SAN JUAN, PR – On July 12, 2024, Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon was chosen by his colleagues nationwide as President of the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS). He was sworn-in at the conclusion of the 2024 NASS Summer Conference in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Founded in 1904, NASS is the nation’s oldest nonpartisan professional organization for public officials. Membership is open to the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and all U.S. Territories.

“NASS is a national treasure – a mature association intended to elevate the work that Secretaries of State do, to share best practices, to learn from one another, to hear from experts – and maybe most importantly to gain perspective,” said Secretary Simon. “NASS connects Secretaries and their staff members across state lines, across party lines, and across lines of difference. I look forward to continuing the tradition of collaboration, unity, and bipartisanship.”  

His term as President will run until the conclusion of the 2025 NASS Summer Conference.  

Secretary Simon will also serve as the co-chair of the NASS 2024-2025 Cybersecurity Committee.

ST. LOUIS PARK – In a groundbreaking moment on Tuesday, November 7th, 2023, St. Louis Park, Minnesota, made history by electing Nadia Mohamed as its new mayor. This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone in American politics, as Mohamed becomes the first Somali-American to be elected as a mayor in the United States. With an impressive 59% of the votes, Mohamed emerged victorious over her opponent, Dale A. Anderson, in the municipal general election.

Background:

Nadia Mohamed’s journey to the mayoral office is a testament to her dedication and commitment to public service. A familiar face in St. Louis Park, Mohamed previously served as the At Large B Council Member, earning the trust and support of the community. Her decision to run for mayor was met with enthusiasm and excitement, setting the stage for a historic campaign.

Historic Election:

The election results, with Mohamed securing 59% of the votes, reflect the widespread endorsement of her candidacy by the residents of St. Louis Park. This resounding victory not only solidifies Mohamed’s place in history but also underscores the community’s embrace of diversity and inclusivity.

Nadia Mohamed’s Vision:

As the newly elected mayor, Nadia Mohamed brings a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience to the position. Throughout her campaign, she emphasized the importance of community engagement, economic development, and creating an inclusive environment for all residents. Mohamed’s vision for St. Louis Park is rooted in unity, equity, and progress.

Succession and Mayor Jake Spano’s Legacy:

Nadia Mohamed steps into the mayoral role to succeed Mayor Jake Spano, who served the community with dedication and distinction. Mayor Spano’s legacy sets a high standard for leadership in St. Louis Park, and Mohamed has expressed her commitment to building upon the progress made under his tenure.

Community Response:

The response to Nadia Mohamed’s historic victory has been overwhelmingly positive. Members of the Somali-American community, as well as residents from diverse backgrounds, celebrate this momentous occasion as a symbol of progress and representation in American politics. Mohamed’s win not only breaks barriers but also inspires a new generation of leaders to pursue public service.

Looking Ahead:

As Mayor-elect Nadia Mohamed prepares to assume office, the city of St. Louis Park anticipates a future marked by collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity. Mohamed’s historic election serves as a beacon of hope and an example of the American dream in action.

Nadia Mohamed’s election as the first Somali-American mayor in the United States is a milestone that transcends local politics. It is a moment of pride, progress, and inspiration for communities across the nation. As St. Louis Park embraces a new era of leadership, Mohamed’s journey stands as a testament to the possibilities that arise when diverse voices are elevated and given the opportunity to lead.

Photos credit: Abdirahman Mukhtar – Tusmo Times

MINNEAPOLIS – Muhyedin Abdiziz Abdirahman has been charged with Attempted 2^nd Degree Murder and 1^st Degree Assault in Hennepin County District Court. These charges stem from an incident (case number 2023- 286216) at Lake Harriet on October 24, 2023, in which Abdirahman fired multiple gunshots at uniformed Park Police Officer Karl Zabinski. The criminal complaint can be accessed here.

Officer Zabinski began his career with the Park Police Department in 2018 as a park patrol agent. In 2020, he was promoted to police officer. Officer Zabinski has received several awards in his time with the Park Police Department, including being named the 2022 Park Police “Officer of the Year.” Officer Zabinski has no record of discipline.

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is thankful that Officer Zabinski was not injured during this violent attack. In addition, it thanks the Minneapolis Police Department for their diligent investigation and assistance throughout this case.

Suspect arrested after shooting at Park Police Officer at Lake Harriet

At 11:56 pm Tuesday, October 24, a Minneapolis Park Police Officer was investigating a suspicious vehicle illegally parked in, and blocking access to, the Lake Harriet boat launch. The incident ended with a 24-year-old male suspect in custody after shots were exchanged. Neither the officer nor the suspect was injured.

The following is based on preliminary information. This preliminary information is subject to clarification by the Minneapolis Park Police or the Minneapolis Police Department as the ongoing investigation into the incident continues.

The Park Police Officer was investigating the suspicious vehicle located in the Lake Harriet boat launch. The vehicle, which was unoccupied, was illegally parked and blocking the boat launch access driveway. As the officer investigated, he was confronted by the suspect, who claimed to own the vehicle. During the investigation, the Officer’s emergency lights were activated. The suspect was immediately uncooperative and became combative with the Officer.

The suspect fired shots in the direction of the officer. The Officer returned fire. Neither the officer nor the suspect was hit; however, the Officer’s squad car was damaged by gunfire.

The suspect fled on foot. The officer called for assistance and both Park Police and Minneapolis Police Department officers responded. The 24-year-old male suspect was located and arrested a short distance away in the vicinity of Lake Harriet.

The crime scene is still active and under investigation.

The Officer wore a body-worn camera that was on and active during the incident.

Park Police Chief Ohotto has requested MPD conduct a criminal investigation into the assault against the Officer and Chief O’Hara has agreed to do so.