I believe in reasonable gun laws based on protecting public safety and preserving personal rights. With that in mind, my position on “Conceal and Carry” legislation has remained consistent with the expert advice of law enforcement authorities I represent.

My vote against the fast-track, never-negotiated 2004 "conceal and carry" legislation which changed the way gun carry permits are processed in the State of Minnesota was based on significant, unanswered safety concerns raised by law enforcement personnel and others. One year after the Minnesota Supreme Court declared the 2004 law invalid, a thoroughly negotiated “Conceal and Carry” compromise bill emerged with substantial support from my local sheriffs and other law enforcement officials. With their concerns addressed, I voted for the 2005 legislation. In addition, it became clear that initial concerns about increased gun violence attributed to changes in the permit system had not materialized.

We must cut through the partisan rhetoric and polarizing hot button issues to focus on what really works in reducing violent crime: Quick and appropriate sentencing; prison programs providing education opportunities; job skills and substance abuse counseling; and community-based initiatives to reintegrate people into the community after they have served their time.

The current Governor has shown no leadership and he has badly misplaced priorities when it comes to safeguarding the public. His irresponsible fiscal policies have reduced the number of police on our streets, and he has stood idly by as crime in our communities has increased. As Governor, I will be fully commit to investing in public safety and reducing crime.