Dear Neighbors,
Thursday was a big day at the State Capitol. Democrats were successful in securing a hard-fought power-sharing agreement that honors the will of voters in Shakopee and throughout the state. It ensures the House will operate fairly and in recognition of the fact voters selected 67 state representatives from each party, which is something DFLers have been asking for all along.
On the first day of the legislative session in January, House Republicans violated the state constitution and attempted to seize power that voters didn’t give them. Being away from the Capitol the last few weeks was a difficult, but important decision Democrats made to show Republicans that we will never waver when it comes to protecting democracy. If even a single Democrat had attended the first day of session without a power-sharing agreement first, Republicans would have kicked out Rep. Brad Tabke, denying the voters of Shakopee their elected representative, and seized control of the House for two years even when we return to a tie.
Democrats stood firm and successfully prevented this power grab. Rep. Tabke will be able to serve his term, and if the House returns to a 67-67 tie, Democrats and Republicans will share power. Committees will have co-chairs with equal representation from both parties, ensuring that advancing legislation—both in committee and on the House floor—would require bipartisan support.
Minnesotans delivered a tied House on Election Night and this power-sharing agreement allows us to work together to address real issues for Minnesotans like affordable housing, health care, child care, and more. We’ll also be able to more effectively protect the progress DFLers have delivered recently including free school meals for kids, paid family leave, action to tackle the climate crisis, guaranteed reproductive freedoms, and more.
The session lawfully and properly got underway Thursday and I’m excited to continue working alongside Minnesotans to build a future where everyone can get ahead, not just the rich and powerful. My DFL colleagues and I are also committed to protecting people from the chaos, cruelty, and incompetence coming out of the Trump Administration.
Please continue to be in touch about your own priorities and to share your ideas. It’s an honor to represent you.
Sincerely,
Rep. Jamie Long
DFL Floor Leader
Minnesota House of Representatives