Last Monday (and into the early hours of Tuesday for our friends in the Senate) the Minnesota Legislature convened for a special session to pass remaining budget bills and finalize the state budget for 2026-2027. The House finished our business just before 11pm, successfully passing all remaining bills that fund the state government for the next two years. The final set of budgetary and policy decisions that we passed into law this session represents a compromise – in some instances, such as stripping healthcare away from immigrants in our community – a very painful compromise. In the end, there was a very real tension between the desire on my side of the aisle to protect and expand rights and protections for Minnesotans and a desire on the other side of the aisle to take them away. I know that I’m supposed to spend the next paragraphs railing against the system that led us to these choices and these battles, but I honestly feel that the budget we passed was reflective of the balance of power that the voters handed us last November. And elections have consequences – with the loss of the DFL trifecta, we weren’t able to raise revenue to fund programs being gutted by the Trump administration. We were forced to trim back the Earned Sick and Safe Time we fought so hard for last term to ensure that all workers in Minnesota can take the time they need without fear of losing their livelihood. This was a tough year. That said, in the most divided legislature in Minnesota history, we got it done. There was some grandstanding and stonewalling along the way, but we got it done. In the final minutes as I walked back to my car from the House Floor after over 12 hours of difficult debate, someone on the other side of the aisle gave me a really beautiful card, thanking me for my bipartisan work and saying that it gave this person faith that even in moments of political polarization, we can actually accomplish important things together. It really meant a lot to me, and inspired me further to “do my thing,” which is to continue to try and build bridges and understanding, even when it feels like the chasm between our belief structures is too big to gulf in this moment. I encourage you to do the same. In my mind, finding our common humanity will be the key to holding on to our democratic institutions and a shared future as truly United States. Over the summer and fall, I look forward to joining with community members to push back against the Trump Administration’s harmful actions that place our communities at risk in so many ways. Last week, I asked you to share how you’re fighting back, and I’m gratified to share some of the things members of the community reported back. Jennifer called her Representatives and signed petitions on things that matter to her. Eva stocked her little free library with banned books and children’s books that paint a diverse world like the one we live in. She also included red cards with information on immigrants’ constitutional rights. Wendy traveled to Washington DC to advocate for research funding for our universities. Dionne reminded us that an important part of fighting back is resting. We cannot be everywhere or do everything all at once, and it’s important to make time for self care so we can show up as the best version of ourselves. Notably, all of these acts were proactive and fueled by hope and optimism for a brighter future that is achievable if we work collectively. Remember that every act of resistance, whether big or small, makes an impact. And as you engage in these acts of resistance, I encourage you to do so in community. When we work together, we enhance one another’s strength and resolve. Throughout the interim, I am continuing to work for our community, families, and values. I commit to doing so in a way that brings people together and expands the pool of those who believe in our shared humanity and equal right to live peaceful, joyful lives. Please, continue to reach out to share the issues that matter most to you. |