With the session gavel happening in just a few weeks, Minnesotans will once again be focused on the State Capitol. The start of the session marks a critical moment for policymakers, stakeholders, and public affairs professionals alike, as priorities begin to take shape and the policy groundwork for the year is laid.
The early weeks of session are often quieter in terms of floor action, but they are among the most important. For those engaged in public affairs, this period offers a valuable opportunity to engage early, before timelines accelerate. That means connecting constituent voices to lawmakers, getting your issue in front of reporters, and activating a coalition to show momentum for your priorities.
This year’s opening day will also be marked by a noticeable absence at the Capitol, former Speaker and longtime House leader Representative Melissa Hortman who was tragically murdered this summer in an act of politically motivated violence. For many who work in and around the Legislature, her absence is felt not just procedurally, but institutionally. Over years of leadership, Rep. Hortman played a central role in shaping the House agenda and guiding the tone of debate and negotiations.
What to Expect in 2026 in Minnesota
When session kicks off in February, there will be no shortage of issues competing for attention. The economy, workforce availability, infrastructure investment, healthcare affordability, energy policy, and the rising cost of living are all expected to feature prominently. But with 2026 being an election year and a number of members running for higher offices, this will likely be a tough year for big, bipartisan agreements to come together.Recent headlines underscore just how politically charged this session is likely to be. The Governor’s press conference this week on gun safety signaled a clear decision to lean into that issue early and forcefully, elevating it as both a policy priority and a defining contrast heading into an election year. It also sets the stage for legislative debates that may be more about positioning and message-setting than immediate compromise.
At the same time, the Walz Administration and DFL leaders continue to grapple with how to address ongoing concerns around fraud and oversight across several state programs. While there is broad agreement that accountability and public trust are critical, there is far less consensus on the path forward. That tension–between advancing policy priorities and responding to public skepticism–will likely shape both legislative hearings and public messaging throughout the session.
All of this is unfolding as the political landscape for 2026 comes into sharper focus. With one of the Governor’s potential competitors being the current Speaker of the House, Lisa Demuth, it is increasingly clear that both parties are beginning to draw lines around what they want voters to see as the defining issues of the next election. That dynamic makes this session less about sweeping legislative accomplishments and more about framing debates, testing ideas, and staking out positions.
Why Engaging in 2026 is Minnesota is Critical
For businesses, industries, non-profits and associations, this environment means close attention to not just what passes, but what is debated, emphasized, and left unresolved. Many of the policies elevated this year–whether on public safety, government accountability, or economic pressures–may not reach final resolution until 2027, but the narratives formed now will shape that next budget session and the political context surrounding it. Doing work in 2026 will play dividends in the next budget year and make sure your issue is top of mind for lawmakers and the public.
-Kayla Christensen, Public Affairs Director