Neighbors, I’m writing with an important update on the state of the Minnesota House of Representatives. In November, 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 to try to undo the progress we made over the past two years. 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. Republicans also made clear that they would use their temporary one-vote advantage to unseat Brad Tabke of Shakopee, a duly elected DFL state representative, 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. That is 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 requires 68 members, and Republicans have only 67 members. It takes 68 votes to pass a bill, which means we have to work together for Minnesota on a bipartisan basis to get things done. Democrats are ready to get to work, together. 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, but we cannot allow this illegitimate power grab to occur and overturn the will of the voters. 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. I’m asking you to join me in the call and ask our colleagues on the other side of the aisle to show up to the negotiating table so we can work for Minnesota, together. Sincerely, Rep. Carlie Kotyza-Witthuhn |