Hello Friends, 

This week, many of us will gather around the table to give thanks and celebrate with family and friends. I want to thank you for the honor of representing Shakopee in the Minnesota House of Representatives. This year has been filled with incredible highs and lows, but your support and dedication to our community is really what makes this work so special.

As we mark a holiday commemorating a feast between Native peoples and immigrants, I want to lift up the words of my colleagues in the People of Color and Indigenous Caucus, who responded to the hateful and divisive rhetoric spread by President Trump last week against our Somali neighbors:

This comes just days after President Trump threatened to hang Democratic members of Congress. In Minnesota, we don’t need reminders of how violent words can lead to violent actions, with the assassination of the Hortmans and the shooting of the Hoffmans still so fresh in our minds. We need more people, especially Republican lawmakers, calling out these dangerous words.

But it’s just not harmful words coming out of the White House. The policies of President Trump and Congressional Republicans have put a weight on the shoulders of working families in Minnesota. The cost of new budget cuts and initiatives have trickled down to our counties, resulting in higher property taxes for many Minnesotans. 

There are existing state programs that can help lessen the blow of rising property taxes. While many are familiar with property tax refunds, Minnesota also has a deferral program for senior citizens, and a market value exclusion for properties classified as a homestead. You can find more programs and resources at the Minnesota Department of Revenue’s webpage. 

The 2026 Legislative Session begins in February, and whether it’s addressing gun violence or rising property taxes, the list of issues to take on is growing. Now is a perfect time to touch base on the issues that matter most to you and your family - maybe you’ll even think of some during your turkey dinner. 

Always feel free to reach out. I look forward to hearing from you!

Wishing you and yours a peaceful and safe Thanksgiving!

Brad Tabke, State Representative | [email protected]

Tenzin Tsangyang, Legislative Assistant | [email protected]