Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Welcome to day 18 of the House DFL shutdown. That's right— it has been three weeks since House Democrats abandoned their responsibilities, turning their backs on the Constitution and refusing to show up to work. This legislative shutdown is not only blatantly disrespectful to their constituents, but the entire state of Minnesota.
On Monday, Secretary of State Steve Simon overstepped his authority, by interfering from the Executive Branch, undermining the House's ability to compel absent Democrat members to return to work. This blatant overreach violates the constitutional principle of the separation of powers. The Secretary of State does not have the authority to dictate matters within the legislative branch
House Republicans were sworn in on January 14th, elected Lisa Demuth as Speaker, and began legislative business. We acted responsibly and in full compliance with the Minnesota Constitution to serve the people of Minnesota. Despite this, our Democrat colleagues falsely labeled our actions as a "power grab." Nothing could be further from the truth—we acted responsibly and within our constitutional authority to serve the people of Minnesota.
If anyone is guilty of a "power grab," it's the Democrats. They’ve controlled the House for six years and held a complete trifecta for the past two years. Now they’re blocking legislative progress by insisting that 68 members are required for a quorum. However, the Minnesota Constitution states there are 134 elected representatives. Due to election misconduct in Roseville’s District 40B, where a Democrat candidate ran without living in the district—a fact known to everyone involved—only 133 members are properly seated. Half of 133 is 66.5, making 67 members a majority—and House Republicans meet that threshold. That’s why we’ve continued to gavel in daily, ready to do the state’s work.
Despite everything that has happened, House Republicans have showed up to work every day, doing what Minnesotans expect of us. We've had our sleeves rolled up since day one, ready to tackle important issues like public safety, cracking down on fraud, and strengthening our education system. We’re showing up, prepared to do the work we were sent here to do.
This is frustrating, to say the least, but I’m hopeful that common sense will prevail. Minnesotans deserve better—and House Republicans remain ready to serve with integrity, transparency, and accountability. We're here for you, and we’re not giving up!
Let’s get back to work and get it done for Minnesota! God Bless you all!
Sincerely,
Representative Joe McDonald
State Representative, District 29A
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