Minnesota House majority leader considering run for Hennepin County attorney

Minnesota House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler is "strongly considering" run for Hennepin County attorney next year.

State of play: Longtime County Attorney Mike Freeman announced last week that he won't seek another term in 2022.

What he's saying: Winkler told Axios a top priority would be rebuilding trust in law enforcement and criminal justice systems.

• "Addressing the ways that we over-police certain communities and the disparities in arrest rates and prosecutions is essential," the Golden Valley Democrat said.

Of note: Winkler doesn't support the police charter amendment on this November's ballot in Minneapolis.

• While he thinks parts of the proposal, including housing a police division within a broader Public Safety Department, have merit, Winkler said he's concerned "about spreading responsibility among too many people."

What's next: Winkler expects to make a final decision sometime this fall.

• A number of other candidates, including former Hennepin County Chief Public Defender Mary Moriarty, are also weighing a run.