Minneapolis, MN — July 20, 2025

In a moment both historic and symbolic, State Senator Omar Fateh has secured the Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party endorsement for mayor of Minneapolis, becoming the first Somali American to do so. His victory is more than a political milestone; it is a generational culmination of a vision first championed 25 years ago by Mohamud Wardhere — the trailblazer who paved the way.

Fateh’s endorsement not only reshapes the political landscape of Minneapolis but also casts a bright spotlight on the long journey of Somali American civic participation in Minnesota. For many in the community, it is impossible to talk about this triumph without honoring the bold, historic run of Mohamud Wardhere in 2001, the first Somali American ever to run for elected office in Minnesota.

“Mohamud Wardhere ran when there was no playbook, no political infrastructure, and no established support system,” said Hashi Shafi, a local organizer and community leader. “He took that first step so others could run faster and farther.”

In 2001, just years after a wave of Somali immigrants began settling in Minnesota, Wardhere dared to dream what many considered unthinkable: running for mayor of Minneapolis. At a time when the Somali American community was still finding its footing in a new country, Wardhere’s candidacy sent a powerful message, that civic engagement was not just a right, but a responsibility.

“He made us believe that we belonged in the conversation,” said Senator Fateh in a statement following his endorsement. “His courage and vision inspired generations of Somali Americans to see themselves not just as voters, but as leaders.”

Wardhere’s campaign lacked the institutional backing that today’s candidates often rely on — there were no large donor networks, political consultants, or broad coalitions behind him. But what he did have was conviction: a belief that democracy thrives when all voices are heard, including those of new Americans.

Today, with the DFL’s endorsement in hand, Omar Fateh stands on that very foundation. Since being elected to the Minnesota Senate in 2020, Fateh has championed progressive policies on housing, education, and equity. His candidacy for mayor brings with it a new generation of leadership informed by grassroots activism and a deep connection to Minneapolis’s most diverse communities.

By Abdirahman Mukhtar, Tusmo Times Editor in chief

Governor Walz Announces Reopening of Stone Arch Bridge

[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger today announced the reopening of the Stone Arch Bridge to pedestrians and bicyclists, nearly three months ahead of schedule. The bridge was partially closed in 2024 for preservation and rehabilitation work.

“Today we celebrate the hard work and collaboration of so many who finished this project months ahead of schedule,” said Governor Walz. “The Stone Arch Bridge isn’t just one of the most visited park destinations in Minnesota – it connects people, businesses, and neighborhoods. I personally can’t wait for my first run across it. Welcome back to the Stone Arch!”

“We want to sincerely thank the community for its support and patience as we worked to restore this important recreational site and connection between downtown Minneapolis and the Northeast Minneapolis communities,” said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger. “When we began this project in spring 2024, we anticipated it would take two years to complete due to the bridge’s condition. Reopening this historic Mississippi River crossing months ahead of schedule is a major accomplishment—with real impacts for those who walk or bike to work, local businesses that depend on foot traffic, and everyone who enjoys our riverfront spaces. This restoration extends the life of the bridge for decades, preserving its beauty, craftsmanship, and purpose for future generations.”

The Stone Arch Bridge, spanning the Mississippi River on the edge of downtown Minneapolis, has been partially closed since April 2024 to allow construction crews to repair and replace stone and mortar, and make other repairs as needed. Stone repair and mortar replacement will slow deterioration and improve the condition of the bridge.

The public is invited to attend a free, family-friendly event on Saturday, August 9, to celebrate the reconnection of communities on both sides of the bridge. This event hosted by MnDOT and community partners will include food trucks, live entertainment, interactive activities for all ages, and a demonstration of construction materials and historic facts.

Find more information on the Stone Arch Bridge project webpage: mndot.gov/metro/projects/stonearchbridge.

By Abdirahman Mukhtar, Staff Reporter

MINNEAPOLIS — City leaders are pressing forward with sweeping police reforms in Minneapolis, undeterred by the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) unexpected motion to dismiss a proposed consent decree. The move comes just days ahead of the five-year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder and more than four months after the DOJ and the City jointly filed the agreement in federal court.

Mayor Jacob Frey, Police Chief Brian O’Hara, and Community Safety Commissioner Todd Barnette reaffirmed their commitment Tuesday to fully implementing the reforms, regardless of whether the decree is upheld in court.

“We’re doing it anyway,” said Mayor Frey. “We will implement every reform outlined in the consent decree—because accountability isn’t optional. Our independent monitor has praised the meaningful progress we’ve already made, and residents will continue to see measurable, transparent improvements.”

On January 6, the City and DOJ filed a proposed consent decree outlining reforms to Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) policies, training, and resources. The decree was designed to work in tandem with the City’s existing settlement agreement with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR), forming the backbone of long-term efforts to overhaul policing in Minneapolis.

In the months since, the DOJ requested and received three consecutive 30-day stays in court proceedings. On Tuesday, the DOJ filed a motion to dismiss the case. The final decision now rests with the federal judge overseeing the matter.

Progress Recognized in First-Year Monitoring Report

A new report released this week by Effective Law Enforcement for All (ELEFA)—the independent evaluator of the MDHR agreement—lauds Minneapolis for making “more progress toward building a foundation for sustainable reform in the first year of monitoring than nearly any other jurisdiction” under similar oversight.

The report details substantial accomplishments, including improved department policies, comprehensive training plans, enhanced officer wellness programs, and the near-elimination of a backlog of misconduct complaints.

Chief O’Hara emphasized the department’s determination to continue the work: “We have already achieved more in one year than many departments do under a full consent decree. But we’re not stopping there. We are committed to going beyond the baseline to create lasting, meaningful change. Our goal is to make MPD the best police department in the country.”

Support for Officers, Stronger Public Trust

City officials argue that the reforms are not only compatible with effective law enforcement but essential to restoring community trust and enhancing officer well-being. Since entering the MDHR agreement in 2023, Minneapolis has seen:

• A significant drop in violent crime
• A marked increase in police officer morale
• A surge in applications and recruitment
• Greater leadership stability within MPD

Commissioner Barnette underscored the City’s resolve: “The federal case isn’t over until the judge rules, but one thing is certain—we will continue this work. The reforms outlined in the consent decree are already reflected in our state agreement, and we are determined to move forward, with or without federal backing.”

Despite political pushback from the Trump administration, which has criticized consent decrees as detrimental to policing, Minneapolis leaders maintain that reform is essential and achievable.

“We are proving that you can improve public safety and police accountability at the same time,” said Frey. “And that’s exactly what we intend to keep doing.”

The City has already begun implementing the reforms and will continue to do so, regardless of the court’s final decision on the federal decree.

Watch the full press conference on the City of Minneapolis YouTube channel.