ST. PAUL — A longtime Republican lawmaker is calling on House DFL Minority Leader Melissa Hortman to resign.
Rep. Greg Davids, R-Preston, said he was deeply offended by a remark made by Hortman during a House floor debate on Monday night over whether criminal penalties should be increased for protesters that block freeway, airport or transit access.
At one point during the debate, Hortman asked for a call of the House, which requires members to return to their desks. She added, "I hate to break up the 100 percent white male card game in the retiring room, but I think this is an important debate."
Davids said Hortman's comment went too far.
"I was greatly offended by Hortman's racist statement about white males. I believe her comments have created a very hostile working environment," Davids said.
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During the debate, Rep. Bob Dettmer, R-Forest Lake, asked Hortman to apologize for her remark. She responded that she had "no intention of apologizing." She said she was frustrated to see so many lawmakers had left the room during important legislative speeches.
She added, "I am really tired of watching women of color in particular be ignored. So I'm not sorry."
