Legislative Update
Well folks,
The gavel has officially dropped, and the legislature is back in session! And let me tell you—House Republicans wasted no time getting down to business for the good of all Minnesotans. No lollygagging here!
We’re now in the second half of the legislative biennium, and with the state budget behind us, it’s the perfect time to dig into policies that make a major difference in our communities. Bonding legislation, folks! Fixing roads, improving infrastructure, investing in our communities so Minnesota can keep building for the future. This is your moment—if you’ve got ideas, concerns, or bright notions, now’s the time to holler. Don’t be shy!
I’m proud to continue serving as Chair of the Legacy Finance Committee, and on the Children and Families Finance and Policy Committee and Elections Finance and Government Operations Committee. These roles give me a front-row view of the issues that matter most—supporting our kids and families, keeping elections fair and honest, and protecting the heritage and resources that make Minnesota… well, Minnesota.
Now, speaking of honesty and trust, it’s only week one, and we’re already bumping into some head-scratchers across the aisle. On Wednesday, during our first House Children and Families Finance and Policy Committee hearing, House Republicans were laser-focused on shutting the door on fraud—but some Democrats? Still pretending it’s all a fairy tale.
I have to tip my hat to my good friend Dustin Grage for highlighting this hearing. Minnesotans need to see the reality: Democrats continue gaslighting voters about rampant fraud, turning their backs on accountability, and putting everyday people at risk. This fraud is very real, and folks cannot afford to lose another penny of their hard-earned money.
You can click on the photo below to view the clip from the hearing.
 Fraud of this scale isn’t just a headline; it’s a direct threat to programs meant for families, children, and communities across our state. Every dollar lost to fraud, waste or deception is a dollar that could’ve gone to education, public safety, healthcare, or local infrastructure. That’s why I’m committed to strong oversight, real accountability, and policies that actually protect taxpayers—no excuses, no passing the buck.
Minnesotans deserve honesty, integrity, and government that works for them—not against them. That means shining a light in every corner where fraud can hide, demanding answers, and making sure those responsible are held accountable. It also means crafting policies that support families and small businesses without letting bad actors drain the system dry.
This session is shaping up to be a big one, and I’m ready for the work ahead—optimistic, energized, and yes, with a little bit of cheekiness in my step. As always, your voices guide everything we do in St. Paul, so don’t hesitate to stop by, call, or even send a note. Tell me what’s working, what’s not, or what you’d like to see change. Your input isn’t just welcome—it’s essential!
Let’s get to it—Minnesota deserves nothing less, and I won’t settle for anything less than a government that truly serves the people.
— Representative Joe McDonald
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