Republicans Secure Temporary Minnesota House Majority

Republicans Secure Temporary Minnesota House Majority \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ Republicans are set to begin the Minnesota legislative session with a 67-66 majority in the House after a Democrat resigned over a residency dispute. A special election in the Democratic-leaning district could soon shift control back to Democrats. The GOP aims to capitalize on its temporary advantage, advancing bills and pursuing investigations before new elections reshape the chamber.

Minnesota House Majority Shake-Up: Quick Looks

• Residency Dispute: Democrat Curtis Johnson resigned after a court ruled he failed to meet residency requirements.
• Temporary Majority: Republicans hold a 67-66 edge as the session begins on January 14.
• Special Elections: Key elections in Democratic-leaning districts could restore Democratic control.
• Legislative Implications: Republicans may push their agenda while holding committee control.
• Senate Tie: The Minnesota Senate is evenly split at 33-33 after the death of a Democratic leader.

Deep Look

Temporary Republican Majority in the Minnesota House

Republicans are set to begin the year with a narrow majority in the Minnesota House, taking advantage of a Democratic lawmaker’s resignation following a residency dispute. Democrat Curtis Johnson announced Friday that he would not appeal a district court ruling that found him ineligible to serve due to failing to establish residency in the suburban Roseville-area district he was elected to represent.

The ruling by Ramsey County Judge Leonardo Castro cited evidence, including surveillance footage and utility records, presented by Johnson’s Republican opponent, Paul Wikstrom. The court concluded that Johnson did not live in the apartment he claimed as his residence for the required six months before the election.

In his resignation letter, Johnson said, “While I disagree with the conclusions reached by the District Court, I recognize that whatever the decision on appeal, the ultimate decision belongs to the Legislature… Rather than dragging this out further, I have decided to resign now, so that a special election can be held as soon as possible.”

Republicans Take Early Advantage

With Johnson stepping down, Republicans will hold a slim 67-66 majority when the legislative session begins on January 14. Republican Rep. Lisa Demuth, poised to become House Speaker, expressed satisfaction with the court’s ruling and the opportunity it provides the GOP. “This confirms that Republicans will have an organizational majority on day one,” Demuth said.

However, this majority may be short-lived. Governor Tim Walz has scheduled a special election for January 28 in the Democratic-leaning district, where Johnson previously won by 30 points. Democrats remain confident that they will reclaim the seat, as District 40B has consistently supported Democratic candidates by wide margins.

Special Elections and Power Struggles

The upcoming special election isn’t the only factor that could shift control of the Minnesota House. Another residency challenge in a suburban district involving incumbent Democratic Rep. Brad Tabke is under judicial review. Tabke won his seat by a razor-thin margin of 14 votes over Republican Aaron Paul, despite 20 missing ballots that were accepted but not counted. At a recent hearing, Tabke’s legal team presented testimony from voters whose missing ballots would likely confirm his victory. A judge’s decision in this case is expected in the coming weeks.

Adding to the stakes, the Minnesota Senate is now evenly split at 33-33 following the death of Democratic Majority Leader Sen. Kari Dziedzic. A special election for her Democratic-leaning Minneapolis district has yet to be scheduled, but Democrats are optimistic about retaining the seat.

Legislative Dynamics in the Interim

Even with their temporary majority, Republicans may face challenges in advancing their legislative agenda. While Democrats can block Republican-backed bills without a 68-seat majority in the House, the GOP will control committees, allowing them to push key initiatives and force Democrats from swing districts to take tough votes on controversial bills.

Republicans are also likely to use their temporary advantage to initiate long-sought investigations into the Walz administration, including scrutinizing allegations of fraud in state programs. This tactic could set the stage for contentious debates and shape public perception heading into the special elections.

Democratic leaders, including House Speaker Melissa Hortman, have voiced confidence that their party will regain control of the House after the special election. “A prompt special election will allow the voters of District 40B to ensure that they will be represented in the Minnesota House for the bulk of the session,” Hortman said in a statement.

What’s at Stake?

The temporary GOP majority underscores the fragility of power in Minnesota’s divided Legislature. Republicans are poised to leverage their short-term control to advance their policy priorities and investigations. Meanwhile, Democrats are focused on reclaiming lost ground in upcoming special elections.

With both parties positioning themselves for future legislative battles, Minnesota’s political landscape remains highly fluid. The outcome of the upcoming special elections will determine not only the balance of power but also the ability of either party to pass laws and influence the state’s legislative agenda.

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