As the curtain falls on the 2024 legislative session, I find myself deeply saddened and even disturbed by the actions taken by the Democrat majorities in the legislature. Their approach to governing has not only undermined the integrity of our legislative process but has also silenced the voices of countless Minnesotans. This session – marked by delays, secrecy, and a blatant disregard for basic rules – stands as one of the most disappointing in this state’s history.
From the onset, it was clear that the Democrats, with their complete control over the House, Senate, and Governor’s office, were intent on pushing through their agenda at all costs — regardless of the consequences. They wasted time all year. This session had the most late bills in history, by a wide margin. They delayed and delayed and delayed, and then scheduled light floor days as the end of session grew closer. Then, in the literal final hour, they introduced a 1,400-page monstrosity of a bill encompassing at least 10 different wide subject areas. This bill, which appeared loaded with controversial and extreme measures, was thrust upon us without adequate time for review or debate. Then they brought it up for a vote, allowed zero debate, and forced it into law less than an hour after creating it.
This appalling behavior wasn’t just a failure of process — it was a deliberate effort to silence the minority party and, by extension, half of Minnesota. The Democrat leaders ignored virtually every Senate rule and procedure, ensuring that the bill wasn’t available online and that even physical copies were nonexistent. They prepared this action in secret while we were trying hard to negotiate in good faith.
To be clear: A few years ago, Republicans created a similar all-encompassing bill at the end of session. There were some big differences though. Ours was much smaller, made public much earlier, and given a debate. Still, I did not like it then, and what the Democrats did this year was far, far, more egregious.
I am worried about what this means for the integrity of our legislature. The actions taken by the Democrat majority have strained relationships and trust to a point where some may be beyond repair. It’s disheartening to see the institution I respect so deeply being manipulated in such a cynical manner. I don’t know how we can recover right now.
What is most troubling is what this means for the people of Minnesota. Their voices – your voices – have effectively been silenced. The lack of transparency and accountability in this process is appalling. The Democrats have shown that their primary concern is not the well-being of regular Minnesotans but the relentless pursuit of their extreme agenda.
Despite good faith offers and attempts at open communication from Republican leaders, Democrats chose to work only with each other on a hyper-partisan, activist-driven agenda. This approach even further alienates and disenfranchises nearly half of Minnesotans who did not support the Democrat agenda last election. The final bill, released at the eleventh hour, is a testament to this. We are still reading through it, but it appears to be filled with provisions that raise taxes, increase energy costs, and threaten the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens—all while ensuring that political appointees receive pay increases.
If nothing else, this is a stark reminder of the dangers of single-party control. It is a demonstration of how power can corrupt and how the ends, in the eyes of those in control, can justify any means.
Minnesotans deserve better. You deserve leaders who are transparent, accountable, and willing to work across the aisle for the common good.
As we move forward, I urge my colleagues and constituents to remember this moment. This is not just about partisan politics; it is about the very core of our democratic process. We must strive to restore integrity and trust in our legislative body.
We must ensure that the voices of all Minnesotans are heard and respected.