Amanda Hemmingsen-Jaeger

Amanda Hemmingsen-Jaeger is a member of the Minnesota State Senate, representing District 47 as a member of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (DFL). She has been serving in this capacity since her election in a special election held in November 2025. Hemmingsen-Jaeger’s district encompasses parts of the eastern Twin Cities metropolitan area, including the cities of Woodbury and Maplewood, along with portions of Ramsey and Washington Counties. Prior to her tenure in the Senate, she was elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2022, where she focused on various policy areas including children and families, climate and energy, health, and workforce development.

Early life and career

Amanda Hemmingsen-Jaeger was raised in Wabasha, Minnesota, where she attended local public schools. Her academic journey led her to the University of Minnesota, where she earned a bachelor's degree in cell biology and development. Following this, she pursued further education at Iowa State University, obtaining a master's degree in genetics. Hemmingsen-Jaeger continued her studies at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, graduating in 2016 with a master's degree in science, technology, and environmental policy.

Hemmingsen-Jaeger began her professional career as a forensic scientist with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, a role she held from 2011 to 2020. Her work in this position provided her with a strong foundation in scientific analysis and public safety. Following her tenure as a forensic scientist, she transitioned to roles within the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, where she served as a business analyst for Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) and later as a legislative analyst. Additionally, she worked as a legislative and policy analyst for the Minnesota Department of Human Services, focusing on various initiatives that impacted public welfare.

In addition to her professional roles, Hemmingsen-Jaeger has been actively involved in state councils and committees. She served on the Metropolitan Council advisory committee for the Gold Line, which is a transit project aimed at improving transportation in the region. Furthermore, she was a member of the Woodbury for Justice and Equality commission, reflecting her commitment to community engagement and social equity.

Legislative service

Hemmingsen-Jaeger’s political career began with her election to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2022. She entered the race following redistricting and the decision of two-term DFL incumbent Steve Sandell not to seek reelection. Her election to the House marked her first foray into elected office, where she quickly became involved in several key committees. During her time in the House, she served on the Children and Families Finance and Policy, Climate and Energy Finance and Policy, Health Finance and Policy, and Workforce Development Finance and Policy Committees. These roles allowed her to contribute to discussions and legislation that addressed critical issues affecting her constituents and the state as a whole.

In November 2025, Hemmingsen-Jaeger was elected to the Minnesota Senate in a special election to fill the vacancy left by Nicole Mitchell, who resigned following a conviction on burglary charges. This transition from the House to the Senate marked a significant step in her political career, allowing her to further influence policy at the state level. As a senator, she continues to focus on the same areas of interest that defined her earlier legislative work, emphasizing her commitment to addressing the needs of families, public health, and environmental sustainability.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Minnesota Senate representing District 47, Amanda Hemmingsen-Jaeger is positioned to address a variety of policy issues that are pertinent to her constituents. The district, which includes parts of the eastern Twin Cities metropolitan area, is characterized by a diverse population and a range of urban and suburban challenges. Hemmingsen-Jaeger’s legislative priorities reflect the needs of her district, particularly in areas such as children and family services, climate change, health care, and workforce development.

Her work on the Children and Families Finance and Policy Committee underscores her commitment to supporting families and children in her district. This committee focuses on legislation that impacts child welfare, education, and family support services, all of which are critical to the well-being of constituents in District 47. Additionally, her involvement in the Climate and Energy Finance and Policy Committee highlights her dedication to addressing environmental issues and promoting sustainable practices within the state. This is particularly relevant in the context of Minnesota's broader goals for reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources.

In the realm of health care, Hemmingsen-Jaeger’s participation in the Health Finance and Policy Committee allows her to engage with issues related to public health access, affordability, and quality of care. This focus is essential in a state that prioritizes health outcomes for its residents. Furthermore, her role on the Workforce Development Finance and Policy Committee reflects her understanding of the importance of economic opportunity and job creation, particularly in a rapidly changing job market.

Hemmingsen-Jaeger resides in Woodbury, Minnesota, with her spouse and their two children. Her personal experiences as a parent and community member inform her legislative priorities and enhance her connection to the constituents she serves. Through her work in the Minnesota Senate, she continues to advocate for policies that aim to improve the quality of life for families and individuals in her district and across the state.