4 Layers of the Saint Paul Mayor Controversy
We did a rare episode of Mill City Paul, as Robin takes us through four layers of the scandal currently enveloping Mayor Kaohly Her. Her is accused of sexual harrassment and inappropriate workplace behavior. We discussed what this controversy reveals about backstage dynamics in government, as well as dynamics between elected officials and police.
Recorded 7/22/26.
Alert
Though the massive ICE activity dwindled in the Spring, we still face a determined wannabe-fascist regime. Mill City Hall asks you to plug in and take action:
- Donate to rent support and mutual aid funds
- Defend 612 is an entry-point to local neighborhood organizing
- Monarca continues to provide trainings for regular folks who want to help, and offers a hotline to report ICE activity: 612-441-2881
Don't forget to check out:
- Our Instagram account for clips that are easy to browse and share
- Cam's writings in the 2nd Ward Blog
- Ask Robin to do a portrait of your favorite tree
Media Coverage
- Naomi Kritzer's thread compiling allegations - very good, concise rundown of sources
- Dan Suitor posted a Lou Raguse video which lays out some details
- Jana Shortal and Lou Raguse discuss in further depth regarding allegations (very weird hard-pan on this audio, so make sure you have both earbuds in)
- Star Tribune coverage including responses from Her, including the statement:
“The way this is being portrayed in the media does not reflect what I understood to be mutual communication,” Her said in response to questions from the Minnesota Star Tribune. “I am disappointed that I was invited and brought into their space and culture and now this is the outcome. As I stated yesterday, I respect the investigative process and believe it is important to allow it to reach its conclusion.”
Pointergate
We referenced the "Pointergate" controversy from 2014, when the Minneapolis police union targeted then-mayor Betsy Hodges with claims that she shared "gang signs" with a resident in a posed photo. These claims quickly fell apart and the story gained larger prominence as an absurd attempt at a political hit. KSTP, owned by the local rich and conservative Hubbard family, stuck by the report and its reporter, Jay Kolls.
Homeless Encampment Sweep
The day we recorded, the city of Saint Paul was attempting to sweep and close an encampment where over a hundred peopled lived. This manifested a change in direction/policy by Mayor Her.
- Thread of reporting live from the sweep
- MPR interview with Her on plans
- Sahan Journal: council members press for shelter details
- Sahan Journal: advocates raise alarm as St. Paul moves to close three largest encampments
- MSR: Her skips listening session on encampment closure