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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACT:
Dominica Bernstein, 651.297.8150
Dominica.Bernstein@house.mn.gov
News Release
Representative Jeff Witte Named MPPOA Legislator of the Year
ST. PAUL – On Thursday, the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association (MPPOA) announced that Representative Jeff Witte (R-Lakeville), has been named their 2025 Legislator of the Year.
“I’m incredibly honored to receive this recognition from MPPOA,” said Rep. Witte. “This award means so much because it comes from the people I’ve stood shoulder to shoulder with — the men and women who know what it’s like to answer the call, no matter the hour or the danger. My time in uniform shaped who I am. Now, as a legislator, my mission is to make sure our officers have the support, respect, and resources they deserve. This award isn’t just for me — it’s for every peace officer who puts on the badge and serves with courage and heart.”
Before being elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives, Rep. Witte spent nearly 30 years serving the Burnsville Police Department—as a Community Service Officer, Patrol Officer, School Resource Officer, and Sergeant department leader. For 18 years, he also served as the team leader for the Emergency Action Group’s Crisis Negotiation Team. He now brings that firsthand experience to his work on the House Public Safety Finance and Policy Committee, among others.
Witte has emerged as a leading voice for law enforcement at the Capitol. He championed bipartisan efforts to clarify confusing state laws that had sidelined School Resource Officers across Minnesota — a mission close to his heart as a former SRO himself. He’s also led initiatives to improve officer training, secure critical support for those injured in the line of duty, and authored legislation honoring Burnsville’s fallen heroes by naming a local bridge in their memory.
“Jeff’s heart has always been with the people — with families, students, and the officers who protect them,” said Speaker of the House Lisa Demuth (R-Cold Spring). “He doesn’t just talk about public safety — he lives it. MPPOA made an excellent choice in honoring him, and I know he’ll continue working tirelessly to support those who keep our communities safe.”
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