MAY 30, 2020

Dear Fourth District Constituent,

We have reached an unprecedented moment in the history of our community and state. The protests seeking justice for George Floyd have been co-opted by extremists, anarchists, and organized agitators determined to loot, burn, and create chaos.

St. Paul was attacked, family businesses destroyed, and our residents put in danger. Yesterday, I toured the destruction and was horrified. Despite the destruction, I am grateful there was no loss of life.

Touring the site of Lloyd's Pharmacy on Snelling Ave. in St. Paul, May 29, 2020.

Right now, St. Paul and Minneapolis are under serious threat and the top priority must be to protect our citizens. People are afraid, and almost all neighborhood businesses are closed and boarded - including grocery stores and pharmacies. We are already challenged by COVID-19, but now we have violent outside elements attacking our cities.

I support Governor Walz's decision to fully mobilize the Minnesota National Guard. The mayhem in Minneapolis must not be allowed to spill over into surrounding communities. Tonight's curfew must be respected by our citizens and enforced by the authorities. I support our National Guard, State Patrol, and all of our first responders who are protecting lives, property, and the streets of our cities.

There are forces, domestic and foreign, determined to sow dissension and undermine our democracy. These forces are at work right now in our community and they must be stopped. Minnesotans must stand united to restore order, peace, and take back our Twin Cities.

You can find all of my public statements at . Please stay safe and stay at home.

Thank you,

Betty McCollum
Member of Congress