Republican party leaders denounce threats made against Rep. Franson of Alexandria

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Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman Pat Shortridge and Deputy Chairwoman Kelly Fenton issued the following statement today in response to harassing phone calls, emails, and a planned protest Saturday at the home of State Representative Mary Franson.

"Today is a sad day in Minnesota, with malicious, hate-filled attacks threatening physical violence against Rep. Franson and her three children.

"This might be the kind of Chicago-style politics that has, unfortunately, infected too many corners of public life, but it sure isn’t the Minnesota way.

"During a week when we've had a national discussion about the nature and tone of our national political debate, this shameful episode demonstrates that a segment of the left isn't actually interested in elevating the tone of our dialogue, but in waging political warfare against political opponents.

"As parents, we could not imagine receiving these horrific emails at our homes, where our children live. The irresponsible campaign unleashed by partisan Democrats and groups like the Alliance for a Better Minnesota has led to a threatening situation for Representative Franson and her family.

"Threats of sexual assault and physical violence against an elected Representative and her children isn't free speech and it isn't just wrong, it's criminal, and if the cowards can be identified, they should be punished.

"Regardless of our beliefs, regardless of our differences, we have to treat one another with respect and basic decency. We hope Minority Leader Thissen and Governor Dayton will denounce these vile attacks, call Representative Franson to offer support, and help restore some degree of civility to our public debate."

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