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Dear Neighbors,
Given the recent attention on activities at the state capitol, I’d like to take a moment to share some important information and provide an update on the current situation.
As you know, following the 2024 November election, Minnesotans voted in an evenly split State House of Representatives, with 67 Democratic and 67 Republican representatives—a rare occurrence that last took place in 1979. This was not a concern of mine initially as my first two terms (2019-2020 and 2021-2022) allowed me the opportunity to work under the nation’s only divided state legislature- A DFL-led House and a GOP-led Senate. In those years, we were able to pass a state budget with targeted tax cuts, create an emergency insulin access program, ban holding cell phones while driving, and deliver emergency COVID aid to schools, businesses, first responders, and more.
Unfortunately, my Republican colleagues have walked away from recently agreed-upon power-sharing negotiations and are now attempting to leverage a two-week plurality to assert two years of control over House activities. During a January 6 press conference, Republicans confirmed their 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.
I’m disappointed my colleagues have chosen to go back on their word and waste valuable time during our legislative session putting politics ahead of the priorities of the people we represent. I’ve been ready to work with my Republican colleagues on January 14 and govern under shared power. This situation can be resolved, but first, my Republican colleagues must return to the negotiating table and honor the original agreement they signed off on in November.
I want you to know the work doesn’t stop on my part; collaborating with constituents, visiting with neighbors at community events, drafting legislation, and hosting meetings in the district (like our town hall meeting this Saturday) are all critical components to public service. Despite the political impasse we are currently experiencing, I will always prioritize my constituents and work to solve problems that improve our quality of living in Minnesota.
Please contact me anytime with questions, input, or ideas on bills you’re passionate about at [email protected] or 651-296-4306. This work isn’t possible without your feedback.
Thank you for the honor of representing our Rosemount, Apple Valley, and Eagan neighbors at the state level.
Stay warm,
John
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