A power-sharing conflict in Minnesota’s House may disrupt the start of the 2025 legislative session as parties clash over control.
Minneapolis: Minnesota’s legislative session is gearing up for a rocky start. The Democrats and Republicans are at odds over a power-sharing deal in a closely divided House.
After last year’s election, the House was tied. But a DFLer got disqualified, giving Republicans a slim one-seat edge. They want to elect Lisa Demuth as speaker, but Democrats are pushing back, threatening to skip the vote.
Rep. Jamie Long from Minneapolis mentioned that a special election on January 28 could lead to a tie again. He pointed out that Demuth seems determined to act like she’s in charge for the next two years, regardless of the upcoming election.
If the DFLers don’t show up, it could prevent the House from having the 68 members needed to do business. In response, Republicans are talking about recalling those who don’t attend.
Republican Chair Alex Pechash stated they’re ready to hold legislators accountable if they don’t do their jobs. Secretary of State Steve Simon, a DFLer, said he might adjourn the House if there aren’t enough votes for a speaker.
Currently, Republicans hold 67 seats to the DFL’s 66. Democrats argue that with 134 total seats, they need 68 votes to proceed. But Republicans think a majority means just the elected members, which complicates things.
Most DFL members were sworn in early, so they might not need to show up on the first day. Republicans criticized this move as illegitimate.
DFL House Speaker Designate Melissa Hortman suggested a temporary deal where Republicans could take the majority for now, but revert to a power-sharing agreement if the tie returns. No agreement was reached by late Monday.
By June 30, Minnesota needs to pass a two-year budget to avoid a government shutdown. Meanwhile, House Republicans are trying to keep their claimed “organizational majority.”
They’re also challenging the election of DFL Rep. Brad Tabke, who won by a narrow margin. If he’s not seated, a new election would be necessary, which DFLers see as a power grab.
Additionally, the state GOP is trying to delay a special election for a Roseville-area House seat after a DFL Rep.-elect withdrew over residency issues. A delay could give Republicans more time to solidify their temporary majority.
On a brighter note, the Senate seems to be handling things better. DFL and Republican leaders have reached a power-sharing agreement in the Senate, which is currently tied 33-33.
Each party will have a co-presiding officer, and committee seats will be shared. This agreement aims to avoid gridlock and foster cooperation as they start the 2025 session.
Democrats are expected to regain a majority soon, with a primary election on the first day of the session and a special election later this month.
The Senate’s makeup could also change depending on the outcome of a trial for Sen. Nicole Mitchell, who faces felony charges. Her trial was initially set for this month, but her lawyers are asking for a delay until after the session.
