawn Gillman (R)
District 17B
Bobbie Harder (R)
District 18A
Erica Schwartz (R)
District 18B
Luke Frederick (D)
District 19A
Keith Allen (R)
District 19B
Tom Sexton (R)
District 20A
Pam Altendorf (R)
District 20B
Steven Jacob (R)
District 21A
Joe Schomacker (R)
District 21B
Marj Fogelman (R)
District 22A
Bjorn Olson (R)
District 22B
Terry Stier (R)
District 23A
Peggy Bennett (R)
District 23B
Patricia Mueller (R)
District 24A
Duane Quam (R)
District 24B
Tina Liebling (D)
District 25A
Kim Hicks (D)
District 25B
Andy Smith (D)
District 26A
Aaron Repinski (R)
District 26B
Greg Davids (R)
District 27A
Shane Mekeland (R)
District 27B
Bryan Lawrence (R)
District 28A
James Gordon (R)
District 28B
Max Rymer (R)
District 29A
Joe McDonald (R)
District 29B
Marion Rarick (R)
District 30A
Walter Hudson (R)
District 30B
Paul Novotny (R)
District 31A
Harry Niska (R)
District 31B
Peggy Scott (R)
District 32A
Nolan West (R)
District 32B
Matt Norris (D)
District 33A
Patti Anderson (R)
District 33B
Josiah Hill (D)
District 34A
Danny Nadeau (R)
District 34B
Xp Lee (D)
District 35A
Zack Stephenson (D)
District 35B
Kari Rehrauer (D)
District 36A
Elliott Engen (R)
District 36B
Brion Curran (D)
District 37A
Kristin Robbins (R)
District 37B
Kristin Bahner (D)
District 38A
Huldah Hiltsley (D)
District 38B
Samantha Vang (D)
District 39A
Erin Koegel (D)
District 39B
Sandra Feist (D)
District 40A
Kelly Moller (D)
District 40B
David Gottfried (D)
District 41A
Wayne Johnson (R)
District 41B
Tom Dippel (R)
District 42A
Ned Carroll (D)
District 42B
Ginny Klevorn (D)
District 43A
Cedrick Frazier (D)
District 43B
Mike Freiberg (D)
District 44A
Peter Fischer (D)
District 44B
Leon Lillie (D)
District 45A
Andrew Myers (R)
District 45B
Patty Acomb (D)
District 46A
Larry Kraft (D)
District 46B
Cheryl Youakim (D)
District 47A
District 47B
Ethan Cha (D)
District 48A
Jim Nash (R)
District 48B
Lucille Rehm (D)
District 49A
Alex Falconer (D)
District 49B
District 50A
Julie Greene (D)
District 50B
Steve Elkins (D)
District 51A
Michael Howard (D)
District 51B
Nathan Coulter (D)
District 52A
Liz Reyer (D)
District 52B
Bianca Virnig (D)
District 53A
Mary Clardy (D)
District 53B
Rick Hansen (D)
District 54A
Brad Tabke (D)
District 54B
Ben Bakeberg (R)
District 55A
Jessica Hanson (D)
District 55B
Kaela Berg (D)
District 56A
Robert Bierman (D)
District 56B
John Huot (D)
District 57A
Jon Koznick (R)
District 57B
Jeff Witte (R)
District 58A
Kristi Pursell (D)
District 58B
Drew Roach (R)
District 59A
Fue Lee (D)
District 59B
Esther Agbaje (D)
District 60A
Sydney Jordan (D)
District 60B
Mohamud Noor (D)
District 61A
Katie Jones (D)
District 61B
Jamie Long (D)
District 62A
Aisha Gomez (D)
District 62B
Anquam Mahamoud (D)
District 63A
District 63B
Emma Greenman (D)
District 64A
Kaohly Her (D)
District 64B
Dave Pinto (D)
District 65A
Samakab Hussein (D)
District 65B
District 66A
Leigh Finke (D)
District 66B
Athena Hollins (D)
District 67A
Liz Lee (D)
District 67B
Jay Xiong (D)
Republican Party (67)
Democratic Party (67)
