Minnesota State Senator Carla Nelson (R-Rochester) returned to the capitol on January 14 for the beginning of the 2025 session of the Minnesota Legislature. The Senate begins in a 33-33 tie, as leaders from the Senate Republicans and Democrats announced a power-sharing agreement that will allow the Senate to govern as long as the Senate remains tied.

“It’s great to be back at the Capitol, representing the people of Dodge and Olmsted Counties,” Senator Nelson said. “Thank you to everyone for placing your trust in me. It’s an honor to serve you, and I’m excited to put Minnesotans first and get to work addressing the issues that matter most to our communities.”  

The top issue for the legislature is the construction of a new state budget. After Democrats used their one-party control in 2023 and 2024 to raise spending by 40%, spend the entirety of the $19 billion surplus, and raise another $10 billion taxes, a report issued by the office of Minnesota Management and Budget last December projected a looming $5.1 billion deficit. 

Senator Nelson will serve as vice chair of the Senate Jobs and Economic Development Committee, and as a member of the Bonding, Transportation, and Taxes Committees. 

Key items in the power-sharing agreement include: 

• Each caucus leader will appoint a co-presiding officer; caucus leaders will agree who will convene each day. 

• Each committee has joint chairs, with gavel sharing determined by the chairs. 

• Equal representation of DFL and GOP members on committees. 

• No changes to Senate rules through 2025. 

• Agreement is in place until there are 34 votes to end the agreement. 

“The power-sharing agreement shows what’s possible when we put Minnesota first,” Senator Nelson said. “The timing couldn’t be more important, or more urgent. We need to set the next state budget as Minnesota faces a projected $5 billion structural deficit just around the corner. This isn’t a time for gridlock or political stunts. It is a time for rolling up our sleeves and finding solutions to these tough problems together.  

“I’m proud of how both parties have approached this unique situation. Now comes the real test: turning this promising start into lasting results for the people of Minnesota.” 

Contact information 

Constituents are encouraged to contact Senator Nelson with any questions, concerns, or feedback:  

Email: sen.carla.nelson@mnsenate.gov 

Phone: 651-296-4848  

Stay Informed! 

Subscribe to Senator Nelson’s weekly email newsletter for legislative updates, Capitol news, district events, and opportunities to provide input on the issues being discussed: https://www.senate.mn/SenatorNelson