In a surprising twist, Minnesota House Democrats swore in early on Sunday, two days ahead of the official start of the legislative session. This move, a first of its kind, comes as part of a tense standoff between Democrats and Republicans over control of the House. The showdown centers around a special election and a judge’s ruling that has temporarily shifted the balance of power.
The controversy began when a seat in the Roseville area, previously held by a Republican, became vacant due to a ruling that the representative violated state law by not living in the district. As a result, the House, which was previously evenly split at 67-67, now leans slightly Republican—though this advantage is only temporary.
Democrats made the bold decision to take the oath early, hoping to prevent Republicans from organizing the House with their one-seat advantage. Why? Because to run the House, there needs to be a quorum—or enough members present to conduct business. Democrats argue that the quorum should be 68, while Republicans claim it’s 67, given the vacancy.
Of course, Republicans were quick to call out this move, accusing Democrats of playing political games. GOP House Speaker-designate Lisa Demuth argued that swearing-in members ahead of the session was a clear violation of state law, stating, “Minnesotans sent us here to govern, not to play political games.”
But Democrats aren’t backing down. Rep. Melissa Hortman, DFL-Brooklyn Park, the DFL’s Speaker-designate, remains hopeful that a compromise can still be reached. “Denial of quorum is a legitimate parliamentary tactic,” she explained, pointing to a similar move by Michigan Republicans last year. She added that, despite the tension, she is optimistic about finding a solution.
Sunday’s oath was taken at the Minnesota History Center, with Judge Kevin Burke officiating. The cost of the space was covered by the House DFL’s campaign committee, according to Hortman. The ceremony marked the latest development in the ongoing back-and-forth between the two parties.
Looking ahead, Hortman suggested that she had proposed a temporary power-sharing agreement to GOP leadership, where Republicans would have control for a few weeks while the chamber’s imbalance lasts. But the GOP has dismissed this suggestion, saying the Democrats’ early oath-taking had “tainted” the negotiations.
With the legislature set to convene on Tuesday, the pressure is on for both sides to reach an agreement—especially with a similar power dispute ongoing in the state Senate. Whether or not they can find common ground remains to be seen.
As the situation unfolds, Minnesotans are left wondering: Can lawmakers work together, or will the political games continue?
