## Minnesota Politics: A Post-Holiday Update (January 2, 2025)
A flurry of significant political developments unfolded in Minnesota during the recent holiday period. From the tragic passing of a state senator to unexpected shifts in legislative power and significant legal developments, the past ten days have reshaped the state’s political landscape.
The Passing of Senator Kari Dziedzic and its Legislative Ramifications:
Senator Kari Dziedzic, DFL-Minneapolis, passed away on December 27th after a prolonged battle with cancer. A key figure in the DFL’s successful 2023 legislative session, Senator Dziedzic was known for her dedication and behind-the-scenes work ethic. A visitation will be held on January 2nd from 5-8 p.m. at Kozlak-Radulovich Chapel (1918 University Ave. NE). Her death leaves the Minnesota Senate evenly split at 33-33 between Democrats and Republicans as it gavels into session on January 14th. Governor Tim Walz swiftly issued a writ for a special election to fill her seat, with candidates having a mere one-day window to file. Over a dozen individuals filed, including ten Democrats and three Republicans, reflecting the district’s Democratic leanings. A special primary is scheduled for January 14th, coinciding with the start of the legislative session, and the special election is set for January 28th.
Unexpected Republican Advantage in the House:
Simultaneously, a special election will be held on January 28th for a Roseville-area House seat. This follows a court ruling that DFL candidate Curtis Johnson did not meet residency requirements; Johnson has indicated he will not appeal. This creates a temporary Republican majority in the House (67-66) when the session commences. Republicans are poised to utilize this brief advantage to elect their Speaker of the House and committee chairs. Representative Lisa Demuth (R-Cold Spring), instrumental in securing the Republican majority, is the frontrunner for the Speakership. While a change of speakership mid-session is rare, requiring 68 votes to vacate the position, Representative Demuth’s hold on the Speakership is likely to remain secure even after the special election results in a tied chamber, provided she maintains Republican party unity. Although Republicans will lack the votes to pass legislation independently (requiring 68 votes), their control of the Speakership represents a significant power shift.
Other Notable Developments:
* House District 40B Special Election: On New Year’s Day, Democrats in House District 40B endorsed David Gottfried, a pro bono legal specialist. His residency is likely to face scrutiny from Republicans.
* Minneapolis Police Reform: The city of Minneapolis reached a tentative agreement with the Department of Justice to implement police reforms, as reported by the *Star Tribune*. This federal consent decree aims to address findings of excessive force, unlawful discrimination, and violations of free speech within the Minneapolis Police Department.
* Bob Kroll’s U.S. Marshal Bid: Former Minneapolis Police Union leader Bob Kroll is reportedly seeking President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination for Minnesota U.S. Marshal. This despite being banned from law enforcement in three populous counties due to a federal civil settlement.
* ”Amara’s Law” Takes Effect: A new state law banning PFAS (“forever chemicals”) in various products went into effect, named in honor of Amara Strande, who lobbied for the legislation before her death.
This period of intense political activity underscores the dynamic and often unexpected nature of Minnesota politics. The coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the direction of the state’s legislative agenda and governance.