Minnesota Senate leader to step down from post, citing return of cancer

• "As we prepare for the next session, I decided it is in the best interest of the caucus for me to step down as Majority Leader after our caucus has selected a new leader," she said.

Catch up fast: Dziedzic, a veteran legislator and the daughter of former Minneapolis Council Member Walt Dziedzic, was elected caucus leader after Democrats captured a majority in the November 2022 elections.

• In mid-March of last year, just months into her tenure, she announced that she had undergone surgery after receiving a cancer diagnosis. She later revealed that several internal organs were removed during the procedure.
• She continued to lead the caucus during her recovery, and returned to the Senate floor in May for the final weeks of the session.

Between the lines: Dziedzic was credited with uniting her caucus to get a number of high-priority bills for the DFL trifecta through the Senate, where majority Democrats had just one vote to spare.

• In her statement, she called it an "honor to be part of that transformational 2023 session" as leader.

What she's saying: She also urged the public to prioritize doctor's visits and preventative care.

• "Regular check-ups are key to early detection... Encourage your friends and family to get their wellness checkups," she said. " It can save a life.

What's next: The 2024 session begins Feb. 12. A date for a leadership vote has not been announced.