The Minnesota House of Representatives encounters a sudden shift in power as Republicans briefly claim the majority due to a Democrat’s residency dispute, leaving many wondering about the future dynamics.
At a Glance
- Republicans gain temporary control of the Minnesota House with a 67-66 majority.
- Democrat Curtis Johnson resigned after failing to meet residency requirements.
- A special election is scheduled for January 28.
- Republican Rep. Lisa Demuth is set to become House speaker temporarily.
Residency Dispute Leads to Republican Majority
Following a District Court ruling, Democrat Curtis Johnson announced his resignation from the Minnesota House of Representatives after it was determined that he failed to meet the residency requirements for the district he was elected to represent. Johnson chose not to appeal the decision, leading Republicans to gain a narrow majority with 67 seats compared to the Democrats’ 66.
“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,” Johnson said.
Republicans will start the year with at least a temporary majority in the Minnesota House after a Democrat decided not to appeal a judge's decision that he failed to establish residency in the suburban district he was elected to represent. https://t.co/yX4NyAO0G8
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) December 28, 2024
The temporary Republican majority allows for a brief period during which the GOP, under the leadership of Rep. Lisa Demuth, can set early legislative procedures and priorities. “This confirms that Republicans will have an organizational majority on day one,” Demuth said.
The Republican majority enables control over committees and presents an opportunity to move forward with Republican plans and launch investigations. However, Democrats argue that 68 seats are required to pass laws or maintain true control.
Looking Ahead to the Special Election
A special election is scheduled for January 28 in the vacant Democratic-leaning district. Representative Melissa Hortman commented, “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.”
The Democrats remain confident that they will reclaim the lost seat. In the meantime, the delicate power balance in Minnesota’s divided legislature underscores the ongoing political complexities and the power’s transient nature.
