Dear Department of Commerce colleagues,

First, I would like to thank each and every one of you for all of the hard work and dedication you put into your jobs every day for Minnesotans. 

This past year has been extremely difficult for every Minnesotan. I know that the leadership change forced on the Department last fall was hard. I was, and remain, grateful to Grace Arnold that she was willing to step in and serve as Temporary Commissioner at Commerce. Under Grace’s leadership and with your hard work, I am proud of the important work she, and you, have continued to do each day.

It gives me great pleasure to announce that Grace has accepted my offer to serve as Commerce Commissioner on a permanent basis. Commissioner Arnold is exceptionally qualified to lead this agency, having consistently demonstrated her leadership and advocacy skills at both the federal and state levels. Her commitment to interests of Minnesota consumers, advancing innovative ideas to further our One Minnesota strategic priorities, and ensuring fair and equitable markets for all made her the ideal candidate to lead your vital agency.

Please join me in congratulating Commissioner Arnold! And thank you, again, for all that you do every day on behalf of Minnesotans.

Sincerely,

Governor Tim Walz