EAST GULL LAKE, Minn. — Governor Tim Walz’s decision to require state employees to inoculate against Covid or submit too weekly testing is “divisive and unproductive,” said Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka, R-East Gull Lake. As has been his been his habit throughout the pandemic, Gazelka remained critical of requiring anti-Covid initiatives by Walz, a Democrat. Gazelka emphasized he isn’t an anti-vaxer. “Vaccines are widely available for those who want them and are incredibly effective at preventing the spread and impact of Covid.” The issue, as Gazelka sees it, is governmental mandates.
Legislature rules
The Republican-controlled Minnesota Senate allows its staff and members work remotely and to choose whether to wear masks or get vaccinated. Aso f this week, the Democratic-controlled House has reinstuted its mask mandate. The Legislature, as an independent branch of government, doesn’t need to heed the governor’s mandate, which applies only to state employees in the executive branch.
Gazelka. In Legislature since 2005. Insurance agent from north-central Minnesota’s Crow Wing County. Degree from Oral Roberts University.