DFL Absences Hinder Progress for MinnesotansAs we kick off the new legislative session, I want to take a moment to address some concerning actions recently taken by my Democrat colleagues. On the evening of January 12, DFL House members held a secret, illegitimate swearing-in ceremony— an act that not only undermined the formal oath process but was blatantly disrespectful to the hardworking voters who entrusted them with the responsibilities they were elected to carry out. To make matters worse, these members have refused to show up and do the work they were elected to do while continuing to collect taxpayer-funded paychecks. It completely surprises me that they would allow this situation to escalate to this point. As you may know, the Minnesota House was initially set to be tied 67-67 after the November 5 election. However, one Democrat, Curtis Johnson, was ruled ineligible to hold office. Johnson, who ran for the Roseville-area District 40B seat, was found to have violated residency requirements after a district judge determined he had not lived in the district for the required six months prior to the election. Because of this vacancy, the current full complement of the House is 133 members, not 134. With 67 Republican members present, we have a quorum, as 67 is more than 50% of the current full complement. As such, we moved forward with the work Minnesotans sent us here to do. I hope my DFL colleagues will take a step back, recognize the consequences of their actions, and recommit themselves to the people of Minnesota. There’s important work ahead, and Minnesotans deserve leaders who show up, engage, and put their best interests first. Please Contact MeAs always, I am here to serve you and ensure your voice is heard at the Capitol. Please feel free to reach out to my office with any questions or concerns. You can reach me by phone at 651-296-6829 or by email at rep.jim.joy@house.mn.gov. Have a great weekend!  Representative Jim Joy District 4B |