Neighbors, I’m honored to have been officially sworn in as a Minnesota State Representative for my community, District 35B. Whether you voted for me or not, I promise to serve with you, my neighbors, at the forefront of my work. Heading into this legislative session, we need to work across the aisle, not as Democrats or Republicans, but as Minnesotans. Thank you for trusting me with this honor.  If you’ve been keeping up with the happenings here in the House as session began today, you’ve likely heard about the Republicans’ attempt to deny the will of the voters and seize power for the next two years, despite the fact that Minnesota delivered a tied House. Minnesotans expect bipartisanship, but rather than negotiating with Democrats, the Republicans violated state law and illegitimately took control of the House after Secretary of State Steve Simon declared a quorum was not present. Republicans also made clear that they intend to use their temporary one-vote advantage to unseat Rep 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. Just this morning, a court declared that Tabke was duly elected by the people of Shakopee, but their plans have not wavered. Let me be clear: Today, the Republicans ignored Minnesota state statute, the Minnesota constitution, and their oath of office. I know my colleagues on the other side of the aisle are better than what their actions displayed, and my DFL colleagues and I will be here and ready to get to work alongside them when they decide to honor the will of the voters. I’m eager to get to work with my Republican colleagues and deliver the bipartisan work Minnesotans expect us to do. Until Republicans return to the negotiation table and abandon this Minnsurrection, I will be working here in Coon Rapids and across the Metro, meeting with partners, stakeholders, and of course, constituents. It’s not how I envisioned my first week as your Representative, but the work is abundant and rewarding, nonetheless. Stay ConnectedUnfortunately, 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 email at rep.kari.rehrauer@house.mn.gov or by phone at 651-296-1729. You can contact my Legislative Assistant, Chloe, at 651-296-5486 or via email at chloe.keller@house.mn.gov. It is an honor and a privilege to represent you at the Capitol.?? All my best,?? Rep. Kari Rehrauer |