Persell named House Majority Whip

BEMIDJI – State Rep. John Persell, DFL-Bemidji, was named House Majority Whip Friday.

In that role, Persell will help House Majority Leader Erin Murphy, DFL-St. Paul in leading the House majority caucus.

“John is deeply committed to seeing Minnesota succeed – in Greater Minnesota and in every region,” said House Speaker Paul Thissen, DFL-Minneapolis, in a statement. “The perspective John brings to our leadership team will better enable us to move forward in a way that makes Minnesota prosperous throughout the state.”

Persell was first elected in 2008 and defeated fellow incumbent Larry Howes, R-Walker, in this November’s election. The two were paired up in the same district due to redistricting.

“It is a privilege to be appointed Majority Whip, as it allows me to serve Minnesotans in a new and unique way,” said Persell in a statement. “I know we face a number of challenges as we head into this legislative session, but I've never been one to back down.

“With this in mind, I will continue working hard on behalf of the middle class families that reflect the strength of our communities and the greatness of our state.”

Last week, the DFL announced Persell would be the vice chair for the Jobs and Economic Development finance and policy committee during the 2013 legislative session and a member of the four other committees:

- Environment and Natural Resources policy

- Environment, Natural Resources, and Agriculture finance

- Rules and Legislative Administration

- State Government Finance and Veterans Affairs