Gov. Walz, you would lead best by reminding Minnesotans about health safety. Written By: Mark Dvorak | × Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, we ask that you reopen the business community of Minnesota. We are concerned about the loss of jobs and businesses. We are concerned about the government impinging on the rights of our citizens — rights the veterans of this state fought for and hold dearly. COVID-19 cases are high across the Midwest, from Utah to Ohio. The disease flourishes regardless of rules in place. Minnesota is surrounded by states where businesses are allowed to be open, yet Minnesota’s COVID-19 rates per capita are no better than others. (CDC on Dec. 8, cases per 100,000 last seven days: South Dakota, 97.7; Minnesota 95.2; North Dakota, 78.2; Wisconsin, 77.8; Iowa, 71.7.)