However, we enter the 2025-2026 biennium in unprecedented times. As you may have heard, the start of the legislative session is looking very different from how I pictured it, much less how we are all accustomed to how our government should work. This past election, 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 unique opportunity for Democrats and Republicans to show Minnesotans that we can govern together on a bipartisan basis. Unfortunately, instead of finding ways for us to work together, Republican leaders have left the negotiating table and are in the midst of an illegitimate power grab. Republicans are threatening to use their temporary one-seat advantage to kick out the duly elected DFL state representative from Shakopee after the court decisively ruled on January 14th that Brad Tabke won his reelection. Rep. Tabke has every right to be seated in the Minnesota House of Representatives to serve his community. This is an illegitimate power grab. It is anti-democratic and not what Minnesotans voted for. Quite honestly, this is a heartbreaking way to start my legislative career. However, I am committed to upholding the Minnesota Constitution and the will of Minnesota’s voters. Until Republicans come back to the negotiating table and recognize that Minnesota is stronger when we’re working together, I will be busy meeting with constituents in our district and working on ways to best deliver for our community and state. In fact, I’ve already gotten a head start! Before being sworn in, I already held legislative meetings with the Eden Prairie and Minnetonka City Governments, the Minnetonka School Board, and attended an Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce Restaurant Roundtable. These are in addition to the many meetings and correspondence I’ve had with numerous constituents. Today, while House Republicans played political games, I spent the day with my DFL colleagues touring our local Planned Parenthood. It was great meeting with the dedicated staff there, and learning about the services they provide our community. |