We should all have a say in what justice looks like. Minnesotans deserve a fair and accountable justice system and that’s why I’m running to be the next Hennepin County Attorney.
As a proven champion for justice, I will bring the change and progress Hennepin County deserves. I’ve devoted my life to criminal justice reform and I know that changing this system is possible, it matters, and is long overdue. But we won’t achieve it with just a few policy changes. We must base our overall approach to crime reduction on treatment and support, not hardline punishment.
I was raised by a single mom who worked long hours—I believe justice should not depend on how much money you have. I served as a Coast Guard law enforcement officer—I respect the law but believe that it must serve all people. I’m also a father—I believe if kids get into trouble, they deserve help to get back on track.
With a 20-year incumbent, it’s time for a fresh start. I am an innovative criminal justice reform leader running to balance second chances and accountability.
As County Attorney, I will make prosecution about seeking justice not just winning cases. I will reform cash bail in Hennepin County, ensure accountability and second chances can go hand in hand, stop the prosecution of low level drug offenses, and expand juvenile restorative justice.
I co-founded the Second Chance Coalition, worked for years at the Council on Crime and Justice, led bipartisan efforts to reform drug sentencing and juvenile records laws, worked to restore voting rights for former offenders, and was a leader on the Ban the Box campaign.
Born and raised in Hennepin County, I have spent the last 15 years working to make our communities safe, more equitable, and more just.
From representing the State in felony sentencing hearings, to managing programs for victims of crime, I learned that we can only be safe when we have real justice for all Minnesotans not just some of us. I’m a proud veteran, father, attorney, and advocate. I’m running for County Attorney because we’re at a real crisis point in our justice system, and I know that better policy decisions lead to better outcomes for everyone.
I’d be honored to earn your vote on November 6th. I’d love to hear more from you about issues that are important in this race. My cell is 612-819-0738 and my email is mahaase@gmail.com.
Let’s build a better justice system for everyone in Hennepin County.
You can learn more about Mark Haase for Hennepin County Attorney at: https://www.markhaase.org/