As we gather with family and friends this 4th of July, we do so with heavy hearts—and a renewed sense of purpose.
We are still reeling from the devastating loss of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and the violent attack on Senator Hoffman and his wife. These acts of political violence are a painful and frightening reminder that our democracy is not only fragile—it is under attack.
This is not what America is meant to be. Our democracy should be a beacon of freedom, safety, and justice. Instead, we are facing rising threats, extremist rhetoric, and dangerous efforts to dismantle the very systems that protect our civil and human rights.
The recent passage of a deeply partisan tax bill—pushed through with only GOP support—is just the latest example. Major legislation with sweeping consequences passed without bipartisan input undermines public trust and weakens the foundation of representative democracy. When power is used not to govern collectively but to divide and dominate, we all lose.
In this time of grief, we also find clarity. If we are to honor the lives and legacies of those we’ve lost—and if we are to defend the country we love—we must act. That means defending and building a democracy that truly reflects the will, diversity, and dignity of the people.
At FairVote Minnesota, we believe that ranked choice voting is one of the most powerful reforms we can advance to do just that. It gives voters more voice and power. It rewards leaders who build coalitions, not divisions. And it helps create a political culture rooted in respect, accountability, and inclusion.
Want to help expand the movement? There are so many ways to get involved:
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Volunteer with us at events across Minnesota, including The Great Minnesota Get-Together
- Help us engage and educate voters in RCV cities: Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington, Minnetonka and St. Louis Park.
- Write a letter to the editor in your local paper.
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Start a local FairVote MN chapter in your community!
