The Majority Leader of the Minnesota Senate says she's optimistic about bipartisan support in the upcoming legislative session despite a divided government.
DFL Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy telling former Minnesota Republican Governor Tim Pawlenty, filling in for Adam and Jordana on WCCO, there are a few top priorities to tackle right off the bat.
"It would be wise for us to take up an early infrastructure package, to continue to demonstrate to Minnesotans the seriousness of our work, and to make sure that the things that we're responsible for are functioning well," Murphy said.
She adds there are other areas where she's optimistic about working with Republicans, including mental health care, and the transportation, agriculture and human services budgets. The DFL holds a one-seat majority in the Minnesota Senate. The House is evenly split in the midst of two recounts.
"We know that there is a shortage of that, and care for people with substance abuse disorder," says Murphy. "There are Democrats and Republicans alike who are concerned about that and I think we can find a way there to continue to make progress for people."
Republican speaker-designate Lisa Demuth also joined former Governor Pawlenty (R) Friday on WCCO Radio, and talked about the upcoming budget process.
"We had that $18 billion surplus that was spent, and we know some of that is structural," Demuth says. "So we're looking at an impending deficit that brings grave concern to any legislator. But we have to make wise decisions as we're looking at the budget both for the next two years and then ongoing."
Demuth says the state's budget will have to take center stage when lawmakers return to St. Paul early next year.
"So we're looking at how we can kind of cut back on overtaxing Minnesotans being responsible with it," Demuth says. "But the $18 billion surplus was one thing, knowing that our state budget increased by another 38%. It's not sustainable."
Scott County will recount the 54A House race November 21st where Rep. Brad Tabke leads challenger Aaron Paul by 14 votes.
The 94th legislative session convenes Tuesday, January 14.