Demuth returns to Capitol for new session

ST. PAUL – Minnesota’s 2026 legislative session began Tuesday and House Speaker Rep. Lisa Demuth, R-Cold Spring, said it’s good to be back at the Capitol working for District 13A residents with crucial issues on tap for the coming months.

First, legislators from both chambers came together in the House on opening day to memorialize Speaker Emerita Rep. Melissa Hortman, DFL-Brooklyn Park, her husband, Mark, and their dog, Gilbert, all of whom were slain last June. Members also welcomed Sen. John Hoffman, DFL-Champlin, back to the Capitol after he suffered serious injuries in a separate attack the same night as the Hortmans.

On official business, Demuth said much of the focus in 2026 will remain the same as last year, when House Republicans sought to restore balance in St. Paul after two years of one-party control.

“Last session, House Republicans worked extremely hard to make life better for Minnesotans and we’re back this session to build on those wins,” Demuth said. “Our priorities this year are the same as last year. We’re here to stop the fraud. We want to make Minnesota affordable, safe and competitive. We’re looking to reduce mandates and raise standards in education. And, through it all, we want to make sure Minnesota tax dollars help the Minnesotans they are meant to help.”

Demuth said it is especially important to crack down on fraud that has run rampant in Minnesota, causing what some have referred to as an “industrial scale” problem. Estimates say $9 billion may have been stolen from taxpayers, although Demuth said the true total may never be known.

“Minnesotans are generous and genuinely want to help folks who are struggling but also don’t want to be ripped off because of lax leadership at the state,” Demuth said. “The Legislature needs to pass a practical, common-sense package of fraud prevention and accountability reforms this year. Look for a renewed push on legislation this year to create a new Office of the Inspector General, operating as an independent entity with law enforcement authority. That bill passed the Senate by a whopping margin of 60-7 before House Democrats blocked it late last session. House Republicans also are working on the Fraud isn’t Free Act and Medicaid fraud risk reviews, among other proposals.”

Demuth said she welcomes correspondence throughout the session and encourages District 13A residents to call (651) 296-4373 or email rep.lisa.demuth@house.mn.gov to get in touch.