[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today released statements congratulating Minnesota State Patrol Col. Matt Langer on an outstanding career and wishing him well in his next role. After serving the Minnesota State Patrol for nearly 25 years, Col. Matt Langer announced today he is leaving the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to take a new role as Director of Global Policing with the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

“Col. Matt Langer’s dedication, compassion, and commitment to Minnesotans will leave a lasting impact on our state,” said Governor Walz. “He has been my first phone call during incredible challenges, and has been by our side to celebrate major accomplishments, including passage of the hands-free bill and making Minnesota’s roads among the safest in the country. I wish him the very best of luck and am excited to follow his successes in this new role.”

“Minnesota is undoubtably a safer, better state because of Col. Matt Langer,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “Col. Langer leads with grace, compassion, and kindness, all while prioritizing the wellbeing of Minnesotans and duties of the State Patrol. I will forever be grateful for his dedication to our state and the permanent, positive impact he has made on millions of lives. I know Col. Langer will continue to succeed in his career and wish him the very best.”

Col. Langer began his career with the State Patrol in 1999, where he developed an appreciation for the organization and discovered a passion for traffic safety. He worked his way through the ranks and has been the State Patrol’s chief for the past 10 years.