Economic Club of Minnesota
The Economic Club of Minnesota’s mission is to provide a world-class, non-partisan forum for national and international leaders in business and public policy, to discuss ideas that affect how Minnesota can better compete in the global economy.
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Gov. Michael S. Barr
10/17/2025
Gov. Michael S. Barr
On October 9, 2025, Federal Reserve Governor Michael S. Barr took the stage at the Economic Club of Minnesota’s luncheon, to discuss the U.S. economy amid rising inflation and policy challenges. In his speech, “The Economic Outlook and Monetary Policy,” Barr highlighted how recent tariffs have driven inflation up, with the PCE index hitting 2.7% in August and core PCE nearing 3%. These pressures, he warned, could push inflation above 3% by year-end, complicating the Fed’s 2% target. Barr gave a personal nod to his Minnesota roots by sharing that his grandmother’s family ran a clothing store in Eveleth during the 1906 iron ore boom. In a candid Q&A with Minneapolis Fed President Neel Kashkari, Barr addressed the Fed’s delicate balancing act between curbing inflation and supporting a softening labor market. With unemployment creeping up and consumer spending showing a split between robust high-income households and struggling lower-wage workers, he urged caution on further rate cuts after September’s 25-basis-point reduction. The looming threat of a government shutdown added to the uncertainty, though Barr noted its economic impact remains unclear. Governor Barr was especially engaged with the students in the audience and discussed his journey and important mentors he relied on to advance in his career.
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Trade & Tariff Tales
10/10/2025
Trade & Tariff Tales
The Economic Club of Minnesota (ECOM) wasted no time diving into the pressing economic conversations that shape our global landscape. On Thursday, September 25, 2025, the Club launched its 2025-2026 season with “Trade and Tariff Tales,” a timely forum that unraveled the complexities of international trade policies amid a backdrop of escalating U.S.-China tensions, supply chain disruptions, and the ever-present shadow of protectionism. The event drew a crowd of over 200 business leaders, policymakers, young professionals, and students, eager to dissect how tariffs aren’t just headlines but real forces rippling through Minnesota’s economy from manufacturing floors to farm fields. Entrepreneur, Beth Benike, of Busy Baby, kicked off the luncheon event by telling the story of her journey as inventor and business owner, and how she is navigating the tariffs. Drawing on ECOM’s storied legacy of non-partisan discourse, “Trade and Tariff Tales” featured a powerhouse lineup of panelists from valuable U.S. trading partners who blended storytelling with hard data. Sri Zaheer, Dean Emerita of the Carlson School at the University of Minnesota moderated the discussion with Consuls General Beth Richardson, Canada, Richard Hyde, U.K., and Alejandra Bologna, Mexico
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Alberto Musalem
05/30/2025
Alberto Musalem
On May 20, 2025, St. Louis Federal Reserve President Alberto Musalem delivered a compelling speech titled “Economic Conditions and Monetary Policy” at the Economic Club of Minnesota in Minneapolis. Addressing a diverse audience of business leaders, policymakers, and community members, Musalem shared his insights on the U.S. economic outlook and the implications for monetary policy. His visit included a moderated Q&A session, fostering engaging discussions on pressing economic issues. Musalem highlighted the resilience of the U.S. economy, noting a strong labor market and supportive financial conditions despite recent tightening in some sectors. He cautioned that higher tariffs could exert inflationary pressure in the near term while potentially dampening economic activity. Emphasizing the Federal Reserve’s commitment to price stability, he suggested that the current modestly restrictive monetary policy remains appropriate, especially if trade tensions de-escalate, allowing inflation to align with the Fed’s 2% target. However, he warned that persistent inflation could necessitate prioritizing price stability over other goals if public expectations shift.
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Zeke Hernandez
04/18/2025
Zeke Hernandez
On April 10, 2025, the Economic Club of Minnesota hosted Professor Exequiel "Zeke" Hernandez from The Wharton School for a compelling discussion on the economic impact of immigration. Known for his extensive research on global networks and the movement of people, ideas, and businesses, Professor Hernandez provided valuable insights into how immigration influences economic prosperity. For those interested in exploring Professor Hernandez's work further, his book, The Truth About Immigration, delves deeper into the topics discussed and offers a comprehensive look at how immigration shapes economic and social systems.
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Sheletta Brundidge
04/02/2025
Sheletta Brundidge
Sheletta Brundidge, an award-winning media personality, author, and autism advocate, is making waves in the conversation about neurodiversity in the workplace. Her recent podcast episode on autism workers is an eye-opener for businesses, parents, and individuals on the spectrum, highlighting the need for inclusion and support. Championing Autism Awareness in the Workplace Brundidge, a mother of three autistic children, knows firsthand the challenges and triumphs that come with navigating a neurodiverse world. In her podcast, she explores the unique strengths that autistic employees bring to the workforce—sharp focus, attention to detail, and innovative problem-solving skills. However, she also sheds light on the barriers that often prevent them from thriving in traditional work environments. Breaking Stereotypes and Building Opportunities One of the most powerful aspects of Brundidge’s podcast is its ability to challenge misconceptions. Too often, autistic individuals are overlooked for jobs due to outdated stereotypes. But as Brundidge points out, many companies, especially in tech, finance, and creative industries—are discovering the immense value of hiring neurodiverse employees. A Call to Action for Employers Brundidge doesn’t just talk about problems—she offers solutions. She encourages businesses to rethink their hiring practices, offer training on neurodiversity, and how to foster an inclusive culture. The message is clear: when autistic workers are given the right support, they don’t just succeed, they excel. Why You Should Listen Whether you're an employer looking to build a more inclusive team, an autistic individual seeking workplace advice, or an advocate for neurodiversity, this podcast is a must-listen. Brundidge’s candid, insightful discussion makes it clear that hiring autistic workers isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a smart business move.
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Kevin Brady
03/21/2025
Kevin Brady
The Economic Club of Minnesota celebrated the annual Bill Frenzel Champion of Free Trade Award event on March 12, 2025. Devry Boughner Vorwerk, chair of the award advisory committee, presented the award to the Honorable Kevin Brady, former congressman and former Chairman of the Joint Ways and Means Committee. Chairman Brady was chosen based on his dedication and consistent advocacy and leadership in advancing policies that promote free trade and economic growth. The audience was fortunate to hear perspectives on trade agreements, tax, and tariffs during a fireside chat between Chairman Brady and the Honorable Erik Paulsen, former congressman from Minnesota. Some key quotes were, “America first does not mean America alone, and America needs to get back on the trade field.” Chairman Brady’s comments were very timely!
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Brian Sikes
03/03/2025
Brian Sikes
The Economic Club of Minnesota kicked off the second half of the 2024-2025 season on Wednesday, February 26th. The audience was treated to a riveting conversation between Brian Sikes, Chairman, President and CEO of Cargill and Sri Zaheer, Dean Emerita, Carlson School of Management. Brian offered some wonderful advice to students and young professionals in attendance. “Do your job really, really, well, there are no shortcuts, there are no magic pills that you can take, treat people really, really well, and just say yes.” In addition to advice, Mr. Sikes discussed some topics that are top of mind, free trade and tariffs. Everyone in attendance was grateful to be present for this event!
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Major Garrett
12/30/2024
Major Garrett
On December 18, 2024, Major Garrett, Chief Political Correspondent, CBS News, returned to the stage at the Economic Club of Minnesota. Major provided the audience with an interesting historical perspective by comparing two non-consecutive seated Presidents, Grover Cleveland and Donald Trump. While President Grover Cleveland’s term was during the Gilded Age, President Trump’s terms are both happening during the Digital Age. Both are animated by massive economic shocks and high expectations, both internally and externally. Major has vast experience and knowledge from covering 5 presidents in his career. He concluded his remarks, leaving the audience with this thought, “History tells us, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. One thing we know, the Gilded Age and the Digital Age have a lot to tell us about where we’re headed.” The Honorable Tim Penny moderated Q & A with Major. Tim posed a few questions about Major’s books, the recent presidential election, the transition, and the change in candidates from Biden to Harris. Major addressed some poignant questions from the audience. It’s worth taking the time to listen to or watch the recording of this event!
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America’s Fiscal Challenges
12/03/2024
America’s Fiscal Challenges
On Thursday, November 21st, the Economic Club of Minnesota welcomed Maya MacGuineas, President of The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget in a discussion with Chris Farrell, Marketplace Senior Economics Contributor at American Public Media. The audience was treated to an insightful and entertaining discussion. Maya talked about how the burning issues like Medicare and Social Security reforms are crucial to getting the fiscal house in order in the U.S. Maya’s assertion is that voters do not connect to the big issues on a visceral level, therefore, the can is getting kicked down the road. Chris Farrell and audience members alike asked wonderful questions. It’s worth watching or listening to the podcast version of this great conversation.
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Economic Ecosystem of MN Healthcare
10/22/2024
Economic Ecosystem of MN Healthcare
The healthcare ecosystem in Minnesota is a dynamic and complex network that influences the well-being of its residents and impacts the state’s economic landscape. As one of the most health-conscious states in the nation, Minnesota has long been a leader in healthcare innovation, access, and quality. On October 9, 2024, the Economic Club of Minnesota hosted a discussion centered on the Economic Ecosystem of Minnesota Healthcare. The discussion featured Andrea Walsh, President and CEO of HealthPartners and Dr. Rahul Koranne, President and CEO of Minnesota Hospital Association and was moderated by retired EVP UnitedHealth Group; Director & Secretary, Economic Club of Minnesota, Jeannine Rivet. The conversation was informative and robust. Andrea Walsh emphasized the current state of healthcare versus actual wellness. Dr. Koranne talked about how community infrastructure is critical to being able to release patients from hospitals to either home or a care facility. Boarding patients in hospitals is not a sustainable model. Another discussion point was staffing. The nursing shortage that was exacerbated during and following the COVID pandemic has been eased slightly. Dr. Koranne explained that the shortage of Primary Care Physicians and Pediatricians is a challenge facing the state of Minnesota.
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Michael Sheldrick
09/23/2024
Michael Sheldrick
The Economic Club of Minnesota kicked off the 2025-2026 season on September 12, 2024, with a compelling discussion between Michael Sheldrick and Angelina Amérigo. Michael joined us as a stop on his worldwide book tour for his new book From Ideas to Impact. Michael did a wonderful job explaining policy entrepreneurism and giving the audience some solid takeaways and a call to action. No matter the industry or location of the respective companies in the room, Michael provided relevant information for each and every person to take back to their workplace or school. He held the attention of everyone in attendance, especially with his stories. We are all saying to ourselves, “We are not going away, we’ll give it a go…we are not going away, we’ll give it a go.”
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Austan Goolsbee
05/17/2024
Austan Goolsbee
The Economic Club of Minnesota concluded the 2023-2024 season on May 10th with a lively conversation between Austan Goolsbee, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and Steve Liesman, Senior Economics Reporter for CNBC. One of the focal points of the interview was the examination of various economic indicators and what they signify for the overall health of the economy. Goolsbee and Liesman dissected metrics such as GDP growth, employment figures, inflation rates, and consumer spending, providing nuanced interpretations of their implications. The interview with Austan Goolsbee and Steve Liesman on CNBC provided a compelling glimpse into the multifaceted world of economic analysis and policymaking. Through their insightful commentary and probing questions, they illuminated key trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the global economy. The conversation also ventured into the realm of economic policy, with Goolsbee and Liesman offering insights into the efficacy of current policies and the challenges facing policymakers. They analyzed the impact of fiscal stimulus measures, monetary policy decisions, and regulatory changes on economic outcomes.
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Alan Gogbashian
05/02/2024
Alan Gogbashian
Everyone in the Economic Club of Minnesota audience felt so fortunate to hear Consul General, Alan Gogbashian’s perspectives on UK/US trade, the Great Lakes Shipping Corridor, leadership, and business on April 23rd. Consul Gogbashian spent time reviewing his past 4 years in his post at the British Consulate-General Chicago. His next post has not yet been revealed publicly. Tom Hauser, Senior Political Reporter for 5 Eyewitness news moderated an engaging discussion on BREXIT, trade, protectionism, and future opportunities such as Memorandum of Understanding in many business verticals, most especially Medical Alley.
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Senator Pat Toomey
03/25/2024
Senator Pat Toomey
Devry Boughner Vorwerk presented Senator Pat Toomey with the 2023 Bill Frenzel Champion of Free Trade award on Tuesday, March 19, 2024. The audience was treated to a lively conversation between former Senator Toomey and former Congressman Mark Kennedy. Toomey aptly explained how protectionism and nativism will ultimately undermine prosperity in the United States. The award recognizes national and international leaders who have made significant contributions to the expansion of international trade. The award highlights the importance of free trade for global prosperity and security. Pat Toomey was chosen due to his consistent advocacy and leadership in advancing policies that promote free trade and economic growth.
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Ginni Rometty
02/22/2024
Ginni Rometty
On February 12th, the Economic Club of Minnesota was fortunate to hear Ginni Rometty in conversation with Neel Kashkari. Ginni shared wisdom on life, career, leadership, and business. Neel and Ginni covered multiple topics, including workforce development, work from home, addressing conflict, and the subject of generative AI. The audience was fascinated. Her book, Good Power, is worth reading.
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Navigating U.S. – China Strategic Competition
01/09/2024
Navigating U.S. – China Strategic Competition
Hundreds of members, sponsors and guests of the Economic Club of Minnesota gathered Friday, December 15th to listen to a crucial discussion regarding U.S.- China Strategic Competition. Experts Zongyuan Zoe Liu and Sahra English were joined by former Congressman, Mark Kennedy to discuss the dynamic situation in China regarding the economy, supply chain changes, and trade. The audience was rapt with attention as the trio navigated this challenging yet important subject. We look forward to discussing a number of the topics in further detail in the future.
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Leadership in Uncertain Times
11/14/2023
Leadership in Uncertain Times
On Friday, November 3rd, the Economic Club of Minnesota welcomed Bill George and Neel Kashkari in conversation with CNN’s Poppy Harlow. Harlow moderated a discussion on Leadership in Uncertain Times with Bill and Neel. The large audience were treated to lessons and stories about leaders who have gone astray as well as how to maintain one’s “True North”, a nod to Bill’s book by the same name. Poppy also dug into why leaders become leaders and their decisions to get involved in social matters. There were some great audience questions and Poppy concluded the event with a few questions for Neel on the recent jobs report and asked his thoughts on the comments made by Stan Druckenmiller about the U.S. Treasury leader, Janet Yellen.
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Balancing In-Person & Remote Work
11/06/2023
Balancing In-Person & Remote Work
The Economic Club of Minnesota hosted industry experts on October 18th to discuss the balance between returning to in-person and remote work. The panel was moderated by Jeanne Crain, President & CEO, Bremer Financial Corporation. Steve Cramer, President & CEO of the Minneapolis Downtown Council, Doug Fulton, Principal at Avison Young, and Kelly Baker, CHRO at Thrivent, had a lively discussion about the current state of commercial real estate, how companies are managing back to the office mandates, and the mental health considerations of employees. The conversation touched on several factors regarding full-time return to the office and the future of work.
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Corie Barry
10/11/2023
Corie Barry
On September 22nd, the Economic Club of Minnesota kicked off the 2023-2024 season with a fireside chat between Corie Barry, CEO of Best Buy and Neel Kashkari, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. Over 200 audience members got an inside glimpse of various topics; from how Best Buy handled the pandemic to the economy, to Corie’s path to leadership. A large percentage of the audience were college students. Corie’s message was inspiring for all levels of leaders and students alike.
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MN’s Future Economy – Post Legislative Session
06/30/2023
MN’s Future Economy – Post Legislative Session
Minnesota’s Future Economy: a Post Legislative Session discussion On Wednesday, June 21st, the Economic Club of Minnesota convened a panel of legislative leaders in a discussion moderated by Blois Olson. Representative Lisa DeMuth, Representative Aisha Gomez, Senator Eric Pratt, and Senator Nick Frentz began the conversation by each giving a letter grade to the economy of Minnesota. The results were wide-ranging. Blois posed several questions of his own and weaved in audience questions. Topics included the budget surplus that was present and the beginning of the session, and how it was spent by lawmakers. Each weighed in on the potential effects of new taxes, the restrictions on charitable giving, and school funding. Blois questioned the panel on the effort to grow the population of Minnesota while retaining jobs.
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James Bullard
05/15/2023
James Bullard
In our final event of the season, a capacity audience was treated to a wonderful fireside chat between Jim Bullard, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis and Neel Kashkari, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. The discussion centered around labor, recent bank failures, digital currency and the viability of the US dollar. President Bullard said, “Rumors of the great demise of the economy are overexaggerated.” The audience asked some poignant questions regarding the Chinese and the relationship to the world’s reserve currency, the fitness of commercial real estate, and AI.
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Arancha González Laya
03/17/2023
Arancha González Laya
On Wednesday, March 8, 2023, International Women’s Day, The Economic Club of Minnesota honored the 2022 Bill Frenzel Champion of Free Trade award winner, Arancha González Laya. Devry Boughner Vorwerk, chair of the selection committee presented the award before a capacity audience. Minister González Laya accepted the award and made remarks centering around how free and open trade is the basis for economic prosperity. Ms. Boughner Vorwerk and Minister González Laya had a fireside chat discussing the current landscape of the World Trade Organization, how protectionist measures can cause a fracturing of international trade. Minister González Laya would like to see all players at the table; the EU, China, the US, and other members of WTO to set out a framework for fair trade and to support climate policies to reduce carbon emissions.
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Ambassador Marc Nathanson
02/14/2023
Ambassador Marc Nathanson
Ambassador Marc Nathanson, U.S. Ambassador to Norway, made a stop at the Economic Club of Minnesota during his recent visit to Minnesota. Ambassador Nathanson spoke to a full house during a luncheon on February 3rd. Senator Amy Klobuchar was in attendance and was honored to introduce the Ambassador. He discussed the strong ties between Norway and Minnesota, including his own family. Minnesota is home to the highest number of Norwegians, second only to Norway. The purpose of Ambassador’s visit to Minnesota was to celebrate the collaboration between the National Guard and the Norwegian military. The audience had some wonderful questions for the Ambassador, including an inquiry about the Seed Vault, the transition to the Green Economy, and Norway’s economy.
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The Current Business Conditions and Impact of U.S. Based Japanese Investment
01/30/2023
The Current Business Conditions and Impact of U.S. Based Japanese Investment
The Economic Club of Minnesota was honored to host Hiroyuki Nemoto, Chief Executive Director, Japan External Trade Organization Chicago, and Ralph Inforzato, Special Advisor, Japan External Trade Organization Chicago, to discuss the Current Business Conditions and Impact of U.S. Based Japanese Investment. Hundreds of attendees were surprised by the data the duo shared on Japanese investment in the U.S. and specifically, in the Midwest. Ralph also talked about Expo 2025, enticing audience members to attend this exciting event in Osaka.
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Major Garrett
12/14/2022
Major Garrett
On December 8, 2022, Major Garrett addressed a large group of sponsors, members, and invited guests at the Economic Club of Minnesota. Major talked about the recent release of Brittany Griner, the mid-term election, and some topics he covers in his new book, The Big Truth. Garrett has an esteemed career and has a way of boiling down the facts so no matter your political leaning, you understand what he’s saying. The audience had a chance to participate in Q&A, moderated by Tim Penny. Major is a well-respected journalist and author, and we look forward to hosting him again!
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Our Energy Future
12/09/2022
Our Energy Future
A large audience had the pleasure of hearing from national experts on energy on November 18th. Emma Bishop of Venn Strategies, Jim Bowyer a former professor and researcher at the University of Minnesota, and Brittany Zwierzchowski Tisler of Conservative Energy Network had a lively discussion led by Blois Olson of Fluence Media. The panel helped the audience think about energy issues and the future of energy in some new and interesting ways. We stretched our perspective on how to replace current modes of energy and how to safely and economically move in the direction of clean energy.
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The Global Food Crisis
11/10/2022
The Global Food Crisis
October 27, 2022, we hosted a panel of global experts about food insecurity and the Global Food Crisis. Hundreds of sponsors, members, and guests joined us in person while dozens joined the livestream as moderator Devry Boughner Vorwerk led a discussion with Peter Ceretti of Eurasia Group, Ambassador Ertharin Cousin, and former Secretary of Agriculture, Dan Glickman. The audience learned where things stand today with global, national, and local food insecurity. The panelists talked about how humanitarian efforts are funded and how the investment in global hunger is growing. The discussion helped to inform how companies, not just food companies, can address hunger issues. Ambassador Cousin made a very important statement, “There has never been a famine in a country where there was a functioning democracy.” Devry also introduced HUNGHRI, a 501c3 formed to address hunger from the heartland.
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Gov. Chris Waller
05/17/2022
Gov. Chris Waller
Hundreds of sponsors, members, and guests joined us on May 10th as we welcomed Dr. Chris Waller, Governor, Board of Governors for the Federal Reserve and Neel Kashkari, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. Governor Waller and President Kashkari had a fireside chat regarding the structure of the Federal Reserve, inflation, and monetary policy. The audience was engaged and asked some wonderful questions about employment numbers, real estate investing, and regulation. Governor Waller and President Kashkari were a perfect highlight to end our 2021-2022 season!
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The Rt. Hon. James Cleverly
04/20/2022
The Rt. Hon. James Cleverly
On Thursday, April 14th The Economic Club of Minnesota hosted James Cleverly, Minister of State (Minister for Europe and North America) in the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). The Minister covered crucial topics surrounding the valuable partnership between and coordinated sanctions by both the UK and US to cut off Putin’s war machine. Support of Ukraine is not only a support for a war-torn entity, but also a support of democracy. We will all feel the economic pinch of sanctions, but they are so necessary. The address and subsequent Q&A, moderated by 5-Eyewitness News Chief Political Correspondent, Tom Hauser also touched on the incredibly valuable trading partnership between the UK and the US, specifically with the state of Minnesota.
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Jon M. Huntsman, Jr.
03/16/2022
Jon M. Huntsman, Jr.
On Tuesday, March 8th, the Economic Club of Minnesota had the distinct honor of awarding The Bill Frenzel Champion of Free Trade award to Jon M. Huntsman, Jr., former Ambassador to China and Russia. Devry Boughner Vorwerk, Chair of the COFTA selection committee presented the award. In her remarks, she focused not only on the incredible list of accomplishments but on Jon Huntsman’s work for people of all nations. He truly is a champion. Following Huntsman’s remarks, Erik Paulsen moderated a discussion that included trade and focused on recent events in Russia, specifically whether Putin has an ‘off ramp’ and how will the Russian invasion of Ukraine affect global trade and global security. He was clear in his message that no other nation in the world can do what the United States of America can do. It’s imperative we work together. A united America is one weapon dictators fear most.
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