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You may have heard about a tumultuous start to the year as the House prepares for session to begin next week. I wanted to take the time to explain the situation and why my DFL colleagues and I are working to protect the integrity of our institution, and ensure our district has effective representation.
This past election, Minnesotans voted for equal numbers of Democratic and Republican state representatives. A 67-67 tie in the 134-member Minnesota House of Representatives is extremely rare, but I see it as a golden opportunity for Democrats and Republicans to show Minnesotans that we can govern together on a bipartisan basis.
Unfortunately, my Republican colleagues have walked away from power sharing negotiations and are now attempting to engage in an illegitimate power grab.
During a January 6 press conference, Republicans confirmed they plan to try to use a two-week, one-seat advantage to seize control of the House for the next two years, even though Minnesotans voted for equal numbers of DFL and Republican state representatives. Republicans also made clear that they would use their temporary one-vote advantage to unseat a duly elected DFL state representative in Shakopee and order a special election regardless of the fact he won, in effect disenfranchising 21,980 voters who cast their ballots in the November election. This is absolutely outrageous and has never been done in Minnesota history.
I’m calling on my Republican colleagues to abandon their illegitimate power grab, honor the election results, and sign a power-sharing agreement. A majority in the Minnesota House is 68 members, and Republicans only have 67 members. It takes 68 votes to elect a Speaker, it takes 68 votes to pass a bill, and it takes 68 votes to move a bill from committee along its committee path. All of this means we have to work together on a bipartisan basis to get things done for the people of Minnesota.
I am hopeful that a power-sharing agreement can be adopted before the new legislative session begins on January 14. At this time, my focus is on doing everything within my power to make that happen. I have no interest in denying quorum by not attending floor sessions. This is not my goal or desire.
I want to get to work with my Republican colleagues on January 14 and govern under shared power. This situation can be resolved, but first Republicans need to return to the negotiating table.
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Keep in Touch
Please continue to reach out with any input, ideas, or feedback about the issues important to you. I value hearing from you, so call or email any time at [email protected] or 651-296-4224. You can also follow my official Facebook page.
Minnesota House of Representatives
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