What Happened
Powerful Democrat Shapes State's Growing Aerospace Industry
U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum, a top House Democrat overseeing federal defense spending, is using her influence to support Minnesota’s blossoming defense technology sector. With the help of her former chief of staff turned lobbyist, McCollum has helped deliver hundreds of millions to Minnesota companies, nonprofits, and universities working on projects such as hypersonics and AI-powered drones. According to the Minnesota Star Tribune, McCollum’s efforts have aided the state’s growing defense sector, which may have significant implications for the local economy and job market.