[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has sent notice ending the temporary transfer of power to Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan following surgery on his left knee to fix a medial meniscus tear – an injury common for runners. In anticipation of the surgery, the Governor initiated the temporary transfer of power to the Lieutenant Governor beginning at 12:30pm this afternoon and lasting for the duration of general anesthesia in accordance with Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 4.06(c).

“Thank you to all the medical professionals who contributed to a quick and successful procedure that will allow me to start running again,” said Governor Walz. “And thank you to Lieutenant Governor Flanagan for holding down the fort at the Capitol today. I look forward to getting back in the office on Monday after a weekend of recuperation.”

Governor Walz has sent written notice to House Speaker Melissa Hortman and President of the Senate Jeremy Miller ending the temporary transfer of power. The Governor’s letter to Speaker Hortman and President of the Senate Miller is attached, and the text is available below.

Dear President Miller and Speaker Hortman:

    On Monday, June 17, 2019, I provided to you a letter declaring my temporary inability to discharge the powers and duties of the Office of Governor due to my undergoing surgery under general anesthetic. Under Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 4.06(c), the powers and duties of the Office of Governor were transferred to Lieutenant Governor Flanagan during my surgery. My surgery is complete, and I am able to again discharge the powers and duties of the office of governor.

    Accordingly, as provided in Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 4.06(c), I declare that no inability exists, I am again able to discharge the powers and duties of the Office of Governor, and I am resuming the powers and duties of the Office of Governor effectively immediately.

Sincerely,

 Governor Tim Walz