Is Minneapolis on the Brink of Collapse? A controversial new documentary, A Precarious State, paints a grim picture of the city, sparking heated debates just weeks before a pivotal election. But is it a fair portrayal, or a calculated attack? Here’s the full story.
Former KARE-11 anchor Rick Kupchella’s latest film has ignited a firestorm in Minnesota. Released a month before Minneapolis’ city elections, the documentary dives into crime, education, socialism, and migration, leaving viewers with a sense of alarm. But here’s where it gets controversial: while Kupchella claims it’s a neutral public education campaign, critics argue it’s a thinly veiled attempt to sway voters. The film has already racked up 300,000 YouTube views and aired statewide as a paid advertisement, raising questions about its funding and motives.
Who’s behind the curtain? Kupchella remains tight-lipped about the film’s financiers, only hinting at support from ‘business and community leaders.’ In today’s polarized climate, donors are staying in the shadows, but the film’s agenda is clear: to highlight what it sees as Minneapolis’ downward spiral. And this is the part most people miss: while the documentary focuses on rising crime rates, it conveniently omits categories like burglary, which has dropped 19% since 2019. Kupchella defends this by claiming he’s focusing on ‘serious crimes,’ but is this selective storytelling or strategic omission?
The film’s portrayal of crime is stark, featuring graphic footage of a 2024 gun battle and claims that the city is ‘run by gangs.’ Yet, it fails to mention recent progress: motor vehicle thefts and carjackings are down since their peaks. Is this a fair representation, or is Kupchella cherry-picking data to push a narrative?
Democratic socialists in the crosshairs
The documentary takes direct aim at Minneapolis’ Democratic Socialists of America (DSA)-aligned politicians, particularly City Council Member Robin Wonsley. Carol Becker, a commentator known for clashing with the city’s progressive wing, labels Wonsley as the leader of the council’s radical faction. But here’s the twist: Wonsley claims Kupchella never interviewed her, while Kupchella insists he did. Who’s telling the truth?
Wonsley argues the film misrepresents her views, calling some claims ‘comical.’ Meanwhile, Kupchella bases his critique on the national DSA platform, which advocates for abolishing prisons and cutting prosecutor funding. But is it fair to hold local politicians accountable for a national organization’s agenda? City Council Member Jason Chavez points out that the DSA is a decentralized movement, not a monolithic party. Are Kupchella’s criticisms valid, or is he painting with too broad a brush?
Student test scores: Failing or misinterpreted?
The film also tackles Minnesota’s education system, claiming a majority of students are failing science, reading, and math. However, Elsa Mundt, an educational data analyst, clarifies that the state’s assessments are adaptive, not pass-fail tests. Is Kupchella oversimplifying complex data to make a dramatic point? Even after this was explained, he stood by his claim that 74% of students are failing science. Is this accuracy or alarmism?
Migration and taxes: The exodus myth
The documentary highlights data showing people leaving Minnesota, blaming the state’s income tax. Yet, state demographer Susan Brower notes that outmigration has been a trend since 2006, driven by various factors. Is the tax the real culprit, or is this a convenient scapegoat?
Real estate: Distressed or resilient?
While the film correctly identifies Minneapolis’ struggling commercial real estate market, it overlooks bright spots. The industrial sector is booming, and home buying remains strong, with Minneapolis outpacing the metro in sale price gains. Why leave out the full picture?
The Mayor’s dilemma
Mayor Jacob Frey, notably absent from the film, is portrayed indirectly through the lens of others. One participant claims she agreed to appear after being told the film would paint Frey in a positive light. Is this ethical filmmaking, or manipulation?
Final thoughts and questions for you
A Precarious State raises important issues but leaves many wondering about its motives and fairness. Is it a necessary wake-up call or a biased attack? Kupchella insists it’s a vital story, but critics argue it’s one-sided. What do you think? Is Minneapolis truly in a precarious state, or is this documentary part of a larger political game? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going.
