West Twin Cities

Minnesota State Representative Dawn Gillman has voiced concerns about public safety, mental health care, and government accountability in Minnesota. She described interactions with parents, families, and neighbors who are worried about the lack of protection from the government.

Gillman criticized Governor Tim Walz for what she sees as a lack of effective action on key issues. She referenced the Annunciation tragedy as an example of the consequences of insufficient school security. Gillman noted that despite a significant budget surplus and increased state spending, requests for funding to improve school safety were denied.

"Every student deserves to feel safe in school. Every parent deserves peace of mind," Gillman said.

She also highlighted ongoing struggles with access to mental health resources and repeated incidents involving violent offenders. According to Gillman, "Families are struggling, and the state’s inaction is heartbreaking. Violent criminals continue to hurt our communities, and yet lawmakers spend more time pointing fingers than solving the problem."

Gillman stated that House Republicans have proposed measures including school security upgrades, expanded mental health services, and stricter sentencing for repeat gun offenders.

The statement also addressed recent cases of alleged fraud within state programs overseen by Governor Walz’s Department of Human Services. According to Gillman, payments to 11 disability programs were halted, 17 programs frozen, one provider was charged with autism program fraud, eight people were indicted for housing fraud, and $280 million was at risk in the "Feeding Our Future" program.

"This isn’t just numbers—it’s people who trusted the system and were let down. Minnesotans deserve accountability, not excuses," Gillman said.

Gillman further criticized Governor Walz for not engaging legislators before discussing plans for a special session: "Governor Walz hasn’t even talked to legislators before leaking plans for a special session. Leadership isn’t headlines and political theater. Leadership is rolling up your sleeves and making sure people are safe, cared for, and protected."