.png)
Meet Josh Bassais: A Neighbor, a Fighter, and a Candidate for a County That Works
Josh Bassais is a lifelong Minneapolis resident whose roots run deep in North Minneapolis and South Minneapolis’s Ward 8. Raised by a vibrant community, Josh’s values were shaped by the neighbors and families who supported him throughout his life. Today, he and his wife are raising their children in the same home where he grew up, reflecting his enduring commitment to the neighborhood.
Josh’s career began in the labor movement, representing workers with LIUNA and UNITE HERE and advocating for fair wages, safer workplaces, and dignity for all. He later transitioned to the private sector, where he managed multimillion-dollar budgets and honed his skills in collaboration and operational efficiency. As Lyndale Neighborhood Board President, Josh worked directly with families to address housing, safety, and access to vital resources, grounding his leadership in real-world experience.
Now running for Hennepin County Commissioner, Josh is determined to make county government more responsive, equitable, and accountable for District 3 residents. Having witnessed firsthand how county systems can be slow and confusing, he is committed to delivering solutions that prioritize urgency, fairness, and the needs of every neighbor.
Why I'm Running
I’m running for Hennepin County Commissioner because I know what it means when government gets the basics wrong—and how much it matters when it gets them right. My story is rooted in this community: I was raised by a single mother who depended on county public health services, and my father, living with a disability, relied on HCMC for life-saving care. These experiences shaped my belief in the power of public service and the importance of responsive, compassionate leadership.
Today, too many families in District 3 are struggling with rising property taxes, unaffordable housing, and a sense that public safety is uncertain. I see how slow, costly, and disconnected county responses leave residents feeling unheard and unsupported. I’m not running to maintain the status quo—I’m running to deliver results that matter.
I believe in leadership that listens first and acts with integrity. I will treat public dollars with the respect they deserve, focus on practical solutions, and work side-by-side with city, county, and state partners to achieve real progress. My promise is to be present, accountable, and ready to serve you every day.
Above all, I will defend our immigrant neighbors and fight for a county where everyone feels safe and welcome—no exceptions. I am committed to standing up against ICE raids and ensuring that Hennepin County is a place where all residents, regardless of immigration status, can live without fear.
I’m ready to get to work for you—because this is personal, and our community deserves nothing less.