Chief T. John Cunningham

Completed 40 hrs of CE to renew my @NREMT EMT certification - my first since leaving active service. As a leader, staying sharp and connected to the front lines matters. You never know when you’ll need to step in to help.

Beneath the American flag, we remember Minnetonka Deputy Fire Marshal Shawn Johnson, a devoted public servant, colleague, and friend. He faced his battle with cancer with courage and strength. Rest in peace. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.

Today we honor and remember Burnsville Police Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, and Firefighter-Paramedic Adam Finseth, who were killed in the line of duty on February 18, 2024. Their courage, service, and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

The @MnDPS_DPS is hiring! The Executive Director provides executive leadership and operational oversight to advance SECB’s mission of ensuring reliable, interoperable public safety communications across Minnesota. Learn more: tinyurl.com/48veczwy

Non-masked MN National Guard are out handing out hot chocolate, coffee and donuts to protesters. One simple act has de-escalated the situation and helped gain the trust of people. See the difference between professional soldiers and the pretend tough guys in CBP and ICE?

Today we honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the hope, unity, and compassion he championed. His dream continues to inspire us to lift each other up and create a brighter future together. Small acts of kindness still make a big difference. #MLKDay2026

Thank you to the @MNNationalGuard for being ready to support our communities during this time. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety values its strong partnership with the Guard, and appreciates the close coordination that helps support our local partners.

It’s been a rough week. Sometimes the best medicine is a little extra love from therapy dogs 🐾 Grateful for moments like these—and deeply thankful for our public safety professionals who continue serving Minnesotans with care and dedication.

Statements from Colin and Sophie Hortman, children of Mark and Melissa Hortman, after President Trump reposted false claims about their parents’ death. “I ask President Trump to please consider the pain and sadness we have faced,” Sophie said, asking him to remove it.

A special thank you to the first responders and military members serving today. Your courage and sacrifice allow us to celebrate in safety and freedom. We appreciate you more than words can express.

Merry Christmas from John & Ben! 🎄✨ Today, our hearts are full of gratitude—for family, friends, and all the incredible people who make life so meaningful. Wishing you peace, joy, and love this holiday season.

Thank you to all our partners and members for your ongoing leadership and commitment to supporting Minnesota’s public safety community. Together, we continue to strengthen the systems that help protect the people of Minnesota every day.

The Board also received great updates from DPS and MnDOT staff, along with reports from several SECB committees. I also provided an update on the hiring of the new Deputy Director of Communications and Interoperability at @MnDPS_HSEM.

This past week, I had the honor of chairing the Statewide Emergency Communications Board in my capacity as the Assistant Commissioner at @MnDPS_DPS. I am grateful for the dedication and expertise that our partners bring to strengthening our emergency communications systems.

We cut down a beautiful tree for our family room. This tree holds numerous cherished memories, as some of the ornaments have been passed down through multiple generations. One of the most magical times of year.

Congratulations Chief on your retirement.