BLAINE — A vehicle belonging to a Blaine city councilmember who is also running for the Minnesota House was the target of an overnight vandalism that left photographs of a raised middle finger taped to the windows, according to the candidate and the Blaine Police Department.
The incident took place at about 1:30 a.m. Saturday, when images show four people wearing face coverings applying the pictures to the vehicle’s glass, the candidate posted on social media. Blaine police confirmed they responded to a report and said at the time there was no observable damage to the car.
Candidate seeks information; local leaders condemn act
Leslie Larson, a Republican seeking the seat for Minnesota House District 32B, asked the public to come forward with information after posting pictures and video of the incident. In the footage one of the individuals appears to take a selfie during the act, Larson said.
"It is very disturbing and we would like them found," Larson wrote in the post.
DFL House Leader Zach Stephenson issued a statement condemning the vandalism and urging an investigation, saying the action was unacceptable regardless of motive and noting that candidates and their families deserve safety at home.
"Waking up to news of a disturbing incident in Blaine. I hope the people responsible are caught. While we don't know what the motive was, it's unacceptable regardless and the House DFL condemns it. All candidates and their families deserve peace and safety especially at home."
Police response and next steps
Blaine police have confirmed the incident but said investigators have not yet determined whether the vehicle was targeted because of the owner’s status as a candidate. Authorities reported no visible physical damage to the vehicle during their initial check.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Time reported | About 1:30 a.m., Saturday |
| Victim | Leslie Larson, Blaine City Council member and candidate for HD 32B |
| Police findings | No observable vehicle damage; investigation ongoing |
Investigators ask anyone with information, including individuals who may have seen the act or the people in the video, to contact the Blaine Police Department. The department has not released details about suspects, citing the active nature of the inquiry.
Context within local politics and safety concerns
Vandalism against public officials and candidates, even when not physically damaging property, can raise concerns about intimidation and the safety of those in public life. Local leaders from both parties have at times criticized acts that appear intended to harass or frighten political figures.
For voters and residents in Blaine and Anoka County, the event is a reminder of heightened tensions that can surround election seasons. While authorities have not established a political motive in this case, the visible nature of the act — including use of masks and a recorded selfie — has prompted calls for swift police work.
- Police: No obvious physical damage to the vehicle.
- Candidate: Asked the public to help identify those involved.
- Party leaders: Condemned the action and urged apprehension of those responsible.
What residents should know
Residents with home or business security cameras in the area are asked to review footage from the early-morning hours and to report any suspicious activity. Those with information can contact the Blaine Police Department through its non-emergency line or tip channels.
As investigators follow leads, the case underscores the balance officials must strike between protecting public servants and upholding civic discourse. The Blaine community, meanwhile, awaits further details as police pursue possible witnesses and review the candidate’s posted video for leads.
WE NEWS will monitor the investigation and report updates as police release new information.
