A Minnesota state representative apologized Wednesday for remarking on the House floor that a rail line connecting north Minneapolis to a state prison in St. Cloud would be "convenient."
"I sincerely apologize," Republican Rep. Jim Newberger said in a prepared statement. "I recognize my comments last night offended some people. I will work in the future to not repeat this mistake."
His comments Tuesday drew sharp rebukes from many, including Gov. Mark Dayton.
Newberger, a paramedic from Becker in his second term, drew boos on the House floor during Tuesday night's debate on the GOP transportation budget when he noted that a proposed study on expanding the Northstar commuter rail line eventually could take the tracks right past the Minnesota Correctional Facility in St. Cloud.
"Boy, wouldn't that be convenient, to have that rail line going from the prison to north Minneapolis?" Newberger said. After members of the chamber booed his comments, he quickly backtracked.
"I'm not casting any aspersions on north Minneapolis," Newberger said. "I know some folks got their ire up, and rightfully so. Sometimes as we're speaking — that's what came into my mind."
Outside the House chambers, the comment got reaction from those who found it offensive and racist.
"It's harmful and hurtful," said Anthony Newby, who lives and works in north Minneapolis and is executive director of Neighborhoods Organizing for Change.
