COLD SPRING, Munn. — The speaker of the Minnesota House, Lisa Demuth, will have stern words for two legislators, both Republicans when the Legislature convenes after the holiday weekend. Her conecrn: That Elliott Engen and Walter Hudson skipped out on a committee meeting for an extended lunch with booze and later an evening owithmore boozing. Said Demuth, who’s also a Republican:
“The decisions made in this incident were unacceptable and fall short of the expectations I have for conduct of legislators.”
In Coon Rapids, the Democrats’ House leader, Zack Stephenson, called the situation a serious matter and deserving immediate attention:
“I am troubled to learn that Representative Engen and Representative Hudson left committee early to go drinking, returned and voted on consequential legislation on the House floor, and then continued to drink until Representatuve Engen was arrested for driving under the influence.”
Engen, age 27, issued his own statement:
“Poor choices were made. I’m grateful no one was hurt, and appreciate the response of the White Bear Lake Police Department.”
For his part, Hudson, age 42, has maintained public silence on the issue but still keeping up his online monologues public issues.
Hudson and Engen. Buddies from way back. Here at a convention of the right-wing political organization Turning Point.
Demuth. Displeased GOP HOuse speaker.
Stephenson. Democrat House leader admonishes pair. Wants answers..
Earlier: Legislators, both drinking at late lunch, go AWOL
Earlier: Legislators, both drinking at late lunch, go AWOL
Earlier: Earlier: Two legislators caught after night out