Dear Neighbors, On Tuesday, voters across Minnesota and around the nation headed to the polls. Here in Minnesota, I was keeping a close eye on the vote in Minneapolis where citizens were asked to vote on abolishing the Minneapolis Police Department and replacing it with a new public safety agency. I am pleased to report that Minneapolis voters resoundingly defeated this "Defund the Police" ballot measure and largely rejected "Defund the Police" city council and mayoral candidates across the city. This is great news and proof positive that Minnesotans want safe communities, support law enforcement, and reject the extreme "Defund the Police" agenda being pushed by Democrats in Minnesota and across the country. As Republicans, we are ready to work to restore safety in our cities and make sure that criminals are being held accountable by judges and prosecutors. Crime rates have surged in the Twin Cities over the past year. Minneapolis and Saint Paul are on a record pace for murders, and carjackings are up 40% in Minneapolis. A statewide report released in July by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension showed a 17% spike in violent crime last year (2020), including a 58% increase in murders, a 20% increase in car thefts, and a 62% increase in assaults against on-duty law enforcement. I have supported numerous solutions here at the legislature that triy to address rising crime rates including boosting resources to high-risk areas, expanding the use of Shot Spotter technology, utilizing federal partnerships focused on reducing violent crime, and pilot programs like the COP House in St. Cloud to enhance police-community relations. Minnesotans and voters across the country have rejected the radical “Defund the Police” agenda being pushed by radical progressive Democrats. Let’s hope they drop these plans and join us in strengthening our support for law enforcement. Staying in TouchPlease do not hesitate to reach out to me to share your thoughts, questions, and concerns as it relates to state government. I can be reached at 651-296-4229 or via email at rep.glenn.gruenhagen@house.mn. Have a great day, Glenn |