Friends,

Session has now wrapped, and the Democrats in no short order delivered on every progressive promise made, minus cutting taxes. In the coming months, and years you will see; the least restrict laws in respect to life and abortion in the world, gas tax increases tethered to inflation, increases in fee’s for owning and operating vehicles, mass release of convicted criminals, reduction of minimum sentenced served to 50% of time served from 67%, steep costs to local schools, and small business crippling mandates like 24 week paid family leave. The reality, government is growing at 40%.

That growth consists of spending $80billion dollars, the largest increase in spending in state history. Coming in, this year's budget was somewhere around $52 billion for context.

There was virtually no transparency in these last few days of Session. Much like we saw common sense provisions like restricting pedophiles as a protected class, which passed the House and Senate on the floor, were struct by the Democrat controlled conference committees. This is where they added unconstitutional red flag laws and the gas tax increase, and further expansion of abortion. The minority and people of Minnesota were cut out from debate, and amendment process.

One small bright spot, was where Republican Leadership fought for $300 million, holding the Democrat trifecta to account in underfunding nursing homes. This did come at a high cost, as the agreement was tied to $3 billion in bonding. It was ultimately the right thing to do, as we found ourselves in a situation where our seniors were cut out of supports with an $18 billion surplus.

I am looking to host two follow-up town halls, in Baudette and Walker. The dates will be out in advance.

As of now, we are expecting to return to the Capitol in February of 2024.

Enjoy the nice weather and have a great summer.