BREAKING: Minneapolis voters head to the polls today, July 15, 2025, to decide the future of their city’s leadership, with policing and public safety at the forefront of the election. Incumbent Mayor Jacob Frey faces a crowded field of over a dozen challengers, including progressive candidates Omar Fateh, Jazz Hampton, and DeWayne Davis.
In the aftermath of the murder of George Floyd and subsequent riots, the Minneapolis Police Department has faced unprecedented scrutiny and a significant decline in staffing. Police Chief Brian O’Hara, who took charge in 2022, reported a drop in officers from over 900 to a low of 550. The department has since begun to recover, surpassing 620 sworn officers in June, thanks to aggressive recruitment strategies. However, public trust remains a critical issue, as seen in a recent mass shooting at a homeless encampment.
Voter sentiment is palpable, with early polling indicating Frey as the frontrunner, closely followed by Fateh. This election is not just about choosing a mayor; it’s a referendum on policing strategies in a city grappling with rising crime rates and community safety concerns. Candidates are using ranked choice voting, complicating the dynamics of the race.
While Frey has resisted calls to “defund the police,” Fateh and his allies argue for a shift in responsibilities from police to other public safety departments. The stark contrast in their approaches was evident in a recent debate, where public safety was the first topic addressed. Frey highlighted the need for more officers, while Fateh criticized the mayor for failing to implement meaningful reforms.
Michelle Gross, president of Communities United Against Police Brutality, emphasized the importance of building trust between the police and the community, stating, “The future success of the police will come from building trust with the community.”
The urgency of today’s election is underscored by ongoing federal and state mandates for police reform following the DOJ’s investigation into the department’s practices. The city is under a federal consent decree requiring significant changes, and candidates must navigate this complex landscape as they vie for the mayoral seat.
Local business owners like Jason Fletcher have also expressed mixed feelings about police effectiveness. Fletcher recently experienced two explosive attacks on his business, which he believes were motivated by the LGBTQ Pride flag displayed outside. “I feel like they’ve lost the passion for their job,” he said, acknowledging the challenges faced by officers.
As Minneapolis residents prepare to cast their votes, the outcome of this election will have long-lasting implications for public safety and the future of the police force in this city of over 400,000 people. With the stakes higher than ever, all eyes are on the polls as voters decide the direction of their community.
Stay tuned for updates as results roll in throughout the day. The decisions made today will shape the future of policing and public safety in Minneapolis.
