A power-sharing agreement in the Minnesota House has given Republicans temporary control after weeks of Democratic boycotts. The standoff began with a court decision deeming a Democratic representative-elect ineligible, shifting the House balance to a 67-66 Republican majority.

Democrats protested, viewing the Republican efforts to capitalize on their temporary advantage as an "abuse of power." Their boycott, which started on January 14th, prevented the House from reaching a quorum and conducting business. Republicans responded by threatening recall efforts against the boycotting Democrats.

The newly reached agreement ensures Republican leader Lisa Demuth will serve as House Speaker for a full two-year term, regardless of the outcome of the upcoming March 11th special election. This election could potentially restore a 67-67 tie.

Under the current Republican majority, the GOP holds all committee chair positions and a one-vote advantage on all committees. Should the special election result in a tie, committee leadership will be shared, with alternating control over agendas and schedules. However, the Fraud Prevention and Agency Oversight Committee will remain under Republican control.

Demuth emphasized the Republicans' focus on addressing the state budget, tackling fraud, and improving K-12 education, citing declining test scores under Governor Walz’s leadership. She criticized the governor's lack of communication and partisan approach during the standoff, stating that he hadn’t contacted her during the boycott.

Demuth also pointed to the reason for the special election—the ineligibility of the Democratic candidate—as evidence of wrongdoing on the Democrats' part.

While Governor Walz earlier encouraged a power-sharing agreement, Demuth believes his actions have been detrimental to the people of Minnesota. The Republican State Leadership Committee congratulated Demuth on her leadership role, highlighting the voters' desire for a check on Governor Walz's "extreme liberal agenda."