St. Paul Reporter

Minnesota’s legislative session has been stalled for 18 days, with the House unable to conduct business due to the absence of a quorum. Representative Nathan Nelson (R-Mora) stated that House Democrats have not fulfilled their constitutional duties, leaving the state without a functioning legislature.

On Monday, Secretary of State Steve Simon became involved in the dispute. According to Rep. Nelson, “Secretary of State Steve Simon overstepped his constitutional authority by interfering from the Executive Branch, undermining the House’s ability to compel absent Democrat members to return to work. This frustrating move sets a very concerning precedent, but it does not change our mission as House Republicans, to continue showing up and serving the people of Minnesota.”

Rep. Nelson said that Republican legislators have continued attending daily meetings at the Capitol in St. Paul despite the lack of progress. He emphasized that “Since day one, my Republican colleagues and I have been here in St. Paul, sleeves rolled up and ready to tackle the issues that matter most to Minnesotans. We’ve been patient, but the clock is ticking. The state’s essential budget must be passed, and countless other priorities demand our attention.”

Nelson also called on Democratic members to return so that legislative work can resume: “All it would take is for just one Democrat member to join us and provide a quorum so that we can resume the work Minnesotans sent us here to do. We cannot afford any more delays—families, communities, and businesses are counting on us.”

House Republicans have identified several ongoing priorities including addressing fraud in government programs, making life more affordable for families facing higher costs, raising educational standards while reducing mandates on schools, enhancing public safety across communities, and building an economic environment supportive of investment and job creation.

Nelson concluded by stating: “It’s disappointing that we’ve reached this point, but my colleagues and I remain committed to serving you with integrity, transparency, and accountability. Minnesotans deserve leaders who show up, do the work, and deliver results.

It’s time for House Democrats to put partisanship aside, end this shutdown, and join us at the table. Let’s get back to the work the people of Minnesota expect and deserve!”

He encouraged constituents with questions or concerns about pending legislation or other matters to contact his office by phone or email.