East Twin Cities

Wayne Johnson, a political figure and candidate for governor in Minnesota, recently outlined his policy priorities and concerns about the state's economic landscape in a series of social media posts.

In a post dated September 7, 2025, Johnson described his vision for Minnesota if he were elected governor: "In a #perfectmn and I am #Governor I would. Support LEO and show I mean it Visit with Leaders of Commerce Find real solutions for hunger Reorg DEED Reorg MNDOE Turn MN into a place to brag about. Make our cities safe again Find real solutions to gun violence It can be done....."

On September 9, 2025, Johnson addressed employment trends and the impact of business decisions on workers: "Annual revisions of nonfarm payroll for year prior to March 2025 down 911k. This on same day 2 banks announce 244 layoffs due to merger. @MN_Chamber has been warning of issues. Making employees more expensive will incease the need for AI by employers. #letsworktogether." In this statement, Johnson referenced recent data showing that nonfarm payroll numbers had been revised downward by nearly one million jobs over the previous year, alongside news that two banks had announced layoffs following a merger.

Later that day, Johnson called for unity among political leaders: "We need political leaders more than ever that understand we need to work together. We need to put people over party with solutions that will work and not just sound good. Leaders make the hard decisions with an eye on the future, not the past. Experience is very helpful."

The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce has previously raised concerns about workforce challenges facing employers in the state, including labor shortages and increasing operational costs (https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/minnesota-business-benchmarks). These factors have contributed to ongoing discussions around automation and artificial intelligence as businesses seek ways to manage expenses.

Johnson's statements come amid ongoing debates over public safety policies in major Minnesota cities as well as efforts at state agencies like DEED (Department of Employment and Economic Development) and MNDOE (Minnesota Department of Education) to address evolving economic conditions.