House GOP Statement Regarding Protest and Public Safety

ST. PAUL, MN – House Speaker Lisa Demuth, R-Cold Spring, and Republican Floor Leader Harry Niska, R-Ramsey, released the following statements today:

“Today we had another tragic loss of life, and I am heartbroken for the loved ones affected,” said Speaker Demuth. “As we saw yesterday, thousands of Minnesotans were able to peacefully demonstrate without a single incident. Unfortunately there are still too many political leaders urging direct confrontation including the attempted disruption of law enforcement operations and throwing of dangerous objects. These dangerous tactics put lives of officers and the public at risk. We can have protest. We can have lawful monitoring of ongoing law enforcement operations. But it’s going to take leadership at all levels of government to turn down the temperature. I spoke earlier this week with Vice President Vance, who expressed both publicly and privately a sincere desire to foster better cooperation between the federal government and state and local officials.”

Leader Niska added:

“Escalation, violent rhetoric, and demonization has put the lives of Minnesotans and law enforcement alike in danger. It’s time to work together to remove violent criminals from our communities and ensure the safety of all Minnesotans. Knee-jerk reactions demanding confrontation instead of cooperation are putting everyone at risk. Minnesotans know how to exercise their constitutional right to peacefully protest and make their voices heard. It’s time to display real leadership and act in the best interests of all Minnesotans.”