GOP Hopeful Knight Takes Aim at Minnesota's Sanctuary Stance, Vows to Restore 'Rule of Law'

EXCLUSIVE — Minnesota’s sanctuary city policies and a sprawling public benefits fraud case have become central flashpoints in the race to succeed Governor Tim Walz, with Republican candidate Patrick Knight launching a sharp critique of the state’s Democratic leadership.

In an interview, Knight, a former Marine and manufacturing CEO, argued that selective enforcement of laws has undermined stability. "The rule of law isn't a menu," Knight told Fox News Digital. "You can't decide which statutes to follow and which to ignore based on the political winds of the day. This inconsistency is costing Minnesotans their safety, their tax dollars, and their trust."

Knight’s campaign emerges as Minnesota grapples with the aftermath of a massive fraud scheme, allegedly involving billions in stolen federal and state funds, which has drawn increased federal immigration enforcement actions. The heightened tensions have led to protests and tragic clashes, including the deaths of two activists during encounters with law enforcement.

"Every life lost is a tragedy," Knight stated, calling for a transparent, joint investigation. "But the root cause is a failure of governance. For years, state and local leaders have created a chaotic environment by opposing federal immigration efforts, only to later demand cooperation when crises erupt."

He specifically pointed to Governor Walz’s shifting rhetoric, noting that after pledging cooperation with ICE before Congress, Walz later likened the agency to a "modern-day Gestapo." "This kind of political theater is exactly what’s failing our state," Knight said.

Positioning himself as a fixer for a "cratering" state, Knight is promoting a five-point plan focused on the economy, education, affordability, and streamlining government. He describes it as a "big, beautiful, basic, boring" blueprint to steer Minnesota away from political polarization and toward practical solutions.

"We’ve become a case study in mismanagement," he concluded. "It’s a cultural problem that starts at the top. The fix is simple: elect a governor who believes in the rule of law and has the competence to execute it."

Voices from Minnesota

Michael Thorne, 52, Small Business Owner in Bloomington: "Knight’s hitting a nerve. The fraud scandal and the chaos around enforcement are symptoms. We need predictability and competence, not more partisan performances. His military and business background might be what’s needed to reset priorities."

David Chen, 41, Political Science Professor at University of Minnesota: "While Knight’s critique aligns with standard GOP talking points, he’s effectively tying local discontent over fraud and cost-of-living to broader governance failures. The challenge will be translating 'back to basics' into detailed policy that appeals beyond the base in a purple state."

Sarah Jenkins, 38, Community Organizer from Minneapolis: "This rhetoric is dangerous and divisive. Blaming 'sanctuary policies' and immigrant communities for systemic issues scapegoats the vulnerable. The deaths of activists are a direct result of escalated enforcement, not a lack of it. We need compassion and reform, not this kind of fear-mongering."

James O’Malley, 60, Retired Police Sergeant from Duluth: "I may not agree with all his politics, but he’s right about the 'buffet' approach to laws. When leaders send mixed signals, it makes our job on the ground impossible. Clarity and consistency from the top are non-negotiable for public safety."