Democratic-Farmer-Labor Secretary of State Steve Simon and the House DFL have filed lawsuits to stop Republicans from taking control of the House for the next two years, arguing it’s unconstitutional for them to move forward without Democrats present.

Minnesota Sec. of State Steve Simon is addressing leaders of the Minnesota House of Representatives ahead of what could be a sour start to the session, saying Republicans, with 67 seats, don’t have the necessary number needed in state constitution.

The unprecedented start of the legislative session went on with the usual pomp and formality of years prior. As if the Democratic half of the chamber weren’t empty, and the rules on how to proceed not the source of vehement dispute.