Eric Pratt, Minnesota State Senator from 54th District (R) | Facebook
Eric Pratt, Minnesota State Senator from 54th District (R) | Facebook
Eric Pratt, a Minnesota state senator, shared his views on recent political developments in the state through several posts on social media. His statements addressed transportation funding, government oversight, and the legal outcome of a fellow legislator.
On July 17, 2025, Pratt commented on the cancellation of the NLX rail project. He wrote: "This is great news for Minnesota taxpayers. The NLX, just like the Northstar line,is more about a political agenda than solving a real transportation problem by burning cash on a train that runs parallel to I-35 and won’t save time. Defunding this boondoggle frees resources for https://t.co/DgHD5Jqfwa".
Later that day, Pratt criticized state leadership regarding oversight and fraud prevention measures. In his post from July 17, 2025, he stated: "It's frustrating to see another fraud occur through Tim Walz's agencies. The Senate passed an Office of Inspector General (OIG) bill 60-7 to stop the incredible wave of fraud. House Dems and Walz killed the bill. After identifying over $600M in losses before this, this could".
On July 18, 2025, Pratt addressed legal proceedings involving another member of the Minnesota Senate: "Now that Sen. Nicole Mitchell has been found guilty, I hope and expect her resignation immediately."
The NLX rail project referenced by Pratt was intended as a passenger rail service between Minneapolis and Duluth but faced criticism over its cost-effectiveness and potential ridership projections. Similar concerns have previously been raised about the Northstar commuter line's performance relative to expectations.
Regarding legislative oversight efforts mentioned by Pratt, there has been ongoing debate within Minnesota's legislature about establishing an independent Office of Inspector General to investigate waste or fraud in state agencies. Some lawmakers have cited significant past financial losses as justification for such reforms.
Senator Nicole Mitchell’s conviction followed legal proceedings related to criminal charges brought against her during her tenure in office.
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