Kendall Qualls Chastises Governor Walz for Being “Late to the Party” with Plan to Tackle Crime

MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier this week Governor Tim Walz met with city leaders and first responders to promote his plan to invest in public safety efforts. This effort comes after a month filled with violence including a 14 year old girl raped in her home, 5 rounds fired at police, a 15 year old killed, school bus driver shot in front of students on board, and a double homicide. Republican gubernatorial candidate Kendall Qualls issued the following statement chastising the Governor for failing to address the rise in crime sooner despite record statistics. 

“As per usual, our weak governor is late to the party with a plan to tackle crime. Meanwhile the Twin Cities and surrounding suburbs have been under siege from criminals for well over two years. Last summer nine Minneapolis children were victims of gun violence leaving many residents outraged by the lack of support from the governor’s office. Calling Minneapolis a “war zone,” community members even issued a letter to the Governor requesting national guard or state trooper assistance. 

I grew up in this kind of environment in Harlem and later in a trailer park and let me tell you, it’s dangerous and it takes a toll on families just trying to survive. My life story and experience has shaped me into the leader I am today, which is why I am a strong supporter of our law enforcement and believe they need extra assistance to handle the crime surge allowed throughout Walz’s tenure. 

It’s unfortunate that residents are only now hearing their cries for help answered on account of it being an election year and Walz’s dwindling approval rating. This behavior is not indicative of a real leader. It’s obvious that Walz isn’t serious about crime, and like a typical politician he’s only worried about poll numbers and remaining in power.”