Political Quotes

“Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of Police Officer Matthew Ruge, a southern Minnesota hero who was one of three first responders shot and killed in the line of duty on February 18. Officer Ruge's life was tragically taken at the young age of 27 while responding to a domestic violence call in Burnsville, Minnesota. Matthew grew up in Read's Landing, a small, tight-knit community just outside Wabasha. From an early age, Matthew knew he wanted to help and protect people. He attended Wabasha-Kellogg High School and was awarded a scholarship for students entering a law enforcement career. Afterward, he completed a police training program at Mankato State University with high honors and, 2 years later, joined the Burnsville Police Department, where he earned the Life Saving Medal and served on the crisis negotiation team. While he didn't like being the center of attention, he had an unwavering commitment to serving others. Officer Matthew Ruge was the very best of law enforcement, always there to help a person on their worst day. My prayers are with his parents, Sean and Christi; his sister, Hannah; and the many friends and family that Matthew touched throughout his life. Officer Ruge was among the best and bravest of southern Minnesota. We will never forget his service and sacrifice. May he rest in peace. Honoring Firefighter-Paramedic Adam Finseth”