Minneapolis 'Progressive' Mayor Fears For His Life After Death Threats From Left-Wing Activists

The threats come almost three years after the police-involved death of George Floyd, which caused unrest in the city. Frey and Clarke told the Star Tribune they had been subjected to violent messages and vandalism.

"I think right now is probably the most concerned I've ever been about Jacob's physical safety since he's been in office," Clarke said. Frey added that public officials are changing their positions out of fear for themselves or their families. "Taking a position against this kind of thing should not be hard," he said. "It should be a prerequisite for entering public service. Part of what we uphold is the institution of democracy. This is an attack on our ability to exercise democracy."

March 13, 2023

In February, Frey highlighted the physical threats and intimidation activists had directed at three Minneapolis City Council members who did not vote in their favor. During a council meeting, the left-wing activists became angry over the planned demolition of a vacant building, citing racial justice and environmental concerns. They reportedly yelled profanities, reached over the dais where the members were seated, and banged on walls and doors outside the mayor's offices.

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Frey tweeted, "Local governments face no shortage of tough issues to debate. Ensuring the safety of elected officials and sanctity of the democratic process shouldn't be one. Would we accept this from far-right, pro-gun, anti-abortion people? No, because it's wrong."

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A couple of months ago, Frey’s apartment building was vandalized when “Kill the mayor” graffiti was painted. A few days later, the “Kill the Mayor Pt. 2” was graffitied on the building’s entrance.

According to Frey and Clarke, the recent threats are coming from the far left, while the threats during the era of COVID lockdowns were coming from the far right. They believe the most recent wave of threats comes from a small group of people objecting to city policies regarding homeless encampments and the city's plans to demolish the Roof Depot to expand an adjacent public works facility in the East Phillips neighborhood.

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"We've been debating on whether or not we will try to have another kid. There's no room in our apartment, so we'd need a house, but we'd worry about our security in a house and for our neighbors... I feel really fortunate that our child is 2 right now. I really don't know how we'll explain this to her when she gets older," Clarke said.