Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Matt Sepic
Minneapolis

Major law enforcement group endorses Gov. Dayton

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Governor Mark Dayton has again won the backing of a major law enforcement group in his re-election bid.

The Police Officers Federation of Minneapolis -- like many police groups -- has historically endorsed Republicans.

More: Election 2014 | All politics | Policast podcast | Capitol View blog

But federation president John Delmonico said Dayton has always been a strong law enforcement advocate. Delmonico cited Dayton's support for local government aid, which has helped fund police departments across the state.

"One of the first bills he signed was enhancing the penalty for assaulting police dogs. Whenever we've needed him he's been there. He works with us on issues, concerns we have. And he truly understands the job the men and women of the Minneapolis police and police all over the state do every day," Delmonico said.

Earlier this year the governor signed legislation legalizing medical cannabis -- but only after lawmakers crafted a bill that had the support of police groups.

Delmonico said Dayton's support for medical marijuana was not a factor in the federation's endorsement decision, because the group did not take a side on the issue.

Dayton has said law enforcement concerns often factor in to his policy decisions, including his 2012 veto of an aerial fireworks bill.

"I listen carefully when law enforcement says that something is going to have a harmful effect on public safety, and also jeopardizes their lives as they're doing their jobs," he said.

The federation also backed Dayton when he first ran four years ago. Previously it backed Republican Tim Pawlenty.

Dayton is facing challenges this year from Hannah Nicollet of the Independence Party and Republican Jeff Johnson.