St. Paul Reporter

Minnesota State Representative Jimmy Gordon, a Republican from Isanti, has called for an open and honest discussion on public safety measures in the state. Gordon stated that residents in his district are concerned about how lawmakers plan to address violent crime and ensure children's safety without restricting law-abiding citizens or infringing on Second Amendment rights.

According to Gordon, House Republicans have introduced a legislative package aimed at protecting students, increasing access to mental health care, and holding criminals accountable. He said these proposals should attract bipartisan support. "In fact, a recent MinnPost article noted that DFLers generally support many of our ideas – but they raised concerns about funding," Gordon said.

Gordon questioned why there are budgetary concerns regarding public safety when other areas of government spending continue to grow. He pointed out that less than two years ago, Democrats used an $18 billion surplus, increased state spending by nearly 40 percent, and raised taxes by $10 billion. "But now, with public safety at stake, they suddenly claim there’s no money? That’s completely out of touch with what Minnesotans expect from our state government," he said.

He outlined three main priorities in the House Republican plan: making schools safer, expanding access to mental health care, and ensuring accountability for violent criminals. Gordon also noted that while Governor Tim Walz has suggested the possibility of a special legislative session on public safety issues, neither the governor nor DFL lawmakers have released formal proposals so far.

"That raises questions, especially since such a serious issue deserves transparent, public debate, not a pre-set agenda arranged by the governor and select leaders behind closed doors," he said. Gordon emphasized the need for an open conversation about restoring school security funding blocked by the DFL majority in 2023 and expanding access to mental health resources.

Gordon criticized Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty's recent decision not to prosecute most felony cases arising from non-public safety traffic stops like expired registration or broken taillights. He argued this change could allow some offenders to avoid consequences for their actions: "This effectively gives criminals a free pass and is an insult to law-abiding Minnesotans."

He concluded by encouraging continued feedback from constituents as discussions around public safety proceed: "Please continue reaching out as I keep doing my best to represent you and fight for real solutions."