Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my appreciation to the St. Louis County Rescue Squad and Sheriff's Office for their dedication to responding to emergency situations and to mourn the loss of two Minnesotans. Recently, they responded to a tragic accident where a party of four canoeists went over a waterfall in the Boundary Waters, and two went missing. One of the missing canoeists, Jesse Haugen of Cambridge, was a constituent of mine. Jesse heroically attempted to save his fellow canoeists before going under himself. Jesse's bravery was no surprise to anyone who knew him, especially given his military background. Mr. Speaker, the Boundary Waters are remote, making any rescue attempt complex. During this time of the year, high water levels and fast currents made these efforts even more difficult. Jesse Haugen and Reis Grams both tragically died, but I am grateful to the St. Louis County Rescue Squad and Sheriff's Office for staying on the scene for 2 weeks until both men were located. Thanks to their determination and professionalism, the families of Jesse and Reis can now have closure, and I will continue to pray for them and our St. Louis County Sheriff's Rescue Squad. ____________________”