Walz to transfer power during anesthesia for colonoscopy

@ap.news Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz sits for an interview with The Associated Press at his office in the state Capitol on Friday, Jan. 6, 2023, in St. Paul, Minn. Walz said his upcoming budget proposal will include tax rebates from the state’s enormous $17.6 billion budget surplus, but conceded that the payments will be smaller that he once hoped. (AP Photo/Trisha Ahmed)

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Gov. Tim Walz will temporarily transfer power to Lt. Gov Peggy Flanagan on Monday while he’s under general anesthesia for a colonoscopy.

The 58-year-old governor sent a letter Sunday to the House speaker and Senate president informing them of his plan, as per state law. The transfer will start at 1 p.m. Monday and will remain in effect until he sends the legislative leaders a written declaration that he is again able to discharge his duties. He’s expected back in the office Tuesday.

Walz says he hopes his procedure serves as encouragement for Minnesotans to seek out preventative care.