(Saint Paul, Minnesota) – Today, Speaker-designate Paul Thissen appointed State Representative John Persell (DFL-Bemidji) to serve as House Majority Whip. As Majority Whip, Persell will assist House Majority Leader Erin Murphy (DFL-St. Paul) with coordinating legislative activity on the House floor among other duties to help lead the House majority caucus. Thissen said Persell adds a valuable perspective to the leadership team and the work needed to effectively govern.
“John is deeply committed to seeing Minnesota succeed - in Greater Minnesota and in every region,” said Thissen. “The perspective John brings to our leadership team will better enable us to move forward in a way that makes Minnesota prosperous throughout the state.”
“John brings a authentic voice to the issues affecting middle class Minnesotans,” said Murphy. “He has been a strong advocate on issues that affect Greater Minnesota families such as property tax relief and improving education and I look forward to working with him to move our state forward.”
"It is a privilege to be appointed Majority Whip, as it allows me to serve Minnesotans in a new and unique way,” said Persell. “I know we face a number of challenges as we head into this legislative session, but I've never been one to back down. With this in mind, I will continue working hard on behalf of the middle class families that reflect the strength of our communities and the greatness of our state."
Along with Persell, the House DFL caucus appointed six assistant majority leaders last week. The assistant leaders represent district throughout the state: State Representative Jason Isaacson (DFL –Shoreview), State Representative Leon Lillie (DFL –North Saint Paul), State Representative Diane Loeffler (DFL –Minneapolis), State Representative Carly Melin (DFL-Hibbing), State Representative Kim Norton (DFL –Rochester), and State Representative John Ward (DFL-Brainerd)
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