Statement from Phillip C. Parrish, Candidate for Governor of Minnesota 2026
Fellow Minnesotans,
As we approach the 2026 gubernatorial election, it is imperative that we address the substantiated concerns that threaten the safety, sovereignty, and well-being of our state. Recent revelations have exposed a disturbing network of radical ideologies, international influences, and institutional ties that undermine our values and security. As your candidate for Governor, I am committed to confronting these issues head-on and implementing both immediate and long-term actions to protect Minnesota.
Substantiated Concerns:
1. Radical Ideological Infiltration: We have seen evidence of groups like Armed Queers SLC, led by individuals honored by State Department-affiliated NGOs, being investigated for potential involvement in acts of violence against public figures. This is not just an isolated incident; it reflects a broader pattern of radical ideologies gaining traction within our communities, often under the guise of social justice or international development goals. The timing of these events, juxtaposed with public statements from current leadership, raises alarming questions about the climate of rhetoric that may embolden such actions.
2. International Influence and Agenda: The deep integration of Minnesota’s institutions, such as the University of Minnesota, with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) raises serious questions about the autonomy of our state policies. While global cooperation is important, we must ensure that it does not compromise our local priorities or expose us to extremist elements. The honor bestowed upon individuals like Ermiya Fanaeian by a State Department-affiliated NGO, despite their radical affiliations, underscores the need for vigilant oversight of these international engagements.
3. Security Threats: The investigation into Armed Queers SLC for possible foreknowledge of Charlie Kirk’s assassination attempt is a grave concern. This incident underscores the need for robust security measures and vigilant oversight of organizations that may pose risks to public safety. The suspicious timeline connecting these events to public statements by current leadership, such as Governor Tim Walz’s comment on September 2, 2025, about hoping for Donald Trump’s death, suggests a troubling pattern of rhetoric that could normalize or incite violence against political opponents.
4. Data Privacy and Surveillance: The mention of Esri, described as having ties to intelligence agencies, and its collaboration with the U.S. Census Bureau during the COVID-19 pandemic has heightened concerns about data privacy. Minnesotans deserve transparency and protection regarding how their personal information is used, especially in times of crisis. This concern is amplified by the broader context of international influence and the potential for misuse of data in aligning with controversial agendas.
5. Economic and Social Impact: Policies influenced by international agendas, such as those promoted by the Brookings Institution, may not align with the needs of Minnesotans. We must prioritize local economic growth, community development, and resource allocation that reflects our state’s unique challenges and opportunities. The timing of Governor Walz’s campaign launch on September 16, 2025, criticizing Trump without addressing his own earlier statements, suggests a possible strategy to deflect from the controversy surrounding his rhetoric and its potential impact on public safety.
Immediate Actions:
To confront these issues urgently, I propose the following immediate actions:
• Enhanced Security Protocols: Implement stringent background checks and monitoring for organizations receiving state funding or recognition, especially those with radical affiliations. This includes a thorough review of all NGOs and community groups to ensure they do not pose security risks. We must also investigate the influence of public rhetoric on these groups, particularly in light of recent events.
• Transparency in International Engagements: Demand full disclosure from state institutions regarding their involvement with international organizations like the UN. This includes public hearings and reports on how SDGs are being integrated into state policy and education. We must ensure that such engagements do not inadvertently support or legitimize extremist elements.
• Data Privacy Legislation: Enact emergency legislation to protect Minnesotans’ data privacy, ensuring that any collaboration with tech firms or government agencies during emergencies is subject to strict oversight and consent protocols. This legislation will also address the broader implications of data use in the context of international influence.
• Community Engagement: Launch a statewide initiative to engage communities in dialogue about these concerns, providing platforms for Minnesotans to voice their anxieties and contribute to solutions. This will include town halls and digital forums to foster transparency and trust, especially in the wake of controversial public statements by state leadership.
Long-Term Actions:
To eliminate these issues permanently and safeguard Minnesota’s future, we must undertake the following long-term strategies:
• Educational Reform: Overhaul the curriculum and governance of state universities to ensure they prioritize Minnesota’s interests and values over international agendas. This includes establishing a board to review and approve all international partnerships and funding, with a focus on preventing the endorsement of radical ideologies.
• Legislative Oversight: Create a permanent legislative committee dedicated to monitoring and regulating the activities of NGOs and community groups within Minnesota. This committee will have the authority to investigate, audit, and recommend actions against groups that threaten public safety or democratic principles. It will also assess the impact of public rhetoric on these groups and propose measures to mitigate such influences.
• Economic Localization: Develop a comprehensive economic plan that focuses on local job creation, small business support, and infrastructure development, reducing reliance on international policy frameworks that may not serve our state’s best interests. This plan will prioritize community-driven initiatives that reflect Minnesotan values and needs.
• Security Infrastructure: Invest in a robust security infrastructure that includes advanced threat assessment tools, community policing strategies, and partnerships with federal agencies to prevent and respond to extremist activities. This infrastructure will also address the potential risks posed by inflammatory rhetoric from state leadership.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch ongoing public awareness campaigns to educate Minnesotans about the risks of radical ideologies and the importance of vigilance in preserving our state’s sovereignty and safety. These campaigns will empower citizens to report concerns and participate in safeguarding our community, while also addressing the impact of political rhetoric on public discourse.
Minnesotans, the time for action is now. We cannot allow our state to be swayed by extremist elements or compromised by international agendas that do not reflect our values. The suspicious timeline connecting recent events to public statements by current leadership demands our immediate attention. As your Governor, I will lead with transparency, decisiveness, and a commitment to putting Minnesota first. Together, we will confront these challenges and build a safer, stronger future for all.
Thank you.
Phillip C. Parrish
Candidate for Governor of Minnesota 2026
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