Republicans gain temporary control of Minnesota House after Democrat decides not to appeal ruling

Summary

Republicans temporarily gain a 67-66 majority in the Minnesota House after Democrat Curtis Johnson resigned over a residency ruling.

Johnson, deemed ineligible by a judge, chose not to appeal, prompting Gov. Tim Walz to schedule a Jan. 28 special election in the Democratic-leaning district Johnson won by 30 points.

Republicans will control committees and legislative processes until then, potentially advancing their agenda and launching investigations into the Walz administration.

Meanwhile, the Minnesota Senate is split 33-33 after a Democratic senator’s death, with another special election pending.

Democrats remain confident of regaining both seats.