Neighbors, On Friday, the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled that recent House Republican actions, including appointing a Speaker and committees, were unconstitutional. In the last election, voters chose 67 Republicans and 67 Democrats. With an even split, we need a fair power-sharing agreement to move forward. Negotiations are continuing, but Republicans still say they may block DFL Representative Brad Tabke from taking his seat in the House, despite his victories in the election, recount, and court challenges, discarding the votes of 22,000 voters. Democrats have offered to let Republicans lead while they have their one-seat advantage, but to return to shared power when the numbers are equal again. Republicans insist that their temporary advantage be honored for two years, even if we return to a 67-67 tie. Regardless of the number right now, the fact remains that voters chose equal numbers of Republicans and Democrats, and the will of the voters must be honored. While we wait for Republicans to return to the negotiating table, I continue to do legislative work in Rochester. Over the past week, I welcomed members of the Housing committee to tour affordable housing developments in Rochester, visited the Anoka Metro Regional Treatment Center, and sat down with Channel 6 to talk about the Supreme Court decision and our path forward.  Minnesota chose an equally divided House. We're ready to negotiate a fair agreement with Republicans to honor this outcome and return to St. Paul. Stay Connected Unfortunately, due to technological constraints, replies to this newsletter won’t reach my email account. To share your input or ideas, or if I can ever be of assistance, please feel free to reach out by email at Rep.Tina.Liebling@house.mn.gov or by phone at 651-296-0573. You can contact my Legislative Assistant, Krysta, at 651-296-7173 or via email at Krysta.Niedemhofer@house.mn.gov. If you call or email, please include your street address so I’ll know if you live in my legislative district. It is an honor and a privilege to represent you at the Capitol. Warmly, Tina Tina Liebling, State Representative |