Westrom: Update on protecting Minnesota’s elections

Friends and neighbors,

Today I signed on to a letter asking for Minnesota to be included in a lawsuit against states where there has been potentially unconstitutional election activity.

During session, Secretary of State Steve Simon asked the legislature to significantly expand his authority regarding election law. His requests were rejected. By an overwhelming, bipartisan vote of 66-1, the legislature passed an elections bill that released over $17 million in aid to counties and locals as well as ensured that Minnesotans had the highest confidence in the security of our elections.

When he didn’t get what he wanted, Secretary Simon worked with Democrat interest groups to change how Minnesota’s 2020 election would be conducted on his own, over the expressed will and intent of the legislature. 

I signed the letter because we have to protect the integrity of our election process. The constitution gives the legislature the power to set election laws. If one man takes it upon himself to change those laws as he sees fit, and we do not question it, it sets a dangerous, dangerous long-term precedent.

Regardless of what side of the aisle you are on or what you think of the president, what Secretary Simon did was wrong. There must be accountability for his actions.

Sincerely,

Torrey