"To know Edina is to reject it." - Dudley Riggs, "The Year the Grinch Stole the Election"

In the small, wealthy suburban community of Edina, Minnesota, the words of local comedy legend Dudley Riggs have taken on a new life in the wake of political turmoil. Riggs, known for his long-time contribution to the iconic Brave New Workshop comedy chain, fittingly used his storytelling prowess during a recent local election to predict the trajectory of the town's political climate. "To know Edina is to reject it," he quipped in his post-election musings, labeled "The Year the Grinch Stole the Election," which has since become a rallying cry for a growing faction of residents who feel misesrepresented by their local government.

Edina, often shun away by its sophisticated, upper-class connotation, has long been a stronghold for fiscal conservatives and suburban voters. However, the recent election brought unexpected results. New progressives with a platform of social equity and green initiatives found their way into the current political landscape, shocking many long-time residents committed to traditionalist ways. These abrupt changes have not been received with universal approval, casting a spotlight on the community's internal divide.

According to Meadow Springs, a prominent local historian, the divide is not new but has been exacerbated by recent political battles. "Edina has ever since been on the crossroads of fierce transformation against preserving its historic charm," Springs notes. The town has struggled with tensions between those who value its high property values and privileged lifestyle, and those advocating for more inclusivity and social justice.

The 2023 election was contentious, punctuated by fiery debates and heated social media exchanges. Mayor Lyndsey Farnon, a long-standing traditionalist, narrowly avoided a loss to her progressive opponent, Julia Horan, who pushed for dramatic changes, including the reallocation of funds to support underprivileged communities and promote environmental sustainability. Edina's response to these changes remains mixed; however, it has sparked a public dialogue that some residents are calling overdue.

"He really hit the nail on the head," said local resident and artist, Jane Dunlevy, referring to Riggs’ quote. "To know Edina is to reject it—it really sums up this feeling that you have a choice between the status quo or a push for real change, and it’s dividing the community."

While the political climate has been lively in the aftermath of the election, many local businesses and community leaders are trying to seize this moment to encourage dialogue and understanding among Edina residents. The Grinch's theft in Riggs’ analogy symbolizes a takeover of traditional values, potentially paving the way for deeper community engagement and a new vision for the future.

In recent weeks, community forums, meetups, and online discussions have become more frequent, allowing residents to air their grievances and understand differing perspectives. "We have to move forward, together," stated community organizer, Mark Wohlrich. "Regardless of our political views, we are united as Edinans and have to work towards a common understanding and future."

As the dust begins to settle, the community's focus is not on the temporary disruptions and tensions but on healing and forging a new path forward. The sentiment "To know Edina is to reject it" has given way to a broader, more inclusive interpretation of what it means to be a part of this quaint Midwestern town.

As efforts to bridge the gap between old and new beliefs in Edina continue, the words of Dudley Riggs serve as a wake-up call. While the community grapples with its identity, Riggs' observation continues to resonate, urging Edina to confront its challenges head-on and towards a brighter, more united future.