Minnesota House Deadlock Nears Resolution with Tentative Deal

A prolonged stalemate in the Minnesota House may be nearing resolution as Democrats and Republicans have reached a tentative agreement to end the deadlock, which began on January 14 due to a Democratic boycott over power-sharing disputes. In response to the boycott, Minnesota Republicans have launched recall petitions against all 66 Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) House members for not attending the session, although the recall process is lengthy and has never resulted in a legislator's removal in Minnesota history. The GOP, holding a narrow 67-66 majority, is seeking to compel DFL members to return to the capitol amidst ongoing negotiations and a looming special election that could result in a power-sharing scenario if Democrats win the vacant seat. Meanwhile, tensions are further heightened by other pressing state issues like budget deficits and declining educational achievements, which Republicans argue are being neglected due to the boycott. The special election to fill the vacant seat is scheduled for March 11, potentially altering the balance of power in the House.