Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Tuesday, January 14th, marked the official start of the 2025 legislative session, and the Minnesota Senate wasted no time getting to work on behalf of Minnesotans.

On day one, the Senate took a significant step toward fostering bipartisan cooperation by passing several motions and unanimously approved a resolution to establish a power-sharing agreement between Democrats and Republicans. With the Senate currently split 33-33, this agreement ensures that both parties will have an equal say in shaping the legislative agenda. Specifically, it calls for equal membership on all committees, ensuring that decisions are made collaboratively.

Additional key provisions of the agreement include:

• Each caucus leader will appoint a co-presiding officer to ensure shared leadership.
• A permanent increase in Republican committee membership once the power-sharing agreement expires.
• The creation of a new Senate Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs to better address the needs of those who served our country.
• A commitment to maintaining the current Senate rules throughout 2025, ensuring stability in the legislative process.
• The agreement will remain in effect until one party secures 34 votes to terminate it, guaranteeing that power remains balanced for the foreseeable future.

This fair-minded and balanced agreement reflects a strong commitment to working together for the people of Minnesota. It exemplifies what can be accomplished when both sides prioritize cooperation and compromise.

In stark contrast, on the first day of the legislative session, the Minnesota House of Representatives saw a breakdown in cooperation. With a very narrowly divided makeup, an agreement has been much harder to attain. It is my hope that soon they can find a path forward to get our important work done.

As the session continues, we must focus on what truly matters. We need to help Minnesotans with the high cost of living, rein in spending, and hold the government accountable for delivering results. Keeping our communities safe—from crime prevention to prosecution—remains a top priority. It is also essential to crack down on waste, fraud, and the abuse of state tax dollars. Strengthening families and protecting children will be another key focus.

Stay tuned for more updates as the session progresses!

Sincerely,

Jim Abeler

Minnesota Senate, District 35