Interim UpdateFriends and neighbors, The countdown to the 2026 legislative session is officially on—just a little over two weeks to go! And while the last eight weeks have felt anything but calm here in Minnesota, this week finally brought a moment of relief that caught a lot of attention across our state. On Monday morning, President Trump spoke with Governor Walz about working on a plan to lower tensions in Minneapolis. That conversation was welcome—though it shouldn’t take a personal call from the President for Minnesota leadership to recognize the very real consequences of their actions. We truly appreciate the work of our federal partners in stepping up, amplifying Minnesotans’ voices and pushing for safer, more peaceful communities. But let’s not kid ourselves. Nearly everyone agrees that criminal illegal immigrants—including rapists, murderers, gang members, and pedophiles—should be removed from this country immediately. No one wants dangerous criminals on our streets. The focus should be on the most effective way to make that happen. Other states, red and blue alike, have figured out how to work with federal authorities to achieve this goal without chaos or harm. There’s no reason Minnesota can’t do the same. The federal government has both the right and the responsibility to enforce legal immigration. Watching our governor and other elected officials make irresponsible— and at times deceitful—statements has been deeply concerning. When rhetoric starts pouring gasoline on already volatile situations, ordinary citizens are left wondering whether violence is being excused. That is unacceptable, and it must stop. Minnesotans deserve leaders who are cool-headed, measured, and thoughtful. Frankly, a little more thinking and a lot less reckless talk would go a long way.  I was also encouraged by White House Border Czar Tom Homan’s remarks Thursday morning. They reflect the kind of thoughtful reassessment many communities have been calling for—one that prioritizes de-escalation, responsible rhetoric, and a focused approach to addressing violent crime. He was clear that immigration enforcement is not about releasing public safety risks back into our streets— it’s about getting them off, and he emphasized the importance of lawful cooperation between state agencies and federal authorities. You can watch his full press conference by clicking on the photo above. Precinct Caucuses, Feb. 3! Our government works best when citizens are informed and engaged! Precinct caucuses are one of the easiest ways to get involved and make your voice heard. This year’s precinct caucuses will be held on February 3. Learn more and find your caucus location [here]. The Heart of MinnesotaI want to close out this week’s newsletter by sharing a story of Minnesota at its best. At a time when the media too often chooses to paint our state in an incredibly poor light, it’s important to hold onto the moments that remind us who we truly are. On the evening of January 21, a 7-year-old girl from Zimmerman was abducted outside her home after getting off the school bus. As a parent, there are few sentences more frightening than that one. As word of her disappearance spread, the response from the community was immediate and overwhelming. At one point during the search, the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office shared, “We have more volunteers than we need.” In a moment filled with fear and uncertainty, our community responded with compassion, courage, and an unmistakable sense of togetherness. When a child went missing, neighbors showed up for neighbors—without hesitation, without being asked, and without expecting anything in return. Law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency responders worked tirelessly, joined by hundreds of volunteers who stepped forward simply because it was the right thing to do. Some walked, others drove, many went door to door—each one playing a role in bringing hope to a terrifying situation. One volunteer put it best: “We didn’t need to know her. As responders, parents, and neighbors, we refused to stop until she was found.” That statement says everything. It speaks to the strength of our public safety professionals and the deep, instinctive compassion of the communities they serve. It’s a powerful reminder that even in our most difficult moments, Minnesotans rise—together. I am deeply grateful to every first responder, volunteer, and neighbor who answered the call. This is what community looks like. This is the very best of Minnesota. As we approach the start of the 2026 legislative session, moments like this stay with me. They remind me that the true strength of our state isn’t found only in laws or policies, but in people—neighbors who show up, volunteers who step forward, and first responders who never hesitate to protect one of our own. That spirit of care, courage, and responsibility is what guides my work every day, and it’s what I strive to reflect in the decisions I make on your behalf. Sincerely, Representative Erica Schwartz Minnesota House of Representatives, District 18A |