Updated on Thursday at 11:18 a.m.
A powerful Minnesota union known for its DFL alliances, Education Minnesota, is trying to mend fences with its Republican members as new GOP majorities get to work at the Capitol.
The teacher's union held a meeting at their headquarters earlier this month specifically for their self-identified Republican members. An invitation noted that "It's more important than ever for our Republican members to start building relationships with their legislators."
Education Minnesota contributes major sums almost exclusively to DFL candidates during election seasons and has wielded significant power at the Capitol over the years under DFL majorities.
About 35 union members showed up at the meeting, where they learned about Education Minnesota's legislative agenda and met the lobbying staff. Some members aired grievances about the "hostile environment" Republicans encounter at their union locals, according to attendee Andy Unseth, a teacher in Northfield.
Unseth, a 10-year member of the union, said it was the first time Education Minnesota had invited him to a Republican-only event.
"I'm glad they're doing it," Unseth said. "But at the same time, I really wish we could get out of the political business and get down to the business of lobbying and focus on our key interests."
Union president Tom Dooher, who was not at the gathering, said they have held regular meetings with Republican members in the past, but this month's was much larger and more formalized.
