Hi, I’m Heather Holmes. I’m a mom, a scientist, a former school board member, and a proud resident of Byron. I’m running for the Minnesota House because I’m tired of seeing rural communities like ours treated like an afterthought while the well-connected get all the attention.

I grew up along the shores of Lake Superior in northern Wisconsin, and I’ve called southeastern Minnesota home since 2006. I’ve spent nearly two decades working in scientific research—environmental, agricultural, and medical—and that work taught me how to ask the right questions, follow the facts, and solve problems that actually matter in people’s daily lives.

In 2022, I was elected to the Byron School Board, where I helped navigate tough budget decisions, advocate for mental health support in schools, and pushed back against state policies that would mean extra costs to local districts. I know what it means to be held accountable by your neighbors—and how frustrating it is when the state makes big promises but doesn’t send the resources to back them up.

At home, my husband Amos serves as a volunteer firefighter here in Byron. Together we’re raising our child, Jay, and wrangling a household that includes a tortoise named Yoda and a couple of tree frogs. Our family is grounded in public service—whether it’s at the fire hall, the school board, or showing up to help a neighbor. Serving the community isn’t just a job — it’s who we are.

I’m running to bring that same commitment to service, common sense, and community to the Capitol. This isn’t about chasing headlines or climbing a political ladder—it’s about showing up, doing the work, and making sure the people of District 24A have a voice that actually reflects who we are.

Together, we can make sure our towns have the resources, respect, and representation we deserve.