News Release
Rep. Bidal Duran: Budget Forecast Shows Minnesota on an Unsustainable Path
St. Paul — Representative Bidal Duran (R Bemidji) released the following statement in response to today’s state budget forecast:
“The new forecast paints a very clear picture. Yes, we are seeing a short-term surplus of $2.5 billion, but that does not mean our finances are healthy. The long-term outlook shows Minnesota is heading toward a another multi-billion dollar deficit in 2028 and 2029, and if the current surplus is spent instead of saved, that deficit could reach $5.4 billion. That is the consequence of decisions made when Democrats controlled every lever of power at the Capitol. Spending was increased by 40 percent, the entire $18 billion surplus was used up, and taxes were raised by another $10 billion, yet we are still not bringing in enough revenue to keep up with what they committed to spend. That is not responsible budgeting.”
Duran emphasized that growing fraud and waste remain a drag on the state budget.
“We also cannot afford to ignore what has been happening across our state agencies,” Duran said. “Minnesota has allowed fraud to get out of control, and taxpayers are left footing the bill every time money goes to criminals instead of helping the people who truly need it.”
Duran said the Legislature must take corrective action and protect Minnesotans from the consequences of the spending surge.
“We owe it to every family, every worker, and every small business to change course now,” Duran continued. “Minnesota’s financial future depends on leadership that understands the importance of living within our means.”
An updated February forecast will provide further guidance for the 2026 legislative session.
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