Minnesota Lawmakers Discuss Civility and Collaboration for 2026 Session

State Rep. Sandra Feist and State Sen. Zach Duckworth address tough issues like immigration, fraud, and gun violence.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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On Monday at 8 p.m., MPR News host Catharine Richert will talk with State Rep. Sandra Feist, a DFL-New Brighton legislator, and State Sen. Zach Duckworth, a Republican from Lakeville, about fostering civility and collaboration at the Minnesota State Capitol during the 2026 legislative session. The discussion will focus on how lawmakers can tackle divisive issues like immigration, fraud, and gun violence without resorting to partisan rhetoric.

Why it matters

As Minnesota's legislature faces a range of challenging topics in 2026, there is a growing call for bipartisanship and civil discourse to find workable solutions. This conversation aims to model how lawmakers from different parties can come together productively, even on contentious subjects.

The details

Rep. Feist and Sen. Duckworth will discuss strategies for maintaining a respectful tone and finding common ground, despite ideological differences. The lawmakers will also address concerns about affordability and the state's economic climate as they prepare for the upcoming session.

  • The MPR News discussion will air on Monday, February 24, 2026 at 8 p.m.

The players

Sandra Feist

A Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) state representative from New Brighton, Minnesota.

Zach Duckworth

A Republican state senator from Lakeville, Minnesota.

Catharine Richert

The host of the MPR News program where the discussion will take place.

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The takeaway

This conversation between a Democratic and Republican legislator demonstrates that even on divisive issues, lawmakers can engage in respectful dialogue and seek collaborative solutions if they prioritize civility and a shared commitment to serving their constituents.