SAINT PAUL – On January 14, 2025, Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon presided over the opening session of the House of Representatives for the start of the 2025-26 Legislative Session. After a roll call, Secretary Simon determined a quorum was not met under the standards established by the Minnesota Constitution and state law. He then adjourned the body.
Despite advance notice of this determination, House Republicans proceeded to reconvene the legislative session without legal authority. Secretary Simon intends to file a petition with the Supreme Court to make clear to the public that these proceedings were not legally legitimate.
Secretary Simon issued the following statement:
“Minnesota’s Laws and Constitution are clear on the Secretary of State’s authority to preside over the House of Representatives until it establishes a quorum to and elects a speaker. I have no interest in being part of a partisan struggle, but the authority granted by state law to the Secretary of State was violated today after the house adjourned.
I have made very clear to both caucuses and the public ahead of convening my legal conclusion that 68 members are required for the House to conduct business. I anticipate that the courts will provide clarity both on that issue and on the understanding that the person who holds the Secretary of State’s office is the presiding officer until a Speaker is legally elected – an event which has not yet occurred.”