{{Short description|American politician}} {{Infobox officeholder | name = Frank Hornstein | image = Frank Hornstein at E Line opening.jpg | image_size = 180px | alt = Hornstein in 2007 | state_house = Minnesota | district = 61A | constituency = 61A (2013-present)<br />60B (2003-2012) | term_start = January 7, 2003 | term_end = January 14, 2025 | preceded = ''redrawn district'' | succeeded = Katie Jones | party = Democratic (DFL) | birth_date = {{birth date and age|1959|9|27}} | birth_place = Cincinnati, Ohio | death_date = | death_place = | education = Macalester College (B.A.)<br>Tufts University (M.A.) | occupation = {{hlist|Community organizer|College instructor|Legislator}} | spouse = Marcia Zimmerman | children = 3 | website = {{URL|https://www.house.mn.gov/members/profile/10767|Government website}} {{URL|https://frankhornstein.org/|Campaign website}} }} '''Frank Hornstein''' (born September 27, 1959) is an American politician who served in the Minnesota House of Representatives from 2003 to 2025. A member of the Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party (DFL), Hornstein represented District 61A, which includes parts of the city of Minneapolis in Hennepin County, Minnesota.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Hornstein, Frank - Legislator Record - Minnesota Legislators Past & Present |url=https://www.lrl.mn.gov/legdb/fulldetail?id=10767 |access-date=2023-04-12 |website=www.lrl.mn.gov}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Rep. Frank Hornstein (61A) - Minnesota House of Representatives |url=https://www.house.mn.gov/members/profile/10767 |access-date=2023-04-12 |website=www.house.mn.gov}}</ref>
==Early life, education and career== Hornstein was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1959 to parents of Hungarian and Polish descent who survived the Holocaust in Germany. His grandmother died in the Auschwitz concentration camp.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Sturdevant |first=Lori |date=December 31, 2015 |title=OPINION EXCHANGE {{!}} Forget Nazi comparisons — find other ways to reject hateful speech |url=https://www.startribune.com/forget-nazi-comparisons-find-other-ways-to-reject-hateful-speech/363963111/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref>
Hornstein received his bachelor's degree in environmental studies from Macalester College. He earned a master's in urban and environmental policy from Tufts University, and attended graduate school at the University of Minnesota's Humphrey Institute.<ref name=":0" />
Hornstein worked as a community organizer for COACT, a grassroots citizens' action group, Clean Water Action, and as a volunteer on Paul Wellstone's 1982 campaign for state auditor.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Brown |first=Curt |date=September 25, 2017 |title=15 years after his death, Paul Wellstone remains unforgettable |url=https://www.startribune.com/paul-wellstone-passionate-persistent-unforgettable/452136113/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> He was appointed to the Twin Cities Metropolitan Council by Governor Jesse Ventura in 2000, serving until his election to the legislature.<ref name=":0" /> He has taught at Augsburg University.<ref name=":1" />
==Minnesota House of Representatives== Hornstein was elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2002 and was reelected every two years until 2022.<ref name=":0" /> After 2012 legislative redistricting, he was put into the same district as fellow legislator Marion Greene and both sought the DFL endorsement.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Scheck |first=Tom |date=February 22, 2012 |title=Paired incumbents start pondering political future |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2012/02/22/paired-incumbents-start-pondering-political-future |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Scheck |first=Tom |date=March 4, 2012 |title=All but one paired incumbent settles on political future |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2012/03/04/all-but-one-paired-incumbent-settles-on-political-future |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Grow |first=Doug |date=2012-02-22 |title=Redistricting 'showdown' shaping up between Minneapolis DFL Reps. Greene and Hornstein |url=https://www.minnpost.com/political-agenda/2012/02/redistricting-showdown-shaping-between-minneapolis-dfl-reps-greene-and-ho/ |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MinnPost |language=en-US}}</ref> At the convention, Greene conceded to Hornstein, who later endorsed her when she ran for Hennepin County Commissioner.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Scheck |first=Tom |date=March 24, 2012 |title=Gruenhagen defeats Shimanski in endorsement battle |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2012/03/24/gruenhagen-defeats-shimanski-in-endorsement-battle |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Collins |first=Jon |date=April 29, 2014 |title=Key vote today in race for Hennepin County Board seat |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2014/04/29/hennepin-county-board-primary |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref> In 2013, he endorsed city-council member Betsy Hodges in the Minneapolis mayoral election.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Boros |first=Karen |date=2013-06-12 |title=Minneapolis mayoral candidates tout endorsements |url=https://www.minnpost.com/two-cities/2013/06/minneapolis-mayoral-candidates-tout-endorsements/ |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MinnPost |language=en-US}}</ref> Hornstein supported Bernie Sanders during the 2016 Democratic Party presidential primary and was a delegate for Sanders.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Condon |first1=Patrick |last2=Coolican |first2=J. Patrick |date=July 28, 2016 |title=Minnesota DFL's Sanders, Clinton camps join in opposition to Trump |url=https://www.startribune.com/sanders-clinton-camps-among-dfl-at-national-convention-join-in-opposition-to-trump/388613651/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Black |first=Eric |date=2016-04-21 |title=Sanders' surprising success built on Wellstone-style campaign |url=https://www.minnpost.com/eric-black-ink/2016/04/sanders-surprising-success-built-wellstone-style-campaign/ |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MinnPost |language=en-US}}</ref> He later endorsed Hillary Clinton after Sanders did the same.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Brodey |first=Sam |date=2016-07-13 |title=Rep. Keith Ellison endorses Hillary Clinton |url=https://www.minnpost.com/politics-policy/2016/07/rep-keith-ellison-endorses-hillary-clinton/ |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MinnPost |language=en-US}}</ref>
Hornstein chaired the Transportation Finance and Policy Committee from 2019 to 2023. He also served on the Climate and Energy Finance and Policy, Sustainable Infrastructure Policy, and Ways and Means Committees. Hornstein chaired the Transportation and Transit Policy Committee from 2007 to 2010 and the Transportation Finance Committee from 2013 to 2014.<ref name=":0" />
In February 2024, Hornstein announced he would not seek reelection after serving eleven terms in the Minnesota House.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rep. Frank Hornstein - Release: Rep. Frank Hornstein announces he will not run for re-election to the Minnesota House |url=https://www.house.mn.gov/members/profile/news/10767/37876 |access-date=2025-11-16 |website=www.house.mn.gov |language=en}}</ref> In an interview after his announcement, Hornstein said "It is time to pass the torch. I've been here 22 years. You can't do something forever."<ref>{{Cite web |title=“You can't do something forever": Rep. Frank Hornstein retires after 11 terms |url=https://www.southwestvoices.news/posts/you-cant-do-something-forever-rep-frank-hornstein-retires-after-11-terms |access-date=2025-11-16 |website=www.southwestvoices.news}}</ref> Hornstein endorsed Katie Jones, a climate policy analyst, in the final days before the DFL primary election for his seat.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Griffith |first=Michelle |date=2024-08-09 |title=Race for Minneapolis House seat heats up in final weekend before DFL primary election • Minnesota Reformer |url=https://minnesotareformer.com/2024/08/09/race-for-minneapolis-house-seat-heats-up-in-final-weekend-before-dfl-primary-election/ |access-date=2025-11-16 |website=Minnesota Reformer |language=en-US}}</ref> Jones would go on to win the primary and general election.
=== Transportation === As transportation chair, Hornstein advocated for increasing transit funding for rapid bus lines, increasing passenger rail services between the Twin Cities and St. Cloud, Duluth, and Chicago, transportation services for the disabled, and increased funding for roads and bridges.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Roper |first1=Eric |last2=Moore |first2=Janet |date=November 13, 2018 |title=Twin Cities transit advocates saw a lot to like in election results |url=https://www.startribune.com/twin-cities-transit-advocates-saw-a-lot-to-like-in-election-results/500393151/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Janet |date=December 12, 2018 |title=New Minnesota coalition pushes Legislature for public transit money |url=https://www.startribune.com/new-minnesota-coalition-pushes-legislature-for-public-transit-money/502529441/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Van Berkel |first=Jessie |date=January 5, 2019 |title=Divided Minnesota Legislature gets ready for $50 billion question |url=https://www.startribune.com/2019-minnesota-legislative-preview/503952292/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Pan |first=H. Jiahong |date=2023-01-18 |title=Buses, rail, biking, walking and, yes, even some driving: DFL transportation plans |url=https://minnesotareformer.com/2023/01/18/buses-rail-biking-walking-and-yes-even-some-driving-the-dfls-legislatures-transpo-plans/ |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=Minnesota Reformer |language=en-US}}</ref> He stated that the state needs to look at transportation "through an equity lens, a racial justice lens... and through a climate lens".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Condon |first=Patrick |date=March 27, 2021 |title=Biden's infrastructure plans could bring billions of dollars to Minnesota |url=https://www.startribune.com/biden-s-infrastructure-plans-could-bring-billions-of-dollars-to-minnesota/600039399/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref>
Hornstein long supported issuing driver's licenses regardless of immigration status.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Coolican |first=J. Patrick |date=January 12, 2017 |title=House moves quickly on Real ID, but opposition is bipartisan |url=https://www.startribune.com/house-moves-quickly-on-real-id-but-opposition-is-bipartisan/410594315/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> He supported increasing the state gas tax and the sales tax in the Twin Cities to pay for transit improvements.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pugmire |first=Tim |date=October 9, 2014 |title=Dayton walks back from gas sales tax |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2014/10/09/dayton-walks-back-from-gas-sales-tax |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Pugmire |first=Tim |date=April 7, 2021 |title=House roads plan includes higher gas tax |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2021/04/07/house-roads-plan-includes-higher-gas-tax |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref> Hornstein pushed for stricter speed limits on city streets to protect pedestrians and bicyclers, increasing the use of electric buses, and reducing the number of drivers on roads.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Brandt |first=Steve |date=January 19, 2016 |title=Bicycle lobby to seek lower speed limit for cities in Minnesota |url=https://www.startribune.com/bicycle-lobby-to-seek-lower-speed-limit-for-cities-in-minnesota/365703571/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Janet |date=February 21, 2019 |title=Metro Transit rolls out its first electric bus ahead of June debut |url=https://www.startribune.com/metro-transit-rolls-out-its-first-electric-bus/506185212/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bjorhus |first=Jennifer |date=March 25, 2021 |title=Fight against climate change could include goal to reduce driving in Minnesota |url=https://www.startribune.com/fight-against-climate-change-could-include-goal-to-reduce-driving-in-minnesota/600038632/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> He authored legislation to leverage federal infrastructure dollars for projects in Minnesota.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Van Berkel |first=Jessie |date=May 30, 2022 |title=State Capitol stalemate could risk federal infrastructure dollars |url=https://www.startribune.com/state-capitol-stalemate-could-risk-federal-infrastructure-dollars/600177743/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last1=Hornstein |first1=Frank |last2=Long |first2=Jamie |date=May 31, 2022 |title=OPINION EXCHANGE {{!}} Lawmakers must not squander federal funding |url=https://www.startribune.com/lawmakers-must-not-squander-federal-funding/600178040/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Pugmire |first=Tim |date=April 27, 2022 |title=House passes transportation, state agency funding bill |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2022/04/26/mn-house-passes-transportation-state-agencies-funding-bill |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref>
==== Distracted driving legislation ==== Hornstein authored legislation that made it illegal to text while driving, and bills to raise fines for drivers repeatedly caught texting and driving.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hornstein |first=Frank |date=December 15, 2011 |title=Minnesota should move quickly to ban cell phones while driving |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2011/12/15/hornstein |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Harlow |first=Tim |date=July 31, 2015 |title=New texting law raises fines for motorists with 2 or more offenses |url=https://www.startribune.com/new-texting-law-raises-fines-for-motorists-with-2-or-more-offenses/320097411/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> He also authored bills to make it illegal to use a cellphone while driving without a hands-free device, which faced opposition from House Republicans.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Zamora |first=Karen |date=February 7, 2017 |title=Bill would restrict cellphone use by drivers |url=https://www.startribune.com/bill-would-restrict-cellphone-use-by-drivers/412969153/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Harlow |first=Tim |date=April 4, 2017 |title=Measure banning Minnesota drivers from using hand-held devices faces long odds |url=https://www.startribune.com/measure-banning-drivers-from-using-hand-held-devices-on-life-support-at-legislature/418249783/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> At the time, distracted driving was the cause of 25 percent of crashes and 20 percent of motor vehicle fatalities.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Harlow |first=Tim |date=May 10, 2018 |title=Bill banning handheld devices in cars passes Minnesota House committee |url=https://www.startribune.com/bill-banning-hand-held-devices-passes-minnesota-house-committee/482290271/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> The bill was reintroduced under DFL control, passed the House with bipartisan support, and was signed by Governor Tim Walz in April 2018.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Harlow |first=Tim |date=February 22, 2018 |title=Push to ban handheld cellphones begins with rally at the Capitol |url=https://www.startribune.com/push-for-hands-free-cell-phone-bill-begins-with-rally-at-the-capitol/474881573/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Montemayor |first=Stephen |date=March 18, 2019 |title=Hands-free bill clears Minnesota House; Senate vote expected soon |url=https://www.startribune.com/hands-free-bill-expected-to-clear-minnesota-house-senate-vote-expected-soon/507332122/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bakst |first=Brian |date=April 8, 2019 |title=Deal sends message to drivers: Prepare to put phone down |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2019/04/08/hands-free-bill-vote |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Star Tribune Editorial Board |date=April 12, 2019 |title=EDITORIAL {{!}} Beginning in August, hands-free law should save lives |url=https://www.startribune.com/beginning-in-august-hands-free-law-should-save-lives/508517982/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref>
==== Railroad regulation ==== Hornstein advocated for greater regulation of railroads, especially oil trains, and authored amendments and bills requiring companies to share the cost of rail line upgrades.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Shaffer |first1=David |last2=Moore |first2=Janet |date=December 31, 2014 |title=Minnesota officials put price tag at $280M to upgrade oil train routes |url=https://www.startribune.com/officials-put-price-tag-at-280m-to-upgrade-safety-of-oil-train-routes/287229711/ |access-date=2023-04-12 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last1=Moore |first1=Janet |last2=Condon |first2=Patrick |date=April 24, 2015 |title=Minnesota House passes $7 billion transportation bill after contentious debate |url=https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-house-passes-7b-transportation-bill/300813061/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Pugmire |first=Tim |date=February 12, 2014 |title=Lawmakers propose oil transport fee to fund safety plans |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2014/02/12/lawmakers-propose-oil-transport-fee-to-fund-safety-plans |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Qualy |first=Phillip |date=May 23, 2019 |title=OPINION EXCHANGE {{!}} Bill on minimum train crew is a matter of public safety |url=https://www.startribune.com/bill-on-minimum-train-crew-is-a-matter-of-public-safety/510352522/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> He opposed legislation to absolve companies of liability in case of accidents, pushed for a law requiring a study of the industry, and later authored bipartisan legislation to fix the issues found.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Janet |date=April 3, 2017 |title=Minn. legislators debate who pays if freight, LRT collide |url=https://www.startribune.com/minn-legislators-debate-who-pays-if-freight-lrt-collide/418031863/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Shaffer |first=David |date=January 16, 2015 |title=Minnesota study finds more preparation needed for oil disasters |url=https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-study-finds-more-preparation-needed-for-oil-disasters/288776511/ |access-date=2023-04-12 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Shaffer |first=David |date=March 13, 2015 |title=Dayton proposes spending $330 million to upgrade rail safety |work=Star Tribune |url=https://www.startribune.com/dayton-proposes-spending-330-million-to-upgrade-rail-safety/296219451/ |access-date=2023-04-13}}</ref> He supported guidance from the National Transportation Safety Board that recommends hazardous oil cargo be routed away from population centers, and criticized the Trump administration for rolling back regulations.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Shaffer |first1=David |last2=Roper |first2=Eric |date=November 21, 2015 |title=More N.D. oil trains entering Twin Cities via the west metro suburbs |url=https://www.startribune.com/more-n-d-oil-trains-entering-twin-cities-via-the-west-metro-suburbs/330981171/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last1=Shaffer |first1=David |last2=Roper |first2=Eric |date=October 22, 2015 |title=Governor criticizes BNSF for rerouting oil trains into downtown Minneapolis |url=https://www.startribune.com/governor-criticizes-bnsf-for-rerouting-oil-trains-into-downtown-minneapolis/335269891/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Keen |first=Judy |date=September 9, 2017 |title=Concern about hazardous train cargo as Trump administration scraps, slows rail safety measures |url=https://www.startribune.com/concern-about-hazardous-train-cargo-as-trump-administration-scraps-slows-rail-safety-measures/443478763/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref>
==== Light rail and bus rapid transit ==== Hornstein, who regularly uses the Twin Cities light rail system, opposed cuts to the system, and supported legislation to change fare-dodging from a criminal to a civil penalty.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Janet |date=April 30, 2015 |title=Fare dodgers on Green, Blue light-rail lines outrage lawmakers |url=https://www.startribune.com/light-rail-fare-dodgers-outrage-lawmakers/300216021/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref name=":2" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Janet |date=November 30, 2019 |title=Metro Transit police chief takes over a transit system in transition |url=https://www.startribune.com/metro-transit-police-chief-takes-over-a-transit-system-in-transition/565644302/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> He raised concern over running freight trains through light-rail corridors.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Janet |date=September 15, 2015 |title=Minnetonka, Eden Prairie and Hopkins approve scaled-back SWLRT plans |url=https://www.startribune.com/minneapolis-city-council-transportation-committee-approves-swlrt-plans/327727901/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> He supported increasing bus-rapid-transit projects, including the Orange Line, which would run from downtown Minneapolis to Burnsville.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Janet |date=October 22, 2020 |title=Two Twin Cities rapid bus lines win state funding |url=https://www.startribune.com/two-twin-cities-rapid-bus-lines-win-state-funding/572837352/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Multiple authors |date=August 15, 2016 |title=OPINION EXCHANGE {{!}} For the good of the region, counties must support the Orange Line by Sept. 2 |url=https://www.startribune.com/for-the-good-of-the-region-counties-must-support-the-orange-line-by-sept-2/390242981/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Nesterak |first=Max |date=October 16, 2020 |title=Legislature funds two new rapid bus lines along Twin Cities' busiest corridors |url=https://minnesotareformer.com/briefs/legislature-will-fund-two-new-rapid-bus-lines-along-twin-cities-busiest-corridors/ |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=Minnesota Reformer |language=en-US}}</ref>
==== Metropolitan Council ==== Hornstein supported reforms to the Metropolitan Council, a regional governmental agency and metropolitan planning organization, including instituting direct elections for members instead of gubernatorial appointment.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Callaghan |first=Peter |date=2015-02-11 |title=Nobody likes the Met Council |url=https://www.minnpost.com/politics-policy/2015/02/nobody-likes-met-council/ |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MinnPost |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Roper |first=Eric |date=February 20, 2017 |title=GOP critics at Capitol take aim at Met Council structure |url=https://www.startribune.com/gop-lawmakers-take-aim-at-metropolitan-council-structure/414294243/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Callaghan |first=Peter |date=2023-03-08 |title=Should Met Council members have to run for election? GOP and DFL say yes |url=https://www.minnpost.com/state-government/2023/03/should-met-council-members-have-to-run-for-election-yes-say-republicans-and-now-dflers-too/ |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MinnPost |language=en-US}}</ref> He criticized the council for lacking transparency, public input, and adequate environmental reviews, for cost overruns,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Janet |date=August 16, 2017 |title=Met Council approves rail agreements for Southwest light rail |url=https://www.startribune.com/met-council-approves-rail-agreements-for-swlrt/440832433/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Janet |date=November 21, 2017 |title=Feds require new study for Southwest light-rail crash wall |url=https://www.startribune.com/feds-require-new-environmental-study-for-swlrt-crash-wall/459081143/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> and for its handling of the Southwest Light Rail project; he supported audits of the council's performance and legislation to transfer the project to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Janet |date=July 30, 2021 |title=DFL lawmakers ask legislative auditor to probe Southwest LRT project |url=https://www.startribune.com/dfl-lawmakers-ask-legislative-auditor-to-probe-southwest-lrt-project/600083216/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Janet |date=August 11, 2021 |title=$200 million more in Southwest light-rail funding approved |url=https://www.startribune.com/200-million-more-in-southwest-light-rail-funding-approved/600087038/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Janet |title=Bill would transfer Southwest light-rail project from Met Council to MnDOT |url=https://www.startribune.com/bill-would-transfer-southwest-light-rail-project-from-met-council-to-mndot/600144936/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune|date=10 February 2022 }}</ref>
=== Other policy positions === Hornstein opposed privatization of government services and growing corporate money influence in politics.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tevlin |first=Jon |date=January 3, 2017 |title=At refurbished Capitol, democracy never looked so good |url=https://www.startribune.com/tevlin-capitol-sparkles-in-legislative-opener/409601145/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> He introduced legislation to raise the minimum wage in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, and supports a $15 an hour minimum wage.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nelson |first=Emma |date=November 17, 2018 |title=$15 minimum wage fight sets sights on all of Minnesota |url=https://www.startribune.com/15-minimum-wage-fight-moves-to-state-capitol/500758961/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> He opposed state funding for sports stadiums.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pugmire |first=Tim |date=April 17, 2012 |title=Who was the stadium flipper? |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2012/04/17/who-was-the-stadium-flipper |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref> He supported legislation that would ban the sale of semi-automatic assault rifles.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Grow |first=Doug |date=2013-03-20 |title=Universal background checks tabled; House DFL seeks compromise gun bill |url=https://www.minnpost.com/politics-policy/2013/03/universal-background-checks-tabled-house-dfl-seeks-compromise-gun-bill/ |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MinnPost |language=en-US}}</ref>
Hornstein criticized the Trump administration's attempts to end the DACA program for young immigrants.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Van Berkel |first=Jessie |date=March 5, 2018 |title=Two Minnesota legislators urge Trump to act on DACA |url=https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-lawmakers-urge-trump-to-act-on-daca/475907553/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> He visited the Texas border in 2018 and spoke out against the administration's family separation policy.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Golden |first=Erin |date=June 30, 2018 |title=Minnesotan feels pain of migrant crisis at home |url=https://www.startribune.com/minnesotan-feels-pain-of-migrant-crisis-at-home/487028051/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> Hornstein was part of a bipartisan delegation to Cuba in 2015, and said that he supported future economic ties with the country. In 2009, he led a bipartisan delegation to Israel, and traveled to Germany to explore green energy and jobs policy.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Coolican |first=J. Patrick |date=November 10, 2015 |title=Five Minnesota legislators, staff head to Cuba |url=https://www.startribune.com/five-minnesota-legislators-staff-head-to-cuba/345299522/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kimball |first=Joe |date=2009-11-02 |title=Ten Minnesota legislators traveling to Israel this week |url=https://www.minnpost.com/political-agenda/2009/11/ten-minnesota-legislators-traveling-israel-week/ |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MinnPost |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kimball |first=Joe |date=2011-11-14 |title=Germany latest stop for state leaders on energy, jobs mission |url=https://www.minnpost.com/political-agenda/2011/11/germany-latest-stop-state-leaders-energy-jobs-mission/ |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MinnPost |language=en-US}}</ref>
==== Hate crime legislation ==== Hornstein has spoken out against increasing hate crimes against Jewish, Muslim, Asian, and LGBTQ Americans, and authored legislation that would require the Attorney General's office to review hate-crime laws.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Hornstein |first1=Frank |last2=Noor |first2=Mohamud |date=October 25, 2018 |title=OPINION EXCHANGE {{!}} Anniversary of Tree of Life shooting is a reminder that we must work together to end hate crimes |url=https://www.startribune.com/anniversary-of-tree-of-life-shooting-is-a-reminder-that-we-must-work-together-to-end-hate-crimes/563879552/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Montemayor |first=Stephen |date=June 16, 2019 |title=Keith Ellison zeroes in on hate crimes |url=https://www.startribune.com/attorney-general-keith-ellison-eyes-new-minnesota-working-group-on-hate-crime/511379181/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Montemayor |first=Stephen |date=November 12, 2019 |title=Attack on Minneapolis mosque comes as reports of hate crimes drop |url=https://www.startribune.com/attack-on-minneapolis-mosque-comes-as-reports-of-hate-crimes-drop/564818952/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> The legislation failed to advance in the Republican-controlled Senate.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Marohn |first=Kristi |date=November 17, 2022 |title=Reports of hate crimes up in Minn., but proving bias remains a challenge |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2022/11/17/reports-of-hate-crimes-up-in-minn-but-proving-bias-remains-a-challenge |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref> He also authored legislation requiring increased training for police in dealing with bias-motivated crimes, and allowing community groups to file hate crime reports.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Montemayor |first=Stephen |date=May 14, 2020 |title=Effort to broaden hate crime reporting in Minnesota stalls |url=https://www.startribune.com/effort-to-broaden-hate-crime-reporting-in-minnesota-stalls/570482602/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Montemayor |first=Stephen |date=March 31, 2021 |title=Anti-Asian hate crimes heighten calls for new legislation in Minnesota, Congress |url=https://www.startribune.com/anti-asian-hate-crimes-heighten-calls-for-new-legislation-in-minnesota-congress/600040779/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> He authored legislation to require Holocaust and genocide education in middle and high school education.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Deng |first=Grace |date=2023-03-16 |title=Dora Zaidenweber, 99-year-old Holocaust survivor, tells state lawmakers: "Mass murder can happen" |url=https://minnesotareformer.com/2023/03/15/dora-zaidenweber-99-year-old-holocaust-survivor-tells-state-lawmakers-mass-murder-can-happen/ |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=Minnesota Reformer |language=en-US}}</ref> In 2007, he spoke out on the House floor against legislators who likened a smoking ban to Nazism and criticized gubernatorial candidate Scott Jensen for likening COVID-19 public health measures to Nazi Germany.<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bierschbach |first=Briana |date=August 26, 2022 |title=Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz calls on GOP opponent Scott Jensen to apologize for comments on COVID-19, Nazi Germany |url=https://www.startribune.com/gov-tim-walz-calls-on-republican-opponent-to-apologize-for-comments-on-covid-19-nazi-germany/600201424/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Zdechlik |first=Mark |date=August 26, 2022 |title=Walz calls for Jensen to apologize for COVID remarks |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2022/08/26/walz-calls-on-jensen-to-apologize-for-linking-covid19-restrictions-to-nazi-germany |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref>
==== Climate and the environment ==== Hornstein authored legislation in the House likened to the Green New Deal.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nelson |first=Cody |date=April 11, 2019 |title=Youth, lawmakers call for Minnesota Green New Deal |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2019/04/11/youth-lawmakers-call-for-minnesota-green-new-deal |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Star Tribune Editorial Board |date=September 19, 2019 |title=EDITORIAL {{!}} Don't delay on climate action |url=https://www.startribune.com/don-t-delay-on-climate-action/560817082/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> He has supported legislation to set 100 percent renewable energy goals in the state, and bills to increase recycling goals in the metro area.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hughlett |first=Mike |date=November 24, 2018 |title=DFL election wins could mean pressure on state's renewable-energy goals |url=https://www.startribune.com/dfl-election-wins-could-mean-pressure-on-state-s-renewable-energy-goals/501057791/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Dunbar |first=Elizabeth |date=February 5, 2014 |title=Lawmakers look for ways to increase recycling, as bottle deposit bill is taken off the table |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2014/02/05/recycling-bottle-deposit-minnesota |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref> Hornstein has called for oil refineries to stop using hydrogen fluoride, calling it unsafe, and criticized the Enbridge Line 4 pipeline.<ref>{{Cite web |last=McKinney |first=Matt |date=May 7, 2018 |title=Legislators push to end St. Paul Park refinery's use of highly toxic chemical |url=https://www.startribune.com/legislators-push-to-end-st-paul-park-refinery-s-use-of-highly-toxic-chemical/481980541/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=The Associated Press |date=January 31, 2020 |title=Regulators revisit environmental review for Line 3 pipeline |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2020/01/31/regulators-revisit-environmental-review-for-line-3-pipeline |access-date=2023-04-14 |website=MPR News |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bjorhus |first=Jennifer |date=July 28, 2021 |title=Scorching drought exacerbates Line 3 water concerns in northern Minnesota |url=https://www.startribune.com/scorching-drought-exacerbates-line-3-water-concerns-in-northern-minnesota/600082497/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bjorhus |first=Jennifer |date=August 10, 2021 |title=MPCA reports more drilling mud spills along Line 3 construction route |url=https://www.startribune.com/mpca-reports-more-drilling-mud-spills-along-line-3-construction-route/600086700/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref> He attended the 2021 United Nations Climate Summit in Glasgow, Scotland.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bjorhus |first=Jennifer |date=November 3, 2021 |title=Minnesotans join push for change at U.N. climate summit |url=https://www.startribune.com/minnesotans-join-push-for-change-at-u-n-climate-summit/600112765/ |access-date=2023-04-13 |website=Star Tribune}}</ref>
== Electoral history ==
{{Election box begin no change | title = 2002 Minnesota State House - District 60B<ref>{{cite web|url=https://electionresults.sos.state.mn.us/results/Index?ErsElectionId=32&scenario=StateRepresentative&DistrictId=474&show=Go|title=2002 Results for State Representative District 60B|access-date=February 25, 2023|website=Minnesota Secretary of State}}</ref> }} {{Election box winning candidate with party link no change | candidate = Frank Hornstein | party = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party | votes = 15,194 | percentage = 97.90 }} {{Election box write-in with party link no change | votes = 326 | percentage = 2.10 }} {{Election box total no change | votes = 15,520 | percentage = 100.0 }} {{Election box hold with party link no change | winner = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party }} {{Election box end}}
{{Election box begin no change | title = 2004 Minnesota State House - District 60B<ref>{{cite web|url=https://electionresults.sos.state.mn.us/results/Index?ErsElectionId=42&scenario=StateRepresentative&DistrictId=474&show=Go|title=2004 Results for State Representative District 60B|access-date=February 25, 2023|website=Minnesota Secretary of State}}</ref> }} {{Election box winning candidate with party link no change | candidate = Frank Hornstein (incumbent) | party = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party | votes = 18,281 | percentage = 78.78 }} {{Election box candidate with party link no change | candidate = Jeremy J. Estenson | party = Republican Party of Minnesota | votes = 4,887 | percentage = 21.06 }} {{Election box write-in with party link no change | votes = 38 | percentage = 0.16 }} {{Election box total no change | votes = 23,206 | percentage = 100.0 }} {{Election box hold with party link no change | winner = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party }} {{Election box end}}
{{Election box begin no change | title = 2006 Minnesota State House - District 60B<ref>{{cite web|url=https://electionresults.sos.state.mn.us/results/Index?ErsElectionId=55&scenario=StateRepresentative&DistrictId=474&show=Go|title=2006 Results for State Representative District 60B|access-date=February 25, 2023|website=Minnesota Secretary of State}}</ref> }} {{Election box winning candidate with party link no change | candidate = Frank Hornstein (incumbent) | party = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party | votes = 15,867 | percentage = 81.84 }} {{Election box candidate with party link no change | candidate = Skyler Weinand | party = Republican Party of Minnesota | votes = 3,474 | percentage = 17.92 }} {{Election box write-in with party link no change | votes = 47 | percentage = 0.24 }} {{Election box total no change | votes = 19,388 | percentage = 100.0 }} {{Election box hold with party link no change | winner = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party }} {{Election box end}}
{{Election box begin no change | title = 2008 Minnesota State House - District 60B<ref>{{cite web|url=https://electionresults.sos.state.mn.us/results/Index?ErsElectionId=63&scenario=StateRepresentative&DistrictId=474&show=Go|title=2008 Results for State Representative District 60B|access-date=February 25, 2023|website=Minnesota Secretary of State}}</ref> }} {{Election box winning candidate with party link no change | candidate = Frank Hornstein (incumbent) | party = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party | votes = 18,868 | percentage = 80.80 }} {{Election box candidate with party link no change | candidate = Adam Martin | party = Republican Party of Minnesota | votes = 4,418 | percentage = 18.92 }} {{Election box write-in with party link no change | votes = 66 | percentage = 0.28 }} {{Election box total no change | votes = 23,352 | percentage = 100.0 }} {{Election box hold with party link no change | winner = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party }} {{Election box end}}
{{Election box begin no change | title = 2010 Minnesota State House - District 60B<ref>{{cite web|url=https://electionresults.sos.state.mn.us/results/Index?ErsElectionId=69&scenario=StateRepresentative&DistrictId=474&show=Go|title=2010 Results for State Representative District 60B|access-date=February 25, 2023|website=Minnesota Secretary of State}}</ref> }} {{Election box winning candidate with party link no change | candidate = Frank Hornstein (incumbent) | party = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party | votes = 14,707 | percentage = 80.41 }} {{Election box candidate with party link no change | candidate = Scott Brooks | party = Republican Party of Minnesota | votes = 3,557 | percentage = 19.45 }} {{Election box write-in with party link no change | votes = 27 | percentage = 0.15 }} {{Election box total no change | votes = 18,291 | percentage = 100.0 }} {{Election box hold with party link no change | winner = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party }} {{Election box end}}
{{Election box begin no change | title = 2012 Minnesota State House - District 61A<ref>{{cite web|url=https://electionresults.sos.state.mn.us/results/Index?ErsElectionId=1&scenario=StateRepresentative&DistrictId=475&show=Go|title=2012 Results for State Representative District 61A|access-date=February 25, 2023|website=Minnesota Secretary of State}}</ref> }} {{Election box winning candidate with party link no change | candidate = Frank Hornstein (incumbent) | party = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party | votes = 19,663 | percentage = 80.22 }} {{Election box candidate with party link no change | candidate = Devin Gawnemark | party = Republican Party of Minnesota | votes = 4,787 | percentage = 19.53 }} {{Election box write-in with party link no change | votes = 61 | percentage = 0.25 }} {{Election box total no change | votes = 24,511 | percentage = 100.0 }} {{Election box hold with party link no change | winner = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party }} {{Election box end}}
{{Election box begin no change | title = 2014 Minnesota State House - District 61A<ref>{{cite web|url=https://electionresults.sos.state.mn.us/results/Index?ErsElectionId=20&scenario=StateRepresentative&DistrictId=475&show=Go|title=2014 Results for State Representative District 61A|access-date=February 25, 2023|website=Minnesota Secretary of State}}</ref> }} {{Election box winning candidate with party link no change | candidate = Frank Hornstein (incumbent) | party = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party | votes = 14,239 | percentage = 80.79 }} {{Election box candidate with party link no change | candidate = Frank Taylor | party = Republican Party of Minnesota | votes = 3,341 | percentage = 18.96 }} {{Election box write-in with party link no change | votes = 45 | percentage = 0.26 }} {{Election box total no change | votes = 17,625 | percentage = 100.0 }} {{Election box hold with party link no change | winner = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party }} {{Election box end}}
{{Election box begin no change | title = 2016 Minnesota State House - District 61A<ref>{{cite web|url=https://electionresults.sos.state.mn.us/results/Index?ErsElectionId=20&scenario=StateRepresentative&DistrictId=475&show=Go|title=2016 Results for State Representative District 61A|access-date=February 25, 2023|website=Minnesota Secretary of State}}</ref> }} {{Election box winning candidate with party link no change | candidate = Frank Hornstein (incumbent) | party = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party | votes = 21,656 | percentage = 79.16 }} {{Election box candidate with party link no change | candidate = Brian Rosenblatt | party = Republican Party of Minnesota | votes = 5,615 | percentage = 20.53 }} {{Election box write-in with party link no change | votes = 85 | percentage = 0.31 }} {{Election box total no change | votes = 27,356 | percentage = 100.0 }} {{Election box hold with party link no change | winner = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party }} {{Election box end}}
{{Election box begin no change | title = 2018 Minnesota State House - District 61A<ref>{{cite web|url=https://electionresults.sos.state.mn.us/results/Index?ErsElectionId=115&scenario=StateRepresentative&DistrictId=475&show=Go|title=2018 Results for State Representative District 61A|access-date=February 25, 2023|website=Minnesota Secretary of State}}</ref> }} {{Election box winning candidate with party link no change | candidate = Frank Hornstein (incumbent) | party = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party | votes = 23,736 | percentage = 86.05 }} {{Election box candidate with party link no change | candidate = Jeremy Hansen | party = Republican Party of Minnesota | votes = 3,814 | percentage = 13.83 }} {{Election box write-in with party link no change | votes = 35 | percentage = 0.13 }} {{Election box total no change | votes = 27,585 | percentage = 100.0 }} {{Election box hold with party link no change | winner = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party }} {{Election box end}}
{{Election box begin no change | title = 2020 Minnesota State House - District 61A<ref>{{cite web|url=https://electionresults.sos.state.mn.us/results/Index?ErsElectionId=136&scenario=StateRepresentative&DistrictId=475&show=Go|title=2020 Results for State Representative District 61A|access-date=February 25, 2023|website=Minnesota Secretary of State}}</ref> }} {{Election box winning candidate with party link no change | candidate = Frank Hornstein (incumbent) | party = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party | votes = 25,755 | percentage = 84.41 }} {{Election box candidate with party link no change | candidate = Kurtis Fechtmeyer | party = Republican Party of Minnesota | votes = 4,724 | percentage = 15.48 }} {{Election box write-in with party link no change | votes = 34 | percentage = 0.11 }} {{Election box total no change | votes = 30,513 | percentage = 100.0 }} {{Election box hold with party link no change | winner = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party }} {{Election box end}}
{{Election box begin no change | title = 2022 Minnesota State House - District 61A<ref>{{cite web|url=https://electionresults.sos.state.mn.us/results/Index?ErsElectionId=149&scenario=StateRepresentative&DistrictId=475&show=Go|title=2022 Results for State Representative District 61A|access-date=February 25, 2023|website=Minnesota Secretary of State}}</ref> }} {{Election box winning candidate with party link no change | candidate = Frank Hornstein (incumbent) | party = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party | votes = 15,848 | percentage = 98.80 }} {{Election box write-in with party link no change | votes = 193 | percentage = 1.20 }} {{Election box total no change | votes = 16,041 | percentage = 100.0 }} {{Election box hold with party link no change | winner = Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party }} {{Election box end}}
==Personal life== Hornstein is Jewish. He is married to Marcia Zimmerman, chief rabbi at Temple Israel in Minneapolis.<ref name=":0" />
==References== {{reflist}}
==External links== {{MN-legdb|10767}} * [https://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/members/profile/10767 Official House of Representatives website] * [https://frankhornstein.org/ Official campaign website]
{{DEFAULTSORT:Hornstein, Frank}} Category:1959 births Category:Living people Category:Humphrey School of Public Affairs alumni Category:Politicians from Minneapolis Category:Democratic Party members of the Minnesota House of Representatives Category:20th-century American Jews Category:21st-century American Jews Category:Jewish state legislators in Minnesota Category:21st-century members of the Minnesota Legislature