Democrats threaten boycott over power-sharing dispute

What they're saying: "If there's no power-sharing agreement, we will not be here," said DFL Leader Melissa Hortman, who accused Republicans of an "illegitimate power grab" given that the chamber could be tied again following a late January special election.

• She argued Republicans won't be able to "turn on the lights," let alone pass bills, without her members helping them hit a quorum in the 134-seat chamber.

The other side: Republicans, who gained an advantage after a judge disqualified an incoming Democrat for not living in his district, have pointed to past examples of the House electing a speaker with just 67 votes.

• They threatened to explore pursuing recalls against Democrats who fail to show up.

Friction point: The call on what constitutes a quorum could come down to DFL Secretary of State Steve Simon, who presides over the first day.

• A spokesperson told Axios he's "consulting with nonpartisan staff and legal counsel" on that question.

What we're watching: House Republicans declined to commit to seating DFL Rep.-elect Brad Tabke, even if a judge rules in his favor in a pending lawsuit over missing ballots.

• Blocking Tabke from office would trigger yet another special election. A win in his Shakopee-based swing district would give Republicans a 68-vote majority for the remainder of the session.