NW Twin Cities

House Republicans in Minnesota have continued to meet daily at the Capitol despite an ongoing legislative shutdown, according to Representative Joe McDonald (R-Delano). In a recent update, McDonald criticized House Democrats for what he described as abandoning their responsibilities and causing a three-week halt in legislative activity.

"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," McDonald stated.

He also addressed actions by Secretary of State Steve Simon, alleging interference from the executive branch. "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," said McDonald.

McDonald explained that House Republicans were sworn in on January 14th and elected Lisa Demuth as Speaker before beginning legislative business. He asserted that these actions were taken responsibly and in compliance with the Minnesota Constitution. "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."

He argued that if any group was guilty of a power grab, it was Democrats who have controlled both chambers for several years. According to McDonald, they are now blocking progress by insisting on a quorum number based on 134 representatives rather than 133, due to election misconduct in District 40B which left one seat improperly filled.

"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," he said.

McDonald emphasized that Republicans have been present every day and prepared to address key issues such as public safety, fraud prevention, and education improvements.

"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."

He concluded with optimism about resolving the impasse: "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!"