Rybak apologizes to state delegates for DNC scandal

rybak tuesday
R.T. Rybak, a Democratic National Committee vice chair, began his speech to Minnesota convention delegates with an apology. Tim Pugmire|MPR News

Democratic National Committee Vice Chair R.T. Rybak apologized to Minnesota convention delegates Tuesday for the email scandal that led to a shakeup of the national party’s leadership.

Rybak raised the issue at the start of a breakfast speech to delegates at their hotel outside Philadelphia.

DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz resigned after leaked internal emails showed party insiders working against Bernie Sanders. Without getting into specifics, Rybak said the actions were wrong.

“I want to say I’m sorry,” Rybak said. “I want to issue you a formal apology on behalf of the Democrat National Committee, and I want to look in the eye of every person who believes in politics here and say your trust was violated.”

Rybak said efforts are underway to improve the “entire culture” of the DNC. The former mayor of Minneapolis also noted that he felt a leadership change was needed a while ago.

“I got a little bit of grief for saying that, but I want us to know that it is important to be truth tellers within organizations and blow the whistle some times,” he said.

Political Coverage Powered by You

Your gift today creates a more connected Minnesota. MPR News is your trusted resource for election coverage, reporting and breaking news. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.