Minneapolis City Council clashes over member Jeremiah Ellisons absences

The Minneapolis City Council voted 7-5 to replace Council Member Jeremiah Ellison on two committees due to his absences while attending a Harvard fellowship. The decision raised questions about representation for constituents in Ward 5, where Ellison has faced scrutiny for missing meetings. Council Member LaTrisha Vetaw argued for her appointment to maintain North Side representation, but the council opted for other changes. Ellison, who earns nearly $110,000 annually, plans to attend full council meetings every other week, although he has missed committee meetings. The council's progressive faction initially supported leaving his seat vacant, highlighting internal divisions.

Council Member Andrea Jenkins raised ethical concerns about Ellison collecting a paycheck from multiple sources during his fellowship. Ellison's term ends this year, and he is not running for re-election, intensifying the debate over his representation. The council's actions signal ongoing tensions regarding attendance and representation in local governance.