The opening of the Minnesota legislative session has been marked by significant political unrest, as House Democrats have staged a boycott, leaving Republicans to move forward without a quorum. In a controversial move, the GOP elected a new speaker despite opposition from the Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) party, which has been accused of staging a walkout to thwart the narrow Republican majority. Tensions escalated when Democrats held a secret swearing-in two days prior to the session, igniting backlash from GOP members who criticized the lack of transparency. As lawmakers navigate these tumultuous waters, leaders from both parties are seeking a power-sharing deal to restore order, but the atmosphere remains charged and uncertain, raising concerns about the legislative agenda and potential gridlock ahead.