On the one year anniversary of the Capitol insurrection that was incited by former president Donald Trump, Senate DFL Leader López Franzen and State Government Finance and Policy and Elections Lead Senator Jim Carlson issued the following statements:
“One year ago today, a violent mob incited by former president Trump assaulted our Capitol and attacked the very foundation of our democracy. While their attempt to impede the certification of a free and fair election failed that day, the big lie of a stolen election remains a threat, and remains a talking point for far too many elected Republicans, including in the Minnesota Senate” said Senate DFL Leader López Franzen. “We also must never forget that the attack on our democracy took the lives of brave Capitol police officers who were protecting the integrity of our vote. Those of us who have sworn an oath to our Constitution must live up to it, and in the upcoming Legislative Session our caucus will fight to protect our democracy, free and fair elections, and the freedom to vote.”
“Minnesota has been a national leader in election integrity, security, and turnout because we all share the values of free and fair elections. Elected officials must be honest with their constituents, and yet many Republicans have chosen to cast unfounded doubt on the integrity of our elections and are using these lies to attack the freedom to vote,” said Senator Jim Carlson. “Instead of attacking our institutions and restricting these freedoms, all of us – Democrat, Republican, Independent – should come together to stand for the values of democracy.”