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Legislative News and Views - Rep. John Lesch (DFL)

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Update from the State Capitol; February 2, 2017

Thursday, February 2, 2017

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Dear Neighbors,

Like many of us, I have been greatly troubled by what we are seeing from Washington, D.C. In almost unprecedented fashion, we have seen an administration take aim at targeted groups of people in such a broad, overreaching manner. Members of the president’s own political party have raised concerns, and we have seen communities all across this country come together to rise up and be heard. Unfortunately, both in D.C. and here in Minnesota we’ve also seen attempts to silence dissent.

This should concern all of us, regardless of political persuasion. As we try to grasp what is happening, it’s important for us to look at this all through the lens of the rule of law. The executive orders enacted by the president are clearly at odds with this, as illustrated by the vocal, swift response from the federal bench. There is much more work before us though as week seek to protect our neighbors, and for the sake of liberty, we must all come together to allow their voices to be heard.

Here in Minnesota, we have a diverse community of folks from all over the globe who have come here to seek greater opportunities, as well as those who have been refugees escaping famine, violence, or persecution. I’m blessed to have a rich Hmong community in the district I represent, with many who have put down roots in Minnesota after escaping Laos and the aftermath of the Secret War. Our colleges and universities in Minnesota educate many students hailing from other countries, and we cannot lose sight of how executive actions may impact their opportunities. The vibrant and growing Somali community in the Twin Cities has brought with it new cultural and economic benefits.

Overreaching actions to limit who enters the United States based on the country someone comes from, or worse yet, the religion they practice, aren’t just out of line with the constitution, but out of line with our morals. I’m encouraged at the strong response from our community against these recent unconstitutional executive orders. Here in Minnesota though, the right to peacefully protest is under attack.

A bill has passed through the Civil Law committee which would give local governments the ability to go after those who participate in protests for law enforcement costs. This is the wrong approach, and would have chilling effects on our rights to free speech and assembly. Other legislators pushing this legislation would be better served by listening to why these protests occur in the first place rather than attempting to silence them. I recently shared my thoughts on this measure with CNN; you can check out the story here.

In the Minnesota House, I’m committed to expanding opportunities for people, and not closing the door on them. With an eye on justice, and not divisions, we can do this for all people, leaving our nation and state in a better position than when we found it.

Sincerely,

John Lesch

State Representative