Minnesota’s political landscape may shift as House Republicans could potentially lead a majority heading into the 2025 legislative session. A recent ruling from Ramsey County Judge Leonardo Castro determined that Democratic candidate Curtis Johnson did not fulfill residency requirements for his Roseville-area district, causing him to be deemed ineligible for office, according to reports. In response, House Democrats have indicated plans to immediately appeal to the Minnesota Supreme Court.
Legislative leaders from both parties had initially anticipated a 67-67 tie when the Legislature reconvenes on January 14. Consequently, discussions for a power-sharing agreement were already underway. Should Johnson ultimately be prohibited from taking his seat, Republicans would hold a narrow 67-66 majority until a special election could be organized in the district known to lean Democratic.
Additionally, a separate legal case in another suburban district is poised to impact the House’s power balance. In a close race, incumbent Democratic Rep. Brad Tabke of Shakopee prevailed by merely 14 votes over Republican challenger Aaron Paul, despite the controversy surrounding 20 ballots that were reportedly discarded after being accepted but not counted. During a recent hearing, attorneys representing Tabke presented testimony from six voters who confirmed their support for him, potentially securing his victory. A ruling on the matter is anticipated within the coming weeks.
Currently, Democrats maintain a single-vote majority in the state Senate. Thus, regardless of developments in the disputed House races, Minnesota is set to experience a level of divided government in 2025 after two years of unified Democratic control. The state will join a small group of states with a divided legislature next year.
Republican Paul Wikstrom, who was Johnson’s opponent, sought the court’s ruling after compiling surveillance footage and photographs aimed at proving Johnson’s residency claims were unfounded. Judge Castro noted that Johnson’s credibility was severely diminished due to his demeanor during testimony, coupled with the supporting evidence from Wikstrom’s camp.
“This serves as a significant reminder regarding the importance of laws and the necessity of integrity within the electoral process,” stated House Republican leader Lisa Demuth.
Conversely, current House Speaker Melissa Hortman asserted that Johnson should retain his seat, having won by a substantial margin of 7,503 votes.
“The court made a legal mistake by not dismissing this case,” Hortman asserted, further contesting Demuth’s comments made on WCCO Radio suggesting that Republicans would solely control the House going forward.
“Speaker-designate Demuth is mistaken. We anticipate a tied House when the session kicks off on January 14,” she concluded.