Dear Neighbors, Just days after refusing to apologize to Minnesotans who were illegally detained by ICE, Kristi Noem has been fired from her position as Secretary of Homeland Security. Good riddance. Noem’s time overseeing the department included Operation Metro Surge, and her callousness towards our community will not be missed. While there’s no reason to believe the Trump administration has gained a conscience, I find it to be good news whenever anyone involved with terrorizing our state is no longer in a position to do so. In the Minnesota House, we’re still pushing for solutions to help our community and state recover, while also preparing for future instances of overreach from the federal government. My bill prohibiting the use of tear gas and other chemical weapons has been introduced, and I’ll be sure to keep you updated as it goes through the legislative process. Kristi Noem being removed from Homeland Security is good news, but we need to continue to do everything in our power to ensure something like Operation Metro Surge never happens again. Fighting for AffordabilityDespite promises to address affordability, the Trump administration has only grown the wealth disparity in our country. The richest 1% hold a third of the wealth in Minnesota, and their portion continues to grow. All this while everyday Minnesotans struggle to make ends meet. In the Minnesota House, my DFL colleagues and I are working to address the biggest costs facing Minnesota families. Whether that’s health care, child care, housing, energy, or groceries, we’re putting forward solutions where our neighbors can not only afford to just get by, but thrive. |