Saturday February 21, 2026

Governor Walz, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan Pay Tribute to Speaker Hortman

On Tuesday, Governor Walz, First Lady Walz, and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan joined members of the Minnesota House of Representatives and the Minnesota Senate to pay tribute to the late Speaker of the House Melissa Hortman.

"Today the Minnesota House gaveled into session for the first time since we lost Speaker Hortman, Mark, and Gilbert. In the spirit of Melissa, we commit to doing our work with humility, grace, and compassion," said Governor Walz.

"Speaker Hortman’s work will be felt for generations to come, not just in this chamber - but in the lives of every child who grows up in a better Minnesota. And every time I pet a Golden, I’ll think of her," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. 

The Governor's full remarks from the House floor are available to watch here.

ICYMI: As Federal Surge Ends, Governor Walz Proposes $10 Million Relief Package for Minnesota Small Businesses Impacted by Federal Surge

Following Border Czar Tom Homan’s announcement that the federal surge in Minnesota is coming to an end, Governor Walz thanked Minnesotans for being decent, caring neighbors and some of the toughest damn people you’ll ever find. The Governor noted that the long road to recovery starts now. The impact on our economy, our schools, and people’s lives won’t be reversed overnight. That work starts today.  

He also announced a proposal for $10 million one-time emergency relief aimed at Minnesota businesses that have been impacted by the operation. The funding will be part of the Governor’s 2026 legislative session package and would be administered through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). The Governor was joined by DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek, CentroMex Supermarket owner Henry Garnica, and small business owners.  

"The campaign of retribution by the federal administration has been more than a short-term disruption; it has inflicted long-term damage on Minnesota communities," said Governor Walz. "Recovery will not happen overnight. Families, workers, and business owners are feeling the effects, and our responsibility is clear: we will help rebuild, stabilize these businesses, protect jobs, and ensure Minnesota’s economy can recover and thrive."

Social Media Post of the Week