SAINT PAUL, Minn. – As we approach the one-year anniversary of the violent attack on the United States Capitol, House DFLers released the following statements, reaffirming their commitment to protecting our democracy and the freedom to vote:
“The violence we witnessed on January 6, 2021, threatened the very foundation of our democracy by putting at risk the peaceful transition of power pursuant to a free and fair election,” said House Speaker Melissa Hortman. “Defending our democracy should be above party or politics, but we continue to see Republicans across the country working to restrict voting rights and silence the voices of the people. We are committed to strengthening our democracy and protecting our elections from future violence and sabotage.”
“What America witnessed one year ago was a violent mob attacking the United States Capitol in a pathetic attempt to overthrow an American election,” said House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler. “This violent attack changed our nation, and reminded us that we can never take free elections for granted. All Americans need to respect the rule of law, and Republicans should stand with Democrats against violence in our politics.”
Shortly after the attempted insurrection, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed House Resolution 1 on an 111-8 vote. The resolution condemns violence and violent rhetoric directed at the U.S. Capitol and state capitols and affirms support for our democracy, rule of law, and the certified results of the 2020 election.
“The deadly attack on our nation’s Capitol showed us all how fragile our democracy is,” said Rep. Emma Greenman (DFL - Minneapolis), who introduced legislation to defend and strengthen democracy last year. “Over the last year, the disinformation and election conspiracies that fueled the insurrection have spread, undermining voters and exposing our trusted local elections officials to threats and violence. This is a make-or-break moment, and none of us can sit silently on the sidelines. We must work together to protect free and fair elections and ensure that Minnesotans of every race, background, and political persuasion have the freedom to vote.”