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- The Minnesota Legislature faces a chaotic start due to a power struggle in the House of Representatives.
- Democrats are threatening a walkout over a dispute on control and representation.
- Special elections and a court case add to the uncertainty.
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Essential Context
The Minnesota Legislature is on the brink of a power struggle as it prepares for its new session on January 14, 2025. The House of Representatives is at the center of this conflict, with Democrats and Republicans locked in a dispute over control and representation.
Core Players
- Melissa Hortman – DFL House Speaker-designate
- Lisa Demuth – GOP House Speaker-designate
- Steve Simon – DFL Secretary of State
- Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party (DFL) and Republican Party
Key Numbers
- 67-66: Current GOP-DFL split in the House after a court ruling made a DFL winner ineligible.
- 68: Number of votes needed to pass legislation in the House.
- January 14, 2025: Start date of the legislative session.
- January 28, 2025: Special election dates for House District 40B and Senate District 60.
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The Catalyst
The power struggle was triggered by the outcome of the November 2024 elections, which left the House of Representatives initially deadlocked at 67-67. However, a court ruling declaring a DFL winner ineligible due to residency issues shifted the balance to a 67-66 GOP majority.
This change halted discussions on a power-sharing agreement between DFL and GOP leaders, prompting Democrats to threaten a walkout.
Inside Forces
Internally, the dispute revolves around the definition of a quorum. Republicans argue that with the current vacancy, 67 members constitute a quorum, while Democrats insist that 68 members are necessary due to the Minnesota Constitution’s requirement that “a majority of each house constitutes a quorum to transact business.”
DFL House Speaker-designate Melissa Hortman stated, “That’s an abuse of power that we would be willing to take extreme steps to block.”
Power Dynamics
The control of the House is crucial because it determines who will preside as speaker and control committees. Lisa Demuth, the GOP House Speaker-designate, believes that with the one-seat edge, Republicans have the organizational majority to elect a speaker and control committees.
However, Democrats fear that this power could be used to remove DFL Rep-elect Brad Tabke from the chamber, leading them to consider extreme measures like boycotting the session or filibustering.
Outside Impact
The broader implications include the impact on legislative processes and the ability to pass laws. Without a quorum, the first day of the session could end before it begins, as stated by Secretary of State Steve Simon.
Additionally, special elections scheduled for January 28, 2025, for House District 40B and Senate District 60 could further alter the legislative landscape.
Future Forces
Looking ahead, the resolution of the power struggle will significantly influence the legislative agenda and the ability of either party to push through their policies.
The temporary vacancy in the Senate, which will begin with a tie, also adds complexity as both parties work on an agreement to ensure orderly operations in that chamber.
Data Points
- 1979: The last time the House was tied after an election.
- January 14, 2025: Primary for the Senate District 60 special election.
- January 28, 2025: Special elections for House District 40B and Senate District 60.
- 68: Number of members required for a quorum according to Democrats.
- 67: Number of members required for a quorum according to Republicans.
The power struggle in the Minnesota Legislature highlights the deep partisan divisions and the complexities of state politics. As the session begins, the outcome of this dispute will set the stage for the legislative agenda and the effectiveness of the legislature in the coming term.
