Residents of Anoka, Ramsey, Andover, and Coon Rapids denied representation

(St. Paul. MN…) Senate Republicans today questioned the Senate DFL’s refusal to approve committee assignments for newly-elected Sen. Jim Abeler (R-Anoka). The request was sent to Majority Leader Tom Bakk the same day Sen. Abeler was sworn in, over two weeks ago.

Instead of approving the simple request to fill Republican vacancies left by Sen. Abeler’s predecessor, as provided for in Senate rules, Sen. Bakk responded that he would do so only if the GOP minority agreed to allow him to stack committees with more DFL senators.

“This abuse of power by Sen. Bakk and the DFL majority should be condemned by all Minnesotans, regardless of political affiliation,” said Republican Leader David Hann. “It is unheard of to deny citizens of Minnesota their voice in the Minnesota Senate. Senator Bakk should do the right thing and allow Sen. Abeler to serve on Senate committees.”