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Unbelievable.

On day one of his administration, Mr. Trump issued blanket pardons or commuted the sentences of 1,500 rioters who were convicted or facing consequences for their actions on Jan. 6, 2021. Among those pardoned were people who pushed, punched and beat the police officers who were defending the capitol. Rioters used U.S. flags, baseball bats, tasers, batons, brass knuckles and shields to assault the police who were at the Capitol to protect our senators and Congresspeople and to protect the lawful handoff of power.

Many police were injured. Some died. This was outrageous!

But don’t take my word for it. Brian O’Hara, chief of Police in Minneapolis, in this past Sunday’s Minnesota Tribune wrote an editorial saying, “These pardons not only undermine justice, but they devalue the service and sacrifices made by these officers.” He goes on to say, “Make no mistake, this decision will come back to haunt us. The message it sends is dangerous: that violence against police can be excused if it serves a favored political agenda.” He ends with, “For the families of offices who made the ultimate sacrifice, the pardons are a very harsh slap in the face.”

I believe that no matter our political affiliation, we need to let our federal and state representatives know that these pardons are reckless, dangerous and insulting.

Congressman Brad Finstad (507-577-6141), Sen. Tina Smith (202-224-5641), and Sen. Amy Klobuchar (202-224-3244) all have offices where you can talk to someone or leave a message.

Please do so today.

Ted Hinnenkamp
Albert Lea