The Minnesota State House is paralyzed by a power struggle between Republicans and Democrats following a successful challenge to a Democratic representative's residency. Republicans, holding 67 seats, are attempting to govern despite a Minnesota Supreme Court ruling that requires a quorum of 68. Democrats are boycotting sessions, demanding a power-sharing agreement.
The Minnesota state House is locked in a power struggle after Republicans , despite holding only 67 seats, attempted to assume control of the chamber. The crux of the dispute lies in the interpretation of a quorum requirement. While Republicans argue a quorum of 68 is not necessary, Democrats maintain that it is, citing a recent Minnesota Supreme Court ruling. This disagreement stems from the successful challenge to the residency of a Democratic representative, leaving a vacancy in the House.
Last week, the Minnesota Supreme Court sided with the Democrats, ruling that a quorum of 68 is needed to conduct legislative business. Nonetheless, Republicans attempted to convene the House on Monday with only 67 members present. The House Speaker, recognizing the absence of a quorum, adjourned the session, effectively preventing Republicans from advancing their legislative agenda. This included a planned bill that aimed to withhold salaries from absent Democrats.House GOP leader Lisa Demuth expressed frustration at the Democrats' continued boycott, stating that 66 Democrats could have easily attended the session. She further criticized the Secretary of State for refusing to accept motions from duly elected House members. Meanwhile, Democratic House leader Melissa Hortman expressed optimism that a power-sharing agreement could be reached later this week, following weekend and Monday morning meetings between Demuth and herself. This optimistic outlook comes amidst a situation that could potentially last for another month until the Roseville special election, where Democrats are predicted to win, bringing the chamber back to a tie at 67-67
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