Republicans Secure Temporary Majority in Minnesota House After Court Disqualifies Democrat

A judge ruled that Democratic candidate Curtis Johnson failed to meet residency requirements, shifting the chamber's balance of power until a special election is held.

Ramsey County District Court Judge Leonardo Castro ruled that Democrat Curtis Johnson did not meet the six-month residency requirement to serve in Minnesota House District 40B.
The decision gives Republicans a 67-66 majority in the Minnesota House, ending a previously expected 67-67 tie heading into the 2025 legislative session.
Johnson won his election by a wide margin but was disqualified after evidence, including surveillance footage, suggested he did not reside in the district as required by law.
Democrats plan to appeal the ruling to the Minnesota Supreme Court, which could potentially reverse the decision before the legislative session begins on January 14, 2025.
A special election will be held to fill the vacant District 40B seat, a Democratic-leaning district, but Republicans are expected to leverage their temporary majority to set leadership and committee structures.