Minnesota Democrats wield trifecta of power as legislative session convenes

Minnesota Democrats will assume complete control of state government this week, with an expansive agenda built up over years of divided government and a massive budget surplus to help make their priorities a reality.

Democrats want to use control of the House, Senate and governor's office to codify abortion protections in law, expand voting rights and create a new statewide paid leave program during the legislative session that convenes on Tuesday. Billions of dollars could flow toward new investments in classrooms, child care, climate change initiatives and infrastructure.

"The reason you have political capital is to do something," said House Speaker Melissa Hortman, DFL-Brooklyn Park. "Our goal to have a trifecta isn't just to beat Republicans - it is because we want to take action."

https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-democrats-wield-trifecta-of-power-as-legislative-session-convenes/600239802/