Endorsements

“I’m excited to endorse Tom Olsen to continue his service on the Minneapolis Park Board. Tom has been one of the strongest advocates to maintain free youth programming in our parks during a time when so many of our youth are struggling and need that stability. I am so grateful to Tom for his passion around making our parks a place for everyone, and I’m looking forward to casting my vote for him this fall!”

Ilhan Omar, Congresswoman MN CD-5

Commissioner Olsen was a steadfast supporter of LIUNA during their just and difficult strike. The MPRB needs more Commissioners like him, who support our workers during the hard times, not just when it’s easy.

Sydney Jordan, State Representative 60A

Commissioner Olsen has been a dedicated advocate for the new Cedar-Riverside Recreation Center. This is a critical investment in my community and he has been an important partner as we work to make it a reality. I know he will continue to serve effectively on the MPRB.

Mohamud Noor, State Representative 60B

I’ve seen firsthand how Tom has fought for justice and our environment. I know he will continue to serve as a great At Large Commissioner for us all!

Scott Dibble, State Senator District 61

“Tom has a vision to ensure parks provide amenities for all of our Minneapolis residents. I am proud to endorse him for reelection and know he will continue to be an outstanding Park Board member.”

Jamie Long, State Representative 61A and DFL Floor Leader

I am confident that Tom will continue to serve as an effective and committed At Large Commissioner. His focus on climate action and youth development will ensure the future quality of our parks for all.

Katie Cashman, Minneapolis City Council Member Ward 7

Tom made a great addition to the Park Board. His extensive government experience has made him a great intergovernmental partner and an effective steward of our wonderful park system.

Fue Lee, State Representative 59A

Tom is a thoughtful and committed climate advocate who has consistently fought for the future of our environment at the Park Board. We need leaders like him who are willing to stand up for transformative climate initiatives. I happily support him for reelection. 

Katie Jones, State Representative 61B

“Tom’s intricate and nuanced understanding of the issues where the MPRB and Hennepin County intersect has been invaluable. I highly value our partnership and strongly support his reelection.

Marion Greene, Hennepin County Commissioner District 3

Tom is a powerful advocate for youth voices and transit in our parks. His legislative knowledge has been incredibly important to our recent funding successes.

Becky Alper, MPRB Commissioner

Tom Olsen has proven he is a progressive Commissioner who prioritizes people over special interests. We've been strong partners in our first terms as we work to advance the needs of our shared constituencies. I'm excited to support Tom to keep this partnership going for four more years!

— Aurin Chowdhury, Minneapolis City Council Member Ward 12

Our parks are one of our greatest assets in Minneapolis, and our parks should be for everyone. That’s why I’m endorsing Tom Olsen for his re-election to park board. I’ve seen Tom lead on issues of accessibility, sustainability, workers rights, and more. I’m excited to continue to partner to ensure our next generation of Minneapolis residents has access to a thriving park system.

Samantha Sencer-Mura, State Representative 63A

“Tom has repeatedly stood up for my Southside community and the shared values and priorities of residents across Minneapolis. He has been one of my most consistent partners on the park board, and I strongly support him for reelection.”

Aisha Gomez, State Representative 62A

Our parks are the heart and lungs of Minneapolis; Tom fights for inclusion, accessibility and fairness for park users and our urban greenspace’s ability to counteract climate change. In a time of turmoil, he’s a mature, resolute advocate for the beauty in our midst.

David Brauer, Minneapolis Resident

I’m proud to support Commissioner Olsen with my first choice vote! He has a strong vision for the continued stewardship of our park system, balanced with creative ideas that’ll move us forward. As a Park Board veteran, I recognize that Tom has the right skills and temperament to continue to serve our parks effectively!

Tom Nordyke, Former MPRB Board President

Tom Olsen has been a great addition to the Minneapolis Park Board in his first term. He is a strong voice for climate, equity and accessibility.

Tom will continue to work for better parks for everyone in Minneapolis, including historically underinvested neighborhoods and for residents who have faced barriers in their ability to enjoy our parks system. I’m proud to support him for a second term.

— Laura Mitchell, Our Streets MN Board President

“I'm proud to support Commissioner Tom Olsen for reelection! He has been a great advocate for youth investments and climate action. With his intergovernmental expertise, I know he'll continue to serve our city effectively!”

Zaynab Mohamed, State Senator District 63

Tom has proven that he has the right experience to govern effectively on the Park Board. His focus on climate and environmental issues will ensure that our city is sustainable for future generations.

Chris Meyer, Former MPRB Commissioner