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ROSEVILLE, Minn. (AP) — The Minnesota House of Representatives will begin the year with a narrow Republican majority, following a recent decision by a Democrat not to challenge the ruling of a judge regarding residency requirements. The ruling determined that the Democrat, Curtis Johnson, had not established residency in the district he was elected to represent.
Consequently, Republicans will hold a slim majority of 67-66 in the House when the Legislature convenes on January 14. However, this situation may change quickly, as Gov. Tim Walz has scheduled a special election for January 28 in the district, which leans Democratic and was won by Johnson by a significant margin of 30 points in November.
In his resignation letter, Johnson expressed his disagreement with the District Court’s conclusions but acknowledged that the Legislative body ultimately determines eligibility. “Rather than dragging this out further, I have decided to resign now, so that a special election can be held as soon as possible,” Johnson stated.
The ruling by Ramsey County Judge Leonardo Castro found that Johnson had not lived in the Roseville-area district for the required six months prior to the election, thus disqualifying him from serving. Evidence presented by Johnson’s Republican opponent, Paul Wikstrom, included surveillance footage and photographs that indicated Johnson was not residing at the apartment he claimed as his home. Reporting from the St. Paul Pioneer Press noted that the absence of utility service and the lack of regular activity at the apartment supported these findings.
Republican Rep. Lisa Demuth expressed satisfaction with the judge’s decision, stating that it confirms the GOP’s organizational majority from the start of the legislative session. Expecting an organized majority for the GOP, Demuth emphasized the importance of having a valid representative for District 40B in the upcoming legislative dealings.
While Republicans argue that with only 67 seats they have a slender majority, Democrats contend that at least 68 seats are necessary for outright control of the House. Nonetheless, Democrats retain a narrow lead in the Senate alongside Gov. Walz’s veto powers, which may help them block some Republican initiatives.
However, the Republican majority will enable them to control committee assignments, allowing them to move legislation to the floor. This dynamic could compel Democrats, especially those from swing districts, to make difficult votes on key issues. Additionally, the GOP is likely to pursue investigative actions focused on the Walz administration and its handling of fraud-related issues.
Demuth has also raised concerns regarding the timing of the special election set by Gov. Walz, questioning whether he has the authority to call for it before the Legislature certifies the vacancy officially. If found in favor of this argument, it could lead to an extended period of Republican control in the House. The secretary of state’s office stated that Walz’s decision to hold the special election is valid.
Regardless of when the election occurs, Democrats are optimistic about reclaiming the seat, as current House Speaker Rep. Melissa Hortman emphasized the importance of a timely election. “We expect the district will again vote to elect a Democrat by overwhelming margins,” she predicted.
A separate court case regarding another suburban district may potentially impact the balance of power as well. In that case, incumbent Democratic Rep. Brad Tabke was declared the winner by a narrow margin, even amid the controversy of 20 missing ballots. His legal team has presented testimony from voters who purportedly supported Tabke, strengthening his claim to the seat. A ruling from the judge is anticipated in the coming weeks, which will determine the next steps.
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