Melissa Hortman was a light to all of us in the #mnleg world.
As a reporter, I didn’t have the personal relationship with her that others might have had, but I believe that no one needs to earn the right to grieve.
Her incredible legacy will outlive the pain of her loss.
BREAKING: Sen. Justin Eichorn of Grand Rapids has been arrested for Solicitation of a Minor for Prostitution. The 40-year-old Republican is in custody in the Twin Cities, via Bloomington Police. #mnleg
More coming later, as we expect to hear from MN leaders later this afternoon, but MMB's budget summary shows a growing deficit on the horizon for MN (up about $850M from November) https://t.co/VbVSMPD7Dy
Good seeing and catching up with my friend @quinn_gorham at the Capitol. Tune in to @NorthernNewsNow tonight to hear us discuss @DuluthChamber’s Duluth & St. Louis County at the Capitol Days, priorities this year and progress we’re making.
NEW: Democrats and Republicans have reached a deal to end the Minnesota House stalemate. Deal includes making Republican Lisa Demuth speaker of the House for two years, gives GOP temporary control of committees. Story w/@bbierschbach https://t.co/dpELeb27Ba
Statement from Rep. Melissa Hortman on the 40B delay. DFL remains confident they’ll win back the 67th seat eventually.
In addition to ending with the special election, we could also see the ongoing MN House situation resolve if the MN Sup. Court weighs in on the quorum issue.
Statement from Rep. Melissa Hortman on the 40B delay. DFL remains confident they’ll win back the 67th seat eventually.
In addition to ending with the special election, we could also see the ongoing MN House situation resolve if the MN Sup. Court weighs in on the quorum issue.
Section of Sen. Mark Johnson (GOP Lead) statement: “Sen. Mitchell’s last-minute decision to request trial delay this week is an abuse of her status as a Senator. She also has the right to waive her privilege to a delay to bring this entire matter to a swift conclusion.” 1/2
MN Supreme Court orders that Governor Walz prematurely called for the special election that's at the center of the MN House controversy right now.
It appears the writ of special election will need to be reissued.
“This is not a victimless crime; this delay revictimized those involved, and Senate Republicans will not stand idly by while Sen. Mitchell abuses her position to deny justice.” 2/2
Section of Sen. Mark Johnson (GOP Lead) statement: “Sen. Mitchell’s last-minute decision to request trial delay this week is an abuse of her status as a Senator. She also has the right to waive her privilege to a delay to bring this entire matter to a swift conclusion.” 1/2
Walz's budget proposal to include sales tax cut, per Politico Playbook.
Btwn the lines: Interesting that Walz world gave this *state* budget tidbit first to national/inside-the-beltway pub, w/ Trump contrast framing, as he mulls plans for '26 + beyond
https://t.co/RviYap2Mvf
House GOP spokesperson response:
“The House is duly organized and Secretary Simon has no reason to be in the House Chamber. Secretary Simon concluded his duty as ceremonial presiding officer when he vacated the rostrum.”
Nothing on whether he was told he’d be denied entry.
According to a spox for MN Sec. of State Steve Simon, the Secretary was planning to convene the House each day at 3:30pm until he found a quorum present.
Upon providing notice, SOS staff was reportedly informed that House Republicans would deny him entry if he tried to enter.
Day 2 of the MN Legislative Session: DFLers continue their boycott. GOP Leader Lisa Demuth declared a quorum present as Republican members look to elect a chief clerk.
New, but expected — The Minnesota House DFL and Secretary of State Steve Simon both file lawsuits to the state Supreme Court challenging House Republicans organizing as a majority in the chamber yesterday #mnleg
As expected Sec. Steve Simon finds a quorum is not present without DFL members. Simon has adjourned the House.
Republicans have appointed a new presiding officer and continue to hold session.