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The lead-up to the 2025 legislative session has been filled with an unprecedented level of uncertainty. The 2024 election resulted in a 67-67 tie in the House. DFL and Republican legislative leaders came to a tentative power-sharing agreement to organize the 2025 session, which included committee structure, co-chairs, and appointments. However, this agreement fell apart due to complicated situations with two House seats. The DFL winner of the House District 40B seat, Curtis Johnson, was ruled ineligible to assume the seat as the judge found he did not meet the district’s residency requirements. A special election on January 28 will fill this seat. While the voting history of the district historically leans DFL, the outcome remains to be seen. Should voters elect the DFL candidate, the body will again be tied — but for now, Republicans have a 67-66 operational majority.
The other point of contention this year is the House District 54A seat, where DFL Incumbent Brad Tabke won reelection by 14 votes. The validity of the election was called into doubt upon the discovery that 20 ballots were thrown out by accident, a significant development due to the razor-thin margins of the election. A recount was held to rectify the situation, which Tabke won. The Republican candidate for the district challenged this outcome in court, citing the 20 missing ballots, but on January 14 a Scott County judge upheld the Tabke win and stated that there is no basis for a special election. Despite this, House Republican leaders have suggested that they may refuse to seat Tabke.
Given these unique circumstances, the start of the 2025 Legislative session on January 14 was tumultuous. Republicans have committed to acting as the governing party in the House with their 67-66 operational majority, which includes forming committees and electing the Speaker of the House. The DFL response is to deny a quorum by not attending House proceedings until a power-sharing agreement is formed, or until the body is once again tied after the special election. The DFL exacerbated tensions further by swearing in their members over the weekend at the Minnesota History Center.
Both sides held firm on Tuesday, creating a strange sight on the House Floor. Secretary of State Steve Simon presided over a half-full House Floor, with all DFL members absent. Simon found that a quorum was not present and subsequently adjourned the body. Republicans challenged the decision and continued with business by electing Rep. Lisa Demuth as Speaker of the House. Members have been meeting in committee throughout the week, with only Republican members present. DFL members have been meeting with constituents and lobbyists remotely or in their districts. The DFL is suing House Republicans over what they call an “unconstitutional session.” Secretary of State Simon also filed a legal petition asking the Minnesota State Supreme Court to void Republicans’ actions. Republicans plan on going forward with the work of the House, but indicate they would abide by a Supreme Court ruling. Gridlock is expected for the foreseeable future.
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