Governor Tim Walz will go under the knife this week, which means a temporary transfer of power to Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan.
Walz' office says the governor will undergo a minor knee surgery Thursday at TRIA Orthopedic Center in Bloomington to repair a meniscus tear. Per Minnesota law, Governor Walz has informed the Speaker of the House and President of the Senate that he will be under general anesthetic during the surgery, so Flanagan will discharge the power and duties of the office during that time.
"After years of running, this minor surgery will help ensure I can hit the pavement again soon," Gov. Walz said. "I expect a smooth surgery and I have full confidence in Lieutenant Governor Flanagan to temporarily hold the power of the office while I am under anesthesia."
Last year, then-Governor Mark Dayton underwent back surgery, which led to questions about who was in charge of the state at the time.
