TL/DR –
Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic has announced she will step down from her leadership role to focus on her cancer treatment. She led the 34-member Democratic–Farmer–Labor (DFL) caucus through a historic 2023 session and juggled major surgery and cancer treatment during the same period, with her decision coming as a surprise ten days before the 2024 session begins. Dziedzic, a five-term senator from Minneapolis, was praised by fellow senators for her leadership as the DFL passed a series of progressive policy changes with a one-vote edge over Senate Republicans.
Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Steps Down for Cancer Treatment
Kari Dziedzic, Majority Leader of the Minnesota Senate, plans to step down from leadership to focus on her cancer treatment. Dziedzic garnered praise for managing the 34-member DFL caucus through the historic 2023 session while combating her illness.
Upon learning her cancer had returned, Dziedzic decided to step aside for the benefit of the caucus. The announcement surprised colleagues as she had previously balanced her health challenges with her leadership duties.
Sudden Announcement Shocks Colleagues
Dziedzic, 61, informed senators of her decision during an online meeting and emailed staff and media, leaving many colleagues saddened. Sen. Heather Gustafson praised Dziedzic’s mentorship and leadership, highlighting their shared work ethic and camaraderie.
Under Dziedzic’s leadership, the DFL passed significant progressive policy changes despite a slim majority over Senate Republicans.
Dziedzic’s Legacy
A five-term senator, Dziedzic is a key figure in Minneapolis politics. She is the daughter of the late Walt Dziedzic, a notable City Council member, but unlike her father, she maintains a lower profile. Dziedzic was an unexpected choice for majority leader following the Democrat’s victory in 2022.
She underwent cancer treatment and surgery while leading the Senate remotely in 2023. Despite the challenges, the DFL passed laws on gun safety measures, abortion access, marijuana legalization, restoration of voting rights for felons, and protection for transgender residents.
Who Will Succeed Dziedzic?
Senators, including Assistant Majority Leader Nick Frentz, are preparing for the upcoming session and the task of selecting a new leader. Current leaders such as Frentz and Senate President Bobby Joe Champion, are potential successors.
If chosen, Champion would become the first person of color to lead the Senate majority caucus. Regardless of who succeeds Dziedzic, the goal is a seamless transition.
Tributes to Dziedzic
Capitol leaders have expressed their support for Dziedzic. Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson of East Grand Forks and House Speaker Melissa Hortman, DFL-Brooklyn Park, added their wishes for Dziedzic’s recovery.
Hortman commended Dziedzic’s thoughtful and wise leadership during the most productive legislative session in 50 years and expressed hope for her swift return to full-time legislating.
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