Minnesota’s House of Representatives has been tested in the last year by a political tie, a lawmaker’s assassination and now consideration of a special session to respond to high-profile acts of violence.

In their first joint interview, MPR News politics editor Brian Bakst speaks with Republican Speaker Lisa Demuth and new DFL Leader Zack Stephenson about their hopes and expectations for a special session. Gov. Tim Walz might call one even if lawmakers lack a prior agreement on what gets considered and possibly brought to votes.

Their conversation also explores how the two will work together in 2026, an election year where nothing is required of lawmakers in their February-to-May session.

Later, author Lori Sturdevant talks about her new book on Martin Sabo, a former Minnesota House speaker and venerable congressman whose career spanned almost five full decades.

Guests:

• Republican Speaker of the Minnesota House Lisa Demuth
• DFL Caucus Leader Rep. Zack Stephenson
• Lori Sturdevant, author of “Martin Sabo: The Making of the Modern Legislature”

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Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.