Minnesota lawmakers pick new leaders; Harry Niska to lead House Republicans

Minnesota House Republicans chose Rep. Harry Niska of Ramsey as minority leader on Friday, with Rep. Jim Nash of Waconia as deputy minority leader. House Democrats, who are expected to hold 77 seats to Republicans' 57 pending a recount in District 32A, chose Rep. Zack Stephenson of Coon Rapids as speaker-designate. Senate Democrats reelected Sen. Erin Murphy as majority leader, and Senate Republicans chose Sen. Jordan Rasmusson of Fergus Falls as minority leader. The 2027-28 session begins January 12, 2027, with Democrats controlling both chambers.

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Why it matters

These leaders will run the Minnesota House and Senate when lawmakers return, with Democrats in control of both chambers. One House seat, in District 32A, is still headed to a recount.

What to watch

The 2027-28 legislative session begins January 12, 2027.

How each side sees it

Democrats saySpeaker-designate Zack Stephenson says, "We will be laser-focused on making life more affordable for Minnesotans."

Republicans sayMinority Leader-elect Harry Niska says he hopes there will be "a similar ability to at least talk to each other" across party lines.

Sources

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Also in this edition

Published Saturday, November 7, 2026. Spot an error? Email [email protected]. See our corrections log and standards.