Photo Credit: Minnesota Republican Party
ST. PAUL, M.N. (KELO.com) – The Republican Party of Minnesota has been forced to hire off-duty law enforcement officers to protect its staff, their volunteers, candidates, and visitors at the party’s State Fair booth.
The extra security comes after concerns about political violence and reports of a potential confrontation involving rival gangs.
Below is an issued news release from the Minnesota Republican Party.
NEWS RELEASE:
ST. PAUL – The Republican Party of Minnesota has hired off-duty law enforcement officers to protect its staff, volunteers, candidates, and visitors at the party’s Minnesota State Fair booth amid heightened concerns about political violence and reports of a potential confrontation involving rival gangs.
Ron Schutz, Republican nominee for attorney general:
“Sheriff Bob Fletcher, State Fair police, and law enforcement officers are using every tool available to protect Minnesota families. They deserve our gratitude and support. They should never have been forced into this position by political leaders who have spent years undermining police and failing to hold violent criminals accountable.
“Keith Ellison has spent years cozying up to fraudsters. Now his office is negotiating the terms under which alleged gang members may attend the State Fair. As attorney general, I will prosecute criminals—not negotiate the rules under which they can threaten public safety.
“I have spent my career winning in the courtroom for victims. I will bring that same fight to the attorney general’s office and win prosecutions for the people of Minnesota. Violent gang members do not belong at the State Fair. They belong behind bars.”
Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman Alex Plechash:
“Because of the increase in political violence and the potential threat from rival gangs at the State Fair, the Minnesota Republican Party has hired off-duty law enforcement officers to protect our staff, volunteers, candidates, and everyone who visits our booth. We will take every reasonable step necessary to keep people safe.
“It should never have come to this. Sheriff Bob Fletcher, State Fair police, and officers across Minnesota are doing everything they can while Tim Walz, Keith Ellison, and Amy Klobuchar have spent years fueling anti-police rhetoric, tying officers’ hands, and making their jobs more difficult.
“Now Ellison wants credit for seeking a court order after gang violence was reportedly being planned openly online. That is like an arsonist asking for applause for calling the fire department.
“And where is Amy Klobuchar? Perhaps she is still deciding whether she prefers the Minnesota State Fair or the Iowa State Fair. Wherever she lands, Minnesotans can expect the same silence, the same excuses, and the same failed approach to public safety.
“Minnesota families should not need armed security or an eleventh-hour court order to feel safe enjoying the State Fair. Ron Schutz will back our cops, prosecute criminals, and take Minnesota back from the politicians who let this happen.”
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