Dear Neighbors,
On Friday, the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled that House Republicans' recent effort to take control through a legislative coup was in violation of our state constitution. Every action they took—like a fake election for House Speaker and forming fake committees—was unlawful. In November, Minnesota voters chose an evenly divided House, with 67 representatives from each party. Now, it's important for Republicans to respect that decision and work with Democrats to create a fair power-sharing agreement so we can get back to governing as Minnesotans intended.
Republicans must not only respect the will of voters statewide but also uphold the results of the election in Shakopee, where DFLer Brad Tabke was chosen to represent his community. However, Republicans are refusing to do so and, in an unprecedented move, plan to overturn the result of an election. This reckless action would in effect silence the voices of 22,000 voters. The purpose of the GOP power grab is clear: to tip the balance of power in their favor so they can push an extreme agenda—stripping away reproductive rights, eliminating paid family leave, reversing progress on climate action, and ending free school meals for kids.
House DFLers will not stand by while Republicans attempt to overturn a legitimate election for their own gain. No legislator has ever been removed in this manner, and doing so would undermine the free and fair elections Minnesotans expect. Rep. Tabke won on election night, prevailed in a recount, and his victory was affirmed in court. DFLers are ready to return to the Capitol once a fair power-sharing agreement is reached—one that respects the will of the voters.
Republicans are trying to secure a two-year power grab, even in a tied House. Our proposal is straightforward: while they have their current and temporary one-seat advantage, they can lead—but once the House returns to a 67-67 tie, we must adopt a fair co-governing model. Minnesotans made their expectations clear on Election Night: they want us to work together to get things done to improve their lives. It’s time for Republicans to come back to the negotiating table so we can move forward together.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve.
Sincerely,
Rep. Jamie Long
DFL Floor Leader, Minnesota House of Representatives