We're never sure about material from an opponent in a political campaign, but a change in the New House Republican Caucus Facebook page banner suggests that information tweeted by former state representative Brad Tabke is accurate. Apparently, Erik Mortensen is no longer a member of the New House Republican Caucus.
Mortensen defeated Tabke last November in a three candidate race graced by a cannabis party member.
Above, we've posted a screenshot of the image at the top of that page. Immediately below, what we saw this morning on that page:
[UPDATE 5/18, 1:43 p.m.] We just received this screenshot of the letter to Speaker Melissa Hortman from the NHRC announcing Mortensen's departure:
[end update]
[Update: Mary LaHammer at TPT tweeted that Representative Mortensen isn't welcome in the old Minnesota Republican Caucus either:
Minority Leader Daudt confirms that Rep. Mortensen is not welcome in the Republican House Caucus. https://t.co/Cc7jfjRCF5
— Mary Lahammer (@mlahammer) May 18, 2021
[end update]
[Another update] On Twitter, a Mort watchdog shared Action4Liberty's take on the explusion:
i was kicked out and all republicans are staying as far away from me as possible.
— Sideshow Mort (@SideshowMort) May 18, 2021
the reason why has nothing to do with me calling some of them 'rhinos'
worst cover up ever
cc: @jpkolb @sallyjos @Lindsey_Port @RepMortensen @Jamiemlong @jbeckerfinn https://t.co/PVjyPbZwzt
Last night Tabke tweeted:
The Tabke for Minnesota campaign has learned today that House District 55A Representative Erik Mortensen has been ousted from the New House Republican Caucus.
— Brad Tabke (@BradTabke) May 18, 2021
This is extremely unfortunate and concerning news for the residents and businesses of Shakopee.
Rep Mortensen will be unable to hire staff to support his constituents; he will have no researchers to help build solid legislation for Shakopee; and most importantly, he will be further relegated to the back bench unable to collaborate and get any work done for our Community.
— Brad Tabke (@BradTabke) May 18, 2021
I know from first-hand experience that we need strong leadership working together for Shakopee to meet our community’s needs now and into the future. Our community deserves a voice at the capital that works for all of us. #mnleg
— Brad Tabke (@BradTabke) May 18, 2021
But then there ws also the Dorr Brothers' Minnesota Gun Rights video named St Paul Swamp Turning on the ONLY Fighter for the Grassroots?!?
Essentially, they talk about a rumor that Erik Mortensen is getting kicked out the New House Republican Caucus.
[Update] We had contacted Representative Mortensen last night about the Dorr brothers' video but received no response back. Should he reply, we'll post it here--and any response we see in traditional or social media. [end update]
Things have not always been so tense. Back in early January, the New House Republican Caucus posted a press release about their new member (link missing):
– Yesterday, the 92nd legislative session of the Minnesota House of Representatives began. Representatives were sworn in at noon. Among them was Rep. Erik Mortensen, who is the newest member of the New House Republican Caucus.
“I am very excited to join the Minnesota House of Representatives and fight for the people of my district,” said Rep. Erik Mortensen (Republican-Shakopee). “Above all, I want to bring transparency to government, and liberty to the people. These are ideals that define the New House Republican Caucus. As such, I am thrilled to be a member of this caucus.”
Rep. Mortensen represents District 55A in the Minnesota House of Representatives. The district includes Shakopee, Jackson Township, and Louisville Township.
“Rep. Mortensen will be a terrific addition to our caucus,” said Rep. Steve Drazkowski (Republican-Mazeppa). “Legislators that are quick to listen, eager to serve, and unafraid to face challenges are exactly what this government needs. Rep. Mortensen embodies all of these qualities, and I am looking forward to serving alongside him in the Minnesota House of Representatives.”
That worked out well.
Related posts:
- Mortensen warned Shakopee about busloads of paid protesters with riot gear coming to MN
- Mort gave followers colleague's personal phone number, but no bill number to call about
- [VIDEO] MN Reformer: Newbie Erik Mortensen jokes about getting HR complaint on first day
- Letter: MN Attorney General Keith Ellison declines invitation to Erik Mortensen's party
- Newest New House Republican to hold back yard party in Shakopee, invites Walz and Ellison
- Facebook fundraising: Jeremy Munson cashes in on "Give to the Max Day" for political campaign
- MAGASOTA's surprising speakers list for Northfield Trump Rally Minnesota 2020 Saturday
- MN55A: Mortensen deletes fake news about Tabke's views after area hunter calls him out
Photo: Representative Erik Mortensen, Shakopee-R.
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