ST. PAUL, Minn. – After several days of negotiations, DFL and Republican leaders in the Senate reached a bipartisan organizing agreement while the Senate is in a temporary tie. The agreement will be passed as a resolution on the Senate floor to ensures a smooth beginning to the 2025 Legislative Session.
“I am proud of the work and collaboration that resulted in this bipartisan organizing agreement so we can begin the session in without gridlock or political games,” said Senator Ann Johnson Stewart (DFL – Minnetonka). “After my special election, I am eager to get to work for my district, focusing on lowering costs for Minnesotans, building safe and thriving communities, and ensuring a sustainable future for everyone.”
Currently, the 67-member Senate is evenly divided between 33 DFL members and 33 Republican members, with Senate District 60 open following the death of Senator Kari Dziedzic in December. Under the terms of the agreement, which will be passed as a resolution during Tuesday’s opening of Session, power will be evenly divided between the DFL and Republican caucuses including the election of co-presiding officers of the Senate, temporary co-chairing of Committees, and evenly divided committee membership. These terms will remain in effect until there are 34 votes to end the agreement.
“Collaboration and mutual respect across party lines are values I prioritize in my work representing the constituents of Senate District 45,” said Senator Johnson Stewart. “I am happy to move forward under this agreement.”
Senator Johnson Stewart represents Senate District 45, which includes Minnetonka, Mound, Orono, Minnetrista, Shorewood, Wayzata, Deephaven, Excelsior, Spring Park, Tonka Bay, Woodland, Saint Bonifacius, Minnetonka Beach, Long Lake, and Greenwood.
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