Minnesota House Democrats Boycott Session to Block Temporary GOP Majority

Democratic lawmakers refuse to attend the opening session, preventing Republicans from leveraging a one-vote majority to set legislative rules.

The Minnesota House is currently tied 67-67, but a court ruling disqualified a Democratic member, giving Republicans a temporary 67-66 edge until a special election on January 28.
Democrats staged a private swearing-in ceremony and announced a boycott of the session to deny Republicans the quorum needed to elect a speaker and establish committee leadership.
Republicans plan to use their temporary majority to set legislative rules for the next two years and are contesting the seating of Democratic Rep. Brad Tabke, who won reelection by 14 votes after absentee ballot issues.
The Minnesota GOP has threatened to pursue recalls against Democratic lawmakers for failing to attend, citing 'nonfeasance' as grounds for removal.
The state Senate, also tied after a vacancy, has agreed to a temporary power-sharing arrangement until its own special election on January 28.