CNBC study ranks Minnesota sixth in the nation based on 128 indicators

[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota is ranked sixth in the nation for business, according to a recent CNBC study. Minnesota’s ranking is based on 128 key indicators in 10 categories of competitiveness, including workforce, infrastructure, economy, quality of life, and business friendliness. Minnesota was also recently ranked the best state for independent retailers, according to a B2B Reviews study, and earlier this week, the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport was named the best U.S. airport in 2024 by Travel + Leisure.

“These rankings are a testament to our focus on investing in key areas that make our businesses and economy strong: job training, workforce development, child care, and broadband access,” said Governor Walz. “Businesses in top industries, from health care to renewable energy and manufacturing, understand the benefits of investing and growing in Minnesota.”

This ranking comes as the Governor recently celebrated a $24 million investment in job training and economic development programs. Governor Walz also recently announced an over $12 million investment to train workers for high-demand employment.

Businesses in high-growth industries choose to invest in Minnesota. In June, Minnesota secured $213 million to finance Bioforge Marshall LLC, a 500,000-square-foot sustainable biomanufacturing facility in Marshall, Minnesota. In May, Governor Walz celebrated Polar Semiconductor’s historic $525 million investment to expand their Bloomington facility. Last winter, the Governor celebrated Mayo Clinic’s $5 billion expansion in downtown Rochester.

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SAN JUAN, PR – On July 12, 2024, Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon was chosen by his colleagues nationwide as President of the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS). He was sworn-in at the conclusion of the 2024 NASS Summer Conference in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Founded in 1904, NASS is the nation’s oldest nonpartisan professional organization for public officials. Membership is open to the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and all U.S. Territories.

“NASS is a national treasure – a mature association intended to elevate the work that Secretaries of State do, to share best practices, to learn from one another, to hear from experts – and maybe most importantly to gain perspective,” said Secretary Simon. “NASS connects Secretaries and their staff members across state lines, across party lines, and across lines of difference. I look forward to continuing the tradition of collaboration, unity, and bipartisanship.”  

His term as President will run until the conclusion of the 2025 NASS Summer Conference.  

Secretary Simon will also serve as the co-chair of the NASS 2024-2025 Cybersecurity Committee.

ST. LOUIS PARK – In a groundbreaking moment on Tuesday, November 7th, 2023, St. Louis Park, Minnesota, made history by electing Nadia Mohamed as its new mayor. This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone in American politics, as Mohamed becomes the first Somali-American to be elected as a mayor in the United States. With an impressive 59% of the votes, Mohamed emerged victorious over her opponent, Dale A. Anderson, in the municipal general election.

Background:

Nadia Mohamed’s journey to the mayoral office is a testament to her dedication and commitment to public service. A familiar face in St. Louis Park, Mohamed previously served as the At Large B Council Member, earning the trust and support of the community. Her decision to run for mayor was met with enthusiasm and excitement, setting the stage for a historic campaign.

Historic Election:

The election results, with Mohamed securing 59% of the votes, reflect the widespread endorsement of her candidacy by the residents of St. Louis Park. This resounding victory not only solidifies Mohamed’s place in history but also underscores the community’s embrace of diversity and inclusivity.

Nadia Mohamed’s Vision:

As the newly elected mayor, Nadia Mohamed brings a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience to the position. Throughout her campaign, she emphasized the importance of community engagement, economic development, and creating an inclusive environment for all residents. Mohamed’s vision for St. Louis Park is rooted in unity, equity, and progress.

Succession and Mayor Jake Spano’s Legacy:

Nadia Mohamed steps into the mayoral role to succeed Mayor Jake Spano, who served the community with dedication and distinction. Mayor Spano’s legacy sets a high standard for leadership in St. Louis Park, and Mohamed has expressed her commitment to building upon the progress made under his tenure.

Community Response:

The response to Nadia Mohamed’s historic victory has been overwhelmingly positive. Members of the Somali-American community, as well as residents from diverse backgrounds, celebrate this momentous occasion as a symbol of progress and representation in American politics. Mohamed’s win not only breaks barriers but also inspires a new generation of leaders to pursue public service.

Looking Ahead:

As Mayor-elect Nadia Mohamed prepares to assume office, the city of St. Louis Park anticipates a future marked by collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity. Mohamed’s historic election serves as a beacon of hope and an example of the American dream in action.

Nadia Mohamed’s election as the first Somali-American mayor in the United States is a milestone that transcends local politics. It is a moment of pride, progress, and inspiration for communities across the nation. As St. Louis Park embraces a new era of leadership, Mohamed’s journey stands as a testament to the possibilities that arise when diverse voices are elevated and given the opportunity to lead.

Photos credit: Abdirahman Mukhtar – Tusmo Times