FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACT:
Caleb Jungling, 651.296.5529 (desk)
Caleb.Jungling@house.mn.gov
News Release
Representative Dave Baker Takes Oath of Office, Begins Sixth Term
ST. PAUL, MN – Representative Dave Baker (R-Willmar) took the oath of office on Tuesday, officially beginning his sixth term as the representative for District 16B, which includes the city of Willmar and most of Kandiyohi County.
Prior to the start of the session, Baker was appointed to the Energy Finance and Policy and Ways and Means Committees. He was also named chair of the Labor and Workforce Development Finance and Policy Committee.
“I am honored to serve the people of District 16B and excited to continue working on the issues that matter most to our communities,” said Representative Baker. “As chair of the Labor and Workforce Development Finance and Policy Committee, I am committed to fostering an environment where employees and job creators alike can thrive. By focusing on strengthening our workforce, reducing barriers for businesses, and expanding opportunities for economic growth, we can ensure Minnesota remains a place where families and businesses prosper. I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to build a stronger future for all Minnesotans.”
The opening of the 2025 legislative session marked a historic moment as Republicans elected Representative Lisa Demuth as Speaker of the Minnesota House. Rep. Baker began the speaker nominations by describing what qualities a leader, and a speaker, should have. “Electing a speaker is one of our most important duties in the House. We need someone who carries the qualities of civility, trust, wisdom, inclusiveness, patience, and grace,” Baker said. “I proudly nominated Lisa Demuth because she is a leader who exemplifies these qualities.”
Despite Democrats' efforts to block the session by not attending the opening day, House Republicans forged ahead, ensuring the people's work would not be delayed.
With a 67-66 Republican majority, House Republicans are focused on six key policy pillars for the session:
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Stop the Fraud: Tackle waste, fraud, and abuse in government programs to restore trust and accountability.
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Make Minnesota Affordable: Implement policies to reduce costs for families and businesses.
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Make Minnesota Safe: Support law enforcement and enhance public safety initiatives.
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Raise Standards, Reduce Mandates: Improve educational outcomes while reducing burdensome regulations.
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Minnesota Tax Dollars for Minnesotans: Ensure taxpayer funds directly benefit Minnesota residents.
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Build for the Future: Invest in sustainable infrastructure to strengthen the state’s economy and communities.
House Republicans are committed to working across the aisle to deliver meaningful results for Minnesotans while remaining steadfast in their priorities to create a safer, more affordable, and prosperous state.
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Constituents can contact Representative Baker by email at Rep.Dave.Baker@house.mn.gov or by phone at 651.296.6205. His office is located on the second floor of the Centennial Office Building. Mail can be sent to:
Representative Dave Baker 2nd Floor Centennial Office Building 658 Cedar Street St. Paul, MN 55155
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