MPLS Activists: Opposition 'Spread Lies' About Police Proposal

MINNEAPOLIS — On Tuesday, the "Yes On 2" campaign to replace the Minneapolis Police Department was defeated at the ballot box. Minneapolis voters rejected the proposal, with 56 percent voting "no" and 44 percent voting "yes."

After the defeat, Yes 4 Minneapolis — the group of activists that campaigned in favor of replacing the police department — accused their opponents of spreading lies about the proposal.

"We spoke the truth while the opposition, Democrats and Republicans alike, spread lies and mischaracterized our measure to create confusion, distrust, and fear," Corenia Smith, the campaign manager for Yes 4 Minneapolis, said in a statement.

While the proposal ultimately failed, Smith said their group "changed the conversation about what public safety should look like."

"We showed the country and the world the power of democracy and the power of the people," Smith added. "Now, we will work to hold leaders and the system accountable. We will work to heal our city and create safer streets for all our communities."

Meanwhile, Sherral Schmidt — the president of the Minneapolis police union— told KSTP that "we appreciate the supportive community members who recognize the hard work and dedication of the men and women of the Minneapolis Police Department."

"The Police Federation is invested in working with the police department, city leadership and other stakeholders to make the city of Minneapolis a safe place to live visit and work," she said.