Congressman Hagedorn was a good friend to Mayo Clinic and a strong voice for Minnesota. A proud native and lifelong champion of southern Minnesota, he knew our communities well and genuinely cared for those around him. We are grateful for his public service.
Statements on the death of U.S. Rep. Jim Hagedorn
Prominent Minnesotans spoke about the congressman's death from kidney cancer at age 59.
— Dr. Gianrico Farrugia, president and CEO of Mayo Clinic
Jim was a dear friend who wanted nothing more than to represent the people of Minnesota's First District in Congress. He did so every day with an unwavering passion and unshakable joy that brightened the halls of Congress and brought the best of Blue Earth to Washington.
— U.S. Reps. Michelle Fischbach, Tom Emmer and Pete Stauber, all R-Minn.
I'm saddened by the passing of my colleague, Jim Hagedorn. We had different political views but a respectful friendship and a shared love for Minnesota and our country.
— U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips, D-Minn.
Congressman Jim Hagedorn was a strong and effective legislator for the great people of southern Minnesota. I campaigned with Jim in 2018, and enjoyed working with him in Congress. May he rest in peace, and his family find comfort during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed!
— Former President Donald Trump
I was saddened to learn of the passing of Congressman Jim Hagedorn yesterday evening. I'm sending my deepest condolences to Jim's family, friends, and loved ones, particularly his wife, Jennifer Carnahan. I hope Jim's memory brings them joy and peace during this difficult time.
— Minnesota DFL Party Chair Ken Martin
Congressman Hagedorn was a fighter, not only with his battle with cancer but one for the many mom and pop businesses of Minnesota. As ranking member of the Subcommittee on Underserved, Agricultural, and Rural Business Development, Jim championed legislation to improve resources for small businesses, advocated for rural entrepreneurs, and upheld constitutional values. His work in Congress will continue to uplift small businesses and rural communities for years to come.
— U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer, R-Mo.
Jim and I served in the U.S. House during a time of many great challenges for our nation and for our state — and all the while, he bravely endured the personal challenge of cancer treatment with dignity and grace while serving our country and his constituents. Despite our policy differences on many issues, Jim and I were united in the common goal of achieving greater opportunities for future generations of Minnesotans.
— U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum, D-Minn.
I am deeply saddened by the passing of Congressman Jim Hagedorn. He served the district with honor and he will be greatly missed.
— Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Jeremy Miller, R-Winona
Amy and I extend our deepest condolences to Jennifer and the extended family of Representative Hagedorn. May you find grace and comfort in his memory.
— Dan Feehan, DFL congressional candidate twice defeated by Hagedorn
We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Congressman Hagedorn. He had a big heart and a tremendous passion to serve the district where he and his family have lived for generations. House Republicans send our deepest condolences to his wife Jennifer, all of his family, staff, and loved ones.
— Minnesota House Minority Leader Kurt Daudt, R-Crown
I'm saddened to hear about the passing of Rep. Hagedorn. He was a fighter for his constituents and a friend to so many, including me. Through his battle against cancer, he showed a level of determination that should inspire us all.
— U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn.
It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of my friend and colleague Jim Hagedorn. No one represented the values of Minnesota more than Jim and no one was needed more in these troubled times. He will be missed.
— Former U.S. Rep. Jason Lewis
I was saddened to hear that my colleague Jim Hagedorn has passed away this morning. Thinking of all of his friends, family and loved ones during this difficult time.
— U.S. Rep. Angie Craig, D-Minn.
Jim Hagedorn and I worked on opposite sides of the aisle but both worked to serve the people of Minnesota. No one should be taken away from us at such a young age. Thinking of Jennifer and all Jim's family.
— U.S. Sen. Tina Smith, D-Minn.
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