Legislative Update – February 7, 2025
Neighbors,
Wednesday night, Minnesota Democrats successfully negotiated a co-governing agreement that protects the will of the voters. It’s a big win for our district, as it ensures Republicans can’t silence our voices through an overreaching power grab, including overturning a lawful election and declaring themselves to be a majority even though they didn’t win in November.
Minnesota Republicans have been forced to abandon their illegitimate and illegal attempts to commandeer the House, including their undemocratic efforts to unseat DFL Rep. Brad Tabke after he won on election night, in a recount, and in a court case. This agreement means Republicans won’t have the unilateral ability to roll back all the important progress Democrats delivered in 2023 and 2024 like free school meals for kids, reproductive freedoms, Paid Family Leave for workers, and so much more.
Democrats got pretty much exactly what we’ve been asking for since January— once the House is back to a 67-67 tie, Republicans and Democrats will co-chair committees with equal membership from both parties. The agreement also has guardrails to prevent future abuses of power on the House floor. I look forward to beginning official committee work next month as the co-chair of the Environment Committee.
Right now, the daily barrage of unprecedented overreach by President Trump, JD Vance, Elon Musk, and his billionaire cabinet is designed to wear us down and undermine our faith in democratic institutions and the rule of law. But here in Minnesota, DFLers stood united and strong to resist MAGA extremism, and we won. Voters, not politicians, should decide who wins elections.
But here’s the important thing, this co-governing agreement ensures that my DFL colleagues and I will continue to have the ability to fight for a better Minnesota. A Minnesota that prioritizes workers, families, and our neighbors over corporate interests. A Minnesota that makes progress on important issues like increasing affordable housing, bringing down the cost of healthcare, supporting working families, and protecting Minnesotan’s fundamental rights.
With a tied House, we need bipartisan action to pass bills and move our state forward. As we have said since November, Democrats are ready to work with Republicans and govern responsibly while not compromising on our core values.
After a turbulent few weeks of uncertainty, I'm relieved to return to some normalcy and again represent you in Saint Paul! I want to thank the constituents, community leaders, advocates, and everyone who met with me to share their priorities in these past few weeks. Your input directly shapes my legislative agenda, and I’m looking forward to continuing to advance our shared values here at the Capitol.
Working for our District
Here’s a quick recap of my work since my last update. You can also listen to my weekly radio spot on KYMN Radio here.
- I attended the Northfield Public Schools board meetings to hear budget director Val break down the upcoming budget year and the impact it will have on our kids.
- I visited with folks living in modular home communities in Blaine. Legislation on modular homes is a huge priority for me this session. Lots of work to be done to regulate corporations and private equity firms taking advantage of residents.
- I met with the Reproductive Health Alliance this afternoon with a group of food, farm, and garden educators from around the state along with Representative Sandra Feist.
- I met with a constituent Mira from St. Olaf College and Amanda from Save the Boundary Waters about how we can take a stand here in Minnesota to protect against federal action.
- I met with Minnesota Farmers Union neighbors at Littlejoy, talking about making sure AgroVoltaics and organic blueberries keep going strong in Minnesota!
- I chatted with Tyler Powell, CEO of the Northfield Area Family YMCA along with two student leaders: Sophia Good from Fridley High School and Audrey Stenzel from Mounds View High School. Both students participate in the incredible Youth in Government program supported by the YMCA.
- I met with Healthy Community Initiative Rice County Sheriff's Office Rice County Attorney's Office Rice County Public Health and other partners to discuss what’s happening with the Rice County Chemical and Mental Health Coalition.
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 at rep.kristi.pursell@house.mn.gov or 651-296-0171, and I will be happy to help.
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Sincerely,
Kristi Pursell
State Representative