Emmer Addresses Minneapolis Shooting and Mental Health Crisis

House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) stated that the suspect in the Minneapolis shooting “should not have access or could not own a firearm,” citing concerns regarding the shooter’s mental health.

During an interview on ABC’s “This Week,” host Martha Raddatz questioned Emmer about strategies to prevent individuals with mental health issues from committing acts of violence. He expressed that the nation’s mental health crisis is a significant challenge we face today.

Emmer emphasized the importance of reporting individuals who may need assistance to the relevant authorities, clarifying that it’s about providing help rather than punishment. “It’s not about to slap someone, it’s literally trying to help them,” he remarked.

However, Minnesota Republicans highlighted that the shooter, Robin Westman, 23, seemed unaware of his legal capability to acquire firearms based on current regulations.

Westman allegedly opened fire at Announcement Catholic School in Minneapolis while children were present for Mass, using a rifle, shotgun, and pistol. Tragically, two children were killed, and others were injured. Investigators noted the shooter had no prior criminal record.

“There’s something else happening in this state that Martha doesn’t understand,” Emmer commented. “This young man shouldn’t have access based on what we already know. There’s a red flag law here.” He stressed that individuals with emotional or mental challenges should not be allowed to own firearms, as they pose risks to themselves and others.

Raddatz pointed out that Emmer voted against a bipartisan safety law proposed after the Uvalde, Texas school shooting, which aimed to allocate funds for mental health services in schools. Emmer admitted he couldn’t recall why he voted against it.

“I can’t remember why I didn’t vote for that bill,” he stated. “We’ve accomplished a lot for Uvalde, but we can’t bring those kids back. We’re talking about addressing the underlying issues, Martha… we need resources to confront this threat.”

In response to Raddatz’s mention of a law enacted in June 2022, Emmer argued that it could have tackled the root causes effectively.

“It would have identified the mental health issues of this young man, which could have recognized him as a risk to himself and his community before this tragedy occurred,” he concluded.