Democratic-Farmer-Labor Secretary of State Steve Simon and the House DFL have filed lawsuits to stop Republicans from taking control of the House for the next two years, arguing it’s unconstitutional for them to move forward without Democrats present.

On January 14, 2025, Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon presided over the opening session of the House of Representatives for the… Login to continue reading Login Sign up for complimentary acces

Republicans hold a 67-66 plurality ahead of a special election for a House seat on January 28 after a judge ruled that the Democrat who won in Roseville didn’t actually live in that district and violated state law. The two House Leaders had discussed power-sharing following the election, assuming there would be a 67-67 tie.

The unprecedented start of the legislative session went on with the usual pomp and formality of years prior. As if the Democratic half of the chamber weren’t empty, and the rules on how to proceed not the source of vehement dispute.

Simon’s opinion comes while Democrats are threatening a no-show if Republicans do not agree to a power-sharing agreement.

After Secretary of State Steve Simon sent the House into recess after saying there wasn't a quorum presence, the 67 Republicans present moved to remove Simon and instate Paul Anderson to take the roster.