Centrist Democrats Form 'Blue Dog Coalition' In MN Senate

ST. PAUL, MN — A group of Minnesota Democratic state senators announced Thursday their formation of the "Blue Dog Coalition" and pledged to work with Republicans and members of their own party to pass "pragmatic, reasonable, and balanced policies."

The Democratic lawmakers represent regions of the state ranging from moderate to conservative. The group expressed their readiness to shape upcoming policy and budget discussions, as the Minnesota State House is split 67-67 and Democrats hold a slim majority in the Senate by just one seat.

"Minnesotans want legislators who hear them, who work to improve their daily lives, who are careful with their tax dollars, and who collaborate to solve problems," said Sen. Matt Klein and Sen. Nick Frentz. "The Blue Dog Coalition formed to pursue a practical, bipartisan path forward for all Minnesotans."

The Mission Statement of the Senate Blue Dog Coalition is:

The Minnesota Senate Blue Dog Coalition stands for pragmatic, reasonable, and balanced policies that reflect the values of all Minnesotans. We are committed to problem-solving, collaboration, and the pursuit of fiscally responsible policies that support working families, small businesses, and communities in every corner of our state. We seek to bridge divides and bring bipartisan solutions that serve all Minnesotans, regardless of political affiliation.

The Senate Blue Dog Coalition includes:

• Senator Matt Klein (DFL-Mendota Heights)
• Senator Nick Frentz (DFL-North Mankato)
• Senator Judy Seeberger (DFL-Afton)
• Senator Grant Hauschild (DFL-Hermantown)
• Senator Ann Rest (DFL-New Hope)
• Senator Rob Kupec (DFL-Moorhead)
• Senator Aric Putnam (DFL-St. Cloud)
• Senator John Hoffman (DFL-Champlin)

All Minnesota state senators will next run for re-election in 2026. Senate elections are held every four years, with the most recent contest in 2022, when Democrats secured a trifecta in state government.