Jason Lewis sues Gov. Walz claiming COVID-19 orders are unconstitutional

U.S. Senate candidate and former U.S. Rep. Jason Lewis is suing Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, claiming his ‘stay at home’ order and ‘Stay Safe MN’ order violate the constitution.

The lawsuit claims the orders issued by Walz harmed Lewis’ ability to campaign and also "creates an unconstitutional ban on travel that violates the U.S. Constitution.

"As I’ve been saying for some time now, the overreach from these unprecedented lockdowns has moved beyond economic hardship and favoritism into the realm of threatening our most basic liberties, including the fundamental right to travel and meet with friends and neighbors," Lewis said in a statement. "Our action serves notice on the state that it too has limits, especially when its arbitrary actions encroach on the freedoms of Minnesotans."

The lawsuit seeks judgment to declare the orders issued by Walz violates the U.S. Constitution. The suit also seeks an injunction prohibiting Walz from enforcing the orders.

A spokesperson for Gov. Walz said: "The virus has forced the state to take drastic action to keep Minnesotans safe, but it’s action that is within the Governor’s authority. It is also in line with federal guidance and similar to what many other states are doing. All of the Governor’s actions have been grounded in the need to protect the health and safety of Minnesotans, and he will continue to work to find ways to get Minnesotans back to work and to a place where they can safely gather in large groups."