WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) has announced the introduction of two pieces of legislation to honor the life and legacy of the late U.S. Congressman Jim Hagedorn, who served as the U.S. Representative for the First District from 2019 until his death from stage IV kidney cancer in 2022.

Finstad was elected in August to fill out the remainder of Hagedorn’s term, and in November was elected to a full term representing the first district.

The first would rename the post office in Blue Earth, Minnesota after Hagedorn, who was born in Blue Earth and is where he lived during his time in Congress. It was Blue Earth and southern Minnesota that Hagedorn truly loved and chose to make his home.

JIm Hagedorn was the son of former U.S. Rep. Tom Hagedorn, who served in Congress from 1975 to 1983 representing Minnesota’s 2nd District, which includes much of the territory covered by today’s 1st District. He attended schools in McLean, Virginia, while his father served in Congress, and graduated from George Mason University in 1993.

Hagedorn served as a legislative aide to U.S. Representative Arlan Stangeland from 1984 to 1991.[6] He then worked in the United States Department of the Treasury as director for legislative and public affairs for the Financial Management Service from 1991 to 1998 and as congressional affairs officer for the Bureau of Engraving and Printing until 2009. In 2010 he began his quest for election in the First District.

He won the Republican nomination twice, in 2014 and 2016, losing both times to DFLer Rep. Tim Walz. He won election in 2018 and 2020.

“Jim was a true public servant, a commonsense conservative with an unparalleled work ethic,” said Congressman Finstad. “He fought tirelessly for the people of Minnesota’s First District and worked every day to represent the southern Minnesota views and values of his constituents, supporting the district’s agriculture, small businesses, transportation, and world-class healthcare system. Jim loved few things more than his Minnesota roots, and I am proud to honor him by preserving his legacy in the Blue Earth community.”

Congressman Finstad introduced the legislation and is joined by six members of the Minnesota delegation.

“Jim was a dear friend, a treasured colleague and a lifelong servant to the people of Minnesota,” said Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06). “His joyful presence is missed in our home state and in the halls of Congress. Today, we join Representative Finstad’s effort to recognize Jim by renaming his hometown post office in Blue Earth.”

“Jim was a dear friend who wanted nothing more than to represent the people of Minnesota’s First District in Congress. He did so every day with an unwavering passion and unshakable joy that brightened the halls of Congress, bringing the best of Blue Earth to Washington,” said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07). “He is deeply missed and I am glad we are able to memorialize his life in the community he so dearly loved.”

“Jim was a dear friend who wanted nothing more than to represent the people of Minnesota’s First Congressional District in Congress, said Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08). “I got to see Jim’s hard-work and passion for southern Minnesota up close while serving with him on the Small Business Committee. I am proud to join this legislation to rename the Blue Earth Post Office in Jim’s honor so many generations will remember his legacy.”

“Jim was a fierce advocate for southern Minnesota who made a lasting impact on our state and his constituents. I’m glad to join Rep. Finstad and the rest of the Minnesota delegation to introduce this legislation and commemorate Jim’s service to our country,” said Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02).

“Jim and I had different political views but a respectful friendship and a shared love for Minnesota and our country,” said Congressman Dean Phillips (MN-03). “I thank Representative Finstad for leading this fitting tribute and look forward to working together for our state in a spirit that honors Jim’s memory.”

“Public service played a prominent role in Congressman Hagedorn’s life,” said Congresswoman Betsy McCollum (MN-04), Dean of the Minnesota delegation. “Renaming the Blue Earth post office in his honor is a way for the community to remember him and for us to pay tribute to our late colleague.”

Additionally,Finstad re-introduced the American Workforce Empowerment Act, which was one of Congressman Hagedorn’s top legislative priorities during his time in office. The bill would allow 529 savings accounts to be used for non-degree technical training certificate programs, apprenticeships, tools, and any tests that are required to obtain and maintain certifications. The bill was introduced by Finstad with 26 original cosponsors.

“As I talk with employers in the district, I hear repeatedly about the increased need for skilled labor, said Finstad. The American Workforce Empowerment Act will reduce the cost of obtaining advanced technical certifications, while also helping to grow the workforce.

“I am proud to honor Jim by re-introducing this important legislation, which will open job opportunities for many individuals by allowing 529 savings plans to be used for non-degree technical training certificate programs and apprenticeships, giving them the same access to vocational training as those enrolled in degree programs.”