Minneapolis politics, slightly ground down

A Minneapolis politics podcast hosted by four-term Ward 2 city council veterans Cam Gordon and Robin Garwood, with longtime activist Jesse Mortenson

Fiery First Council Meeting Lays Strategy Cards on the Table

January 13, 2026

Council President Payne played his hand: elected a new vice president, returned a version of council majority and council minority leader positions, and enlarged committees. Democratic Socialists have a formal role in leadership. And the Frey camp reacted with open anger. We discuss what this reveals about the theory of change in city hall.

Note: while this episode was being recorded, Renee Nicole Macklin Good was murdered by federal agent Johnathan Ross. We heard the horrific news after we wrapped. Please plug in via the links below, and join us in the streets.

Recorded 1/7/26.

Alert

MN is under threat from federal agents right now. Mill City Hall asks you to plug in and take action:

  • Defend 612 is a new entry-point to local neighborhood organizing
  • Monarca continues to provide trainings for regular folks who want to help, and offers a hotline to report ICE activity: 612-441-2881
  • Donate to UNIDOS which is providing crucial financial support to these efforts

Don't forget to check out:

City Council Meeting Video and Coverage

City Council Votes Reference

Votes

  • Council President
    • Payne 8-5
  • Vice President
    • Osman 7-6
      • Whiting switches from YES (president) to NO (vice-president) after nominating Palmisano
  • Postpone votes on the majority/minority leader position
    • FAILS 6-7
  • Majority leader
    • Chugtai 7-6
  • Minority leader
    • Wonsley: 7-6
  • Budget Committee amendment
    • PASS 11-2
  • Warren to replace Sorenson on Climate/Infra committee
    • FAIL 5-7-1

Committees

Listen to this episode

Download Episode (MP3)