U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar Visits The Hormel Institute

Senator Klobuchar met with The Hormel Institute leadership team and went on a tour to learn about new plans for cancer research facility

July 8, 2021 – Austin, MN – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar visited The Hormel Institute today to meet with Executive Director Dr. Robert Clarke, Austin Mayor Steve King, The Hormel Foundation Board Vice Chair Bonnie Rietz, John Garry of the DCA and members of The Hormel Institute Leadership Team. Senator Klobuchar received an update from Dr. Clarke and was given a tour of The Hormel Institute, focusing on the Institute’s groundbreaking medical research and technology advancements.

“In a lot of places in a town of this size, you may not find a world-renowned research center like this,” said Senator Klobuchar, in her 6th visit to the Institute since 2008.

“It’s because of the generosity of Minnesota, as well as the corporate partners, the University of Minnesota, Mayo Clinic, and Hormel Foods. I want to make sure the people in Washington understand the importance of the work being done here.”

The senator said what stands out about The Hormel Institute is its important focus on cancer, a disease that touches nearly everyone in some way, its relatively new focus on biofuels and potential for a reduced risk of cancer, and its cutting edge expertise with the Cryo-Em microscope, one of the most powerful electron microscopes in the world.

“I learned about the new research focus that shows biofuels are much better than gasoline in terms of toxicity, which was very exciting, and also about the incredible microscope that is here,” said Senator Klobuchar.

Dr. Robert Clarke, The Hormel Institute’s Executive Director, says the support the Institute receives from Senator Klobuchar is crucial to continue the important work being done at the Institute.

“We are here to find cures that make peoples’ lives better. Everybody is touched by cancer and we are doing our part here to work toward a cure,” said Dr. Clarke.