Cedrick Frazier

Cedrick Frazier is an American attorney and politician currently serving as a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives, representing District 43A, which encompasses the cities of New Hope and Crystal in Hennepin County. A member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (DFL), Frazier has focused on issues related to public safety, criminal justice reform, and equity throughout his legislative career.

Early life and career

Cedrick Frazier was born on April 28, 1979. He grew up in Chicago, Illinois, where he completed his high school education. Following high school, Frazier relocated to Minnesota to pursue higher education and athletic opportunities. He attended the University of Minnesota-Morris, where he played NCAA football and participated in track and field. Frazier earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from the university.

After completing his undergraduate studies, Frazier continued his education at Minnesota State University, Mankato. There, he focused on urban studies with an emphasis on local government management, obtaining a Master of Arts degree. During his time at Minnesota State University, he served as a fellow with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, gaining valuable experience in public policy and community engagement.

Frazier then enrolled at William Mitchell College of Law, where he furthered his legal education. While in law school, he became a member of Phi Beta Sigma and gained practical experience by clerking for the Hennepin County Public Defender's Office in Minneapolis, as well as for the League of Minnesota Cities in its Municipal Law Litigation Department. After graduating with a Juris Doctor degree and successfully passing the bar exam, Frazier began his legal career as a public defender in Hennepin County.

In 2008, Frazier transitioned into the field of public education, accepting the position of Director of Equity and Diversity for the Minneapolis Public School District. He later advanced to the role of legal counsel for the district, where he worked for eight years. Following his tenure in public education, Frazier joined Education Minnesota, the state's largest labor union, as part of its legal team, continuing his commitment to advocating for educational equity and workers' rights.

Legislative service

Frazier's political career began at the local level when he was appointed to the New Hope City Council in August 2018, succeeding Erik Lammle. His appointment marked a significant milestone, as he became the first African American to serve on the city council. Prior to this role, Frazier had contributed to the city as a member of the Planning Commission. During his time on the council, he promoted engagement between the city's Human Rights Commission and the police department, focusing on improving policing practices. He also worked on ordinances aimed at protecting tenants in affordable housing.

Frazier was first elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2020, succeeding longtime representative Lyndon Carlson. He officially took office in January 2021. Shortly after assuming his role, he was appointed vice chair of the House Public Safety Committee by House Speaker Melissa Hortman. In this capacity, Frazier became a prominent advocate for reforming Minnesota's public safety and criminal justice systems, especially in light of high-profile incidents involving law enforcement and Black individuals, including George Floyd and Daunte Wright.

Throughout his tenure, Frazier played a key role in budget negotiations within the politically divided legislature, contributing to the passage of a significant state budget. His efforts were instrumental in averting a potential government shutdown, and he was recognized for keeping police reform at the forefront of legislative discussions. In July 2021, he was appointed to a select panel tasked with determining the distribution of $250 million allocated for frontline workers, funded by federal resources from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Frazier also served as the Chief Author of the Essential Workers Emergency Leave Act, which aimed to provide emergency paid sick leave to employees who were excluded from federal protections.

In the latter part of 2021, Frazier was considered a potential candidate for the position of Hennepin County Attorney following the announcement of Mike Freeman's retirement. However, he ultimately decided not to pursue the role, endorsing former Hennepin County chief public defender Mary Moriarty for the position instead. In December 2022, he was elected co-chair of the Minnesota House People of Color and Indigenous (POCI) Caucus, alongside Representative Esther Agbaje, further solidifying his leadership role within the legislature.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives, Frazier has concentrated on several key policy areas, particularly those related to public safety, criminal justice reform, and equity in education and housing. His background in law and public education informs his legislative priorities, as he seeks to address systemic issues that affect marginalized communities in his district and across the state.

Frazier's district, 43A, includes the cities of New Hope and Crystal in Hennepin County, which are characterized by diverse populations and a range of socioeconomic challenges. His work aims to enhance community engagement and ensure that the voices of constituents are heard in the legislative process. Frazier's commitment to equity is reflected in his advocacy for policies that protect tenants in affordable housing and promote fair treatment in public safety practices.

In terms of committee assignments, Frazier has held various leadership roles throughout his legislative career. For the 2023-2025 legislative session, he serves as vice chair of the Judiciary Finance & Civil Law Committee, as well as being a member of the Education Policy, Public Safety Finance & Policy, and Workforce Development Finance & Policy committees. His previous assignments included significant roles in public safety and economic development, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to addressing critical issues facing his constituents.

Frazier resides in New Hope, Minnesota, with his wife, Stella, and their three daughters. His family life and personal experiences continue to shape his perspectives and priorities as a legislator, as he works to create a more equitable and just society for all Minnesotans.