1. United States
2. Minn.
3. Letter

I am writing to request clarification regarding several statements made in your latest newsletter. First, I strongly disagree with your continued support for opening the region near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness to foreign‑owned mining companies. The BWCA is one of Minnesota’s most precious natural resources, and many of us are deeply concerned that sulfide‑ore mining in this watershed poses unacceptable risks to the water, the ecosystem, and the communities that depend on them. I would like a clear explanation of why you believe this level of environmental risk is justified, and how you intend to protect the BWCA from the long‑term consequences of these projects. Second, you referenced “paid agitators.” This is a serious allegation. If you have evidence that individuals or groups are being paid to protest or express opposition, please provide the documentation that supports this claim, including who is allegedly paying them. Minnesotans deserve transparency when such accusations are made by their elected representative. Finally, you urged the public not to rush to judgment and not to “fan the flames” until all the facts are known and the investigation is complete. Yet the Department of Homeland Security has already stated that this was an act of domestic terrorism, and federal authorities have blocked the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension from accessing evidence. Under these circumstances, it is difficult to have confidence that the federal government will conduct an impartial investigation. When the public is told to ignore what they can plainly see, trust erodes. The party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It was their final, most essential command. I look forward to your detailed response to these concerns.