Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher is calling for immediate enhancements to security protocols at the Minnesota State Capitol, citing a rise in politically motivated threats and recent violent incidents targeting public officials.
In a letter addressed to Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, Sheriff Fletcher emphasized the urgency of reassessing current security measures within the Capitol Complex. He referenced the recent killings of Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, at their Twin Cities home—a tragedy Governor Tim Walz described as a “political assassination.”
“Speaker Hortman was always gracious and approachable, and her genuine respect and kindness toward law enforcement were deeply appreciated,” Fletcher wrote. “Her tragic death underscores the pressing need to reevaluate our security strategies to ensure the safety of our public servants and the democratic process.”
Fletcher’s appeal comes amid heightened concerns over the safety of lawmakers and government officials following a series of targeted attacks. The suspect in the Hortman case, Vance Boelter, was apprehended after a statewide manhunt and is believed to have compiled a list of 45 public officials as potential targets.
The sheriff’s call for action aligns with broader discussions among state leaders regarding Capitol security. Governor Walz has suggested that the Legislature reconsider policies allowing individuals to carry firearms inside the Capitol, highlighting the need for a comprehensive review of existing security frameworks.
Currently, the Minnesota State Capitol lacks a centralized security screening process, allowing multiple entry points without metal detectors or uniformed security personnel. This open-access approach, while fostering public engagement, has raised concerns about potential vulnerabilities in the face of escalating threats.
Lawmakers from both parties have expressed support for reviewing and potentially overhauling Capitol security measures. Members of the Advisory Committee on Capitol Area Security have noted that while $19 million has been allocated for security upgrades over the past five years, recent events necessitate a more robust and immediate response.
Sheriff Fletcher’s proposal includes the implementation of enhanced screening procedures, increased presence of trained law enforcement officers, and the establishment of a single point of entry to better monitor and control access to the Capitol Complex.
“The safety of our elected officials, staff, and visitors must be our top priority,” Fletcher stated. “We cannot allow acts of political violence and intimidation to undermine the integrity of our democratic institutions.”
As discussions continue, state officials are expected to convene to evaluate current security protocols and consider the sheriff’s recommendations.
The goal is to develop a comprehensive plan that balances the need for public accessibility with the imperative of ensuring the safety and security of all individuals within the Capitol.
The recent incidents have served as a stark reminder of the evolving nature of threats facing public officials and the importance of proactive measures to safeguard the democratic process. The proposed enhancements aim to address these challenges head-on, reinforcing the state’s commitment to protecting its leaders and citizens alike.
