 Dear neighbors, I have big news from the State House! Democrats have secured a hard-fought power-sharing agreement that honors and protects the will of the voters both in Shakopee and statewide. This agreement is what Democrats have been seeking all along. On the first day of session, House Republicans violated the state Constitution and attempted to seize power that voters did not give them. If a single Democrat had gone to the Capitol, we know Republicans would have kicked out a duly elected state representative from Shakopee and seized control of the Speakership and committees for the next two years, even though Minnesotans elected equal numbers of DFL and Republican state representatives. Democrats refused to let that happen, and were successful. Thanks to our efforts, Rep. Brad Tabke from Shakopee will serve his term in office, and Democrats and Republicans will share power if the House returns to a 67-67 tie. Committees will have co-chairs and equal numbers of DFL and Republican members. Passing a bill out of committee and on the House floor will require bipartisan support. I’m pleased to report that the 2025 session properly and lawfully got underway on Thursday, February 6. I’ve been working hard in our district over the past few weeks, and I’m excited to bring that work back to the State Capitol. I will continue working alongside Minnesotans to build a future where everyone can get ahead, not just the rich and powerful. I will continue to stand up for Minnesotans’ rights and freedoms, and I will do everything in my power to protect people from the chaos, cruelty, and incompetence coming out of the Trump Administration. Please continue to be in touch about your own priorities and to share your ideas. It’s an honor to represent you.   Town Hall with Attorney General Keith Ellison Join me and Rep. Liz Reyer for a town hall on medical debt with Attorney General Keith Ellison on Tuesday, February 18th at 6pm! You can RSVP at the link below. Location will be provided to those who RSVP before the event. RSVP!  Stay ConnectedUnfortunately, due to technological constraints, replies to this newsletter won’t reach my email account. To share your input or ideas, or if I can ever be of assistance, please feel free to reach out by email at rep.bianca.virnig@house.mn.gov, or by phone at 651-296-4192. You can contact my new Legislative Assistant, Isabel, at 651-296-5999 or via email at isabel.anderson@house.mn.gov. It is an honor and a privilege to represent you at the Capitol. All my best, Bianca Virnig State Representative |