Voters count on their local legislators to work on the kitchen table issues. They expect the promises outlined in campaigns: pragmatism, level-headedness, and collaboration. But an absence of these qualities in the Minnesota legislature, echoing a disturbing national trend of extreme partisanship, has been anything but productive.

According to the New York Times, a 67-67 split in the House had originally resulted in a power-sharing agreement with co-speakers and committee co-chairs. But after a judge ruled that Rep. Curtis Johnson (D-40B) did not meet the residency requirement to serve his district, Republicans gained a temporary majority. Although the House is expected to return to a tie following a special election, Republicans have made an illegitimate power grab by attempting to elect a speaker and go about business as usual despite the absence of a quorum. Additionally, a Republican majority has suggested a refusal to seat Rep. Brad Tabke, a Democrat who officially won reelection despite the loss of 20 absentee ballots cast in his favor.

In response, Democrats have boycotted showing up at the Capitol. After a historic legislative session thanks to a blue trifecta, the Republicans’ attempt to seize a false majority and reverse all recent progress is aggravating. Last year was disappointing for Democrats, showing an increasing rightward national shift. It’s understandable, albeit frustrating, that legislators want to preserve the hard work done last year at the state level. But in terms of the larger picture, a stalemate is the last thing the party needs. A few weeks into office, president Donald Trump is already flexing his executive power in unprecedented and extreme ways. Now more than ever, constituents are depending on their state legislators. Political polarization cannot hinder progress in our own backyard.

It’s time for legislators to deliver on their promise to Minnesotans. When partisanship prevents progress, everyone loses. Rep. Tabke’s win was ruled legitimate, and Republicans have the responsibility to seat him.

Though the special election has been postponed with no set date, Rep. Curtis’ seat will likely remain blue. Legislators must work across the aisle and share power as they initially agreed upon, because the absence of a trifecta cannot embolden Republicans to take more than their fair share. Statewide stability is especially crucial given Trump’s recent efforts to freeze federal funding with the intent of increasing fossil fuel production and attacking protections for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and LGBTQ+ people. Due to the boycott, House lawmakers couldn’t immediately assess how these changes would impact Minnesota. This state cannot afford any more lost time under the new administration. Though it continues to spread across the country, the division in Washington has no place in Minnesota.