Dakota Times

Minnesota State Representative Jeff Witte has returned to his district for the summer and spent the past week engaging with community members at local events and gatherings. Witte described these interactions as central to his role, emphasizing their importance in keeping him connected to the people he serves.

Recently, Witte was recognized by the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association (MPPOA) as Legislator of the Year. He reflected on this honor by recalling his more than 20 years of service in law enforcement prior to entering politics. “To be recognized by the very people who suit up every day, who protect our communities with courage and conviction—it’s humbling beyond words. Before I ever stepped into the legislature, I wore the badge for more than 20 years. I’ve missed holidays, birthdays, and soccer games. I’ve driven into the unknown on a call. I’ve carried the weight and the quiet pride that comes with this job. And I carry all of that with me now as a legislator,” Witte said.

Witte stated that his motivation for running for office was not personal recognition but rather supporting those serving in law enforcement: “I didn’t run for office for recognition. I ran because I know what this work means—and I want to make sure those who serve are heard, respected, and supported.” He referenced bipartisan legislative efforts addressing confusion caused by changes to School Resource Officer laws, drawing on his own experience as an officer in schools.

He also acknowledged recent losses within Minnesota’s public safety community: “This session wasn’t without heartbreak. The loss of Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, and Firefighter/Paramedic Adam Finseth, still hits hard. I didn’t know them personally, but I wore the same patch. We answered the same calls. Naming the Burnsville Parkway Bridge in their honor was just one small way to keep their memory alive — but the real tribute is how we move forward, together.”

Witte thanked colleagues and law enforcement officers statewide: “To my colleagues, to the MPPOA, and most of all, to the officers across Minnesota—thank you. I see you. I honor you. And I’ll never stop fighting for you.”

During a recent Homeowners Association Roundtable at Lakeville City Hall hosted alongside Senator Zach Duckworth, residents engaged directly with officials from various state departments including representatives from both city government and state agencies such as Attorney General’s Office and Commerce Department.

“We had a strong lineup—leaders from the Attorney General’s Office, the Commerce Department, Mayor Luke Hellier, and a packed house of Avonlea residents who showed up ready to speak up and dig in,” said Witte about community participation at this event.

Additionally this week Witte worked with Charter/Spectrum on public service announcements focused on distracted driving prevention as well as support for veterans’ mental health issues.

He also attended Burnsville’s annual Birdies Fore Badges Golf Tournament which supports local first responders—a tradition he described as an important opportunity both for camaraderie among participants and showing appreciation for public safety personnel.

As summer continues toward fall Rep. Witte encouraged constituents to stay engaged: “Please don’t ever hesitate to reach out...Your voice matters, and I’m here to represent you.”