Newsmakers: Rep. Frazier Talks Governor’s Budget, House DFL Boycott
This story has been updated to reflect a Minnesota Supreme Court ruling that will effectively postpone a Jan. 28 special election to a later date.
It’s been a historic and unprecedented week in Minnesota legislative history.
First, DFL lawmakers blocked a quorum — which Republicans contested — due to a dispute over the election of a Shakopee representative. Then, Governor Tim Walz released a budget proposal that calls for the lowering of the state’s sales tax rate, which would be a state first, but also calls for cuts that some DFL lawmakers disagree with.
Rep. Cedrick Frazier, DFL-New Hope, gave perspective on both fronts in “Newsmakers.”
“Times are hard right now, prices are high and people are really looking for some type of relief on that,” said Frazier, referring to the possible sales tax reduction. “We also have to make sure, be careful that we don’t put that burden on our most vulnerable people.”
Frazier also said how he continues to speak with Republicans on resolving differences, but said it’s unlikely DFL lawmakers will return to the House before the Jan. 28 special election, which could lead the House back to a 67-67 split.
“I would say it’s probably a safe bet we’re probably not going to be back before that Jan. 28 special election, although I will say my colleagues on the other side are actually suing to stall that special election, so I’m hoping we stay on track,” said Frazier.
However, late Friday, any hopes of returning sooner were likely quashed. The Minnesota Supreme Court ruled that Governor Walz prematurely called for the special election, meaning the Jan. 28 date must be canceled and pushed off to a later date.
The Supreme Court said Rep. Jamie Becker-Finn of Roseville was still technically in office when the special election was ordered. Becker-Finn did not seek re-election. The candidate who won the House seat last fall, DFLer Curtis Johnson, did not meet residency requirements, a judge ruled last month. A special election is needed to fill the seat.
Also See: Newsmakers: Senator Warren Limmer Talks Budget Challenges
