Keith Ellison’s son will continue receiving a six-figure salary as a Minneapolis councilmember while participating in a fellowship at Harvard.

Minneapolis Councilman Faces Criticism Over Fellowship Pay

Minneapolis City Councilman Jeremiah Ellison, despite taking on a full-time fellowship at Harvard University, will still earn a six-figure salary. The amount is around $110,000 from his role on the council, and the fellowship is also a paid position.

His decision has drawn ire from some of his colleagues. One councillor expressed disappointment, stating, “I hope my colleagues don’t allow this. It’s concerning for North Minneapolis.”

Another council member emphasized the lack of representation for North Minneapolis if Ellison does not attend committee meetings regularly. “If he’s not there, then there’s really no voice for us,” she pointed out.

To accommodate his responsibilities, Ellison plans to return to Minneapolis bi-monthly for council meetings and attend various committee gatherings, as reported.

Council regulations stipulate that members must be physically present to participate and vote in meetings. This has raised questions about whether other staff members receive similar allowances for paid leave.

Councilwoman Linea Palmisano noted this uncertainty, commenting, “I wonder if others hold that privilege,” suggesting it might not be standard practice.

Ellison’s office hasn’t provided immediate comments regarding the situation. Over recent years, he has been recognized for his left-leaning influence in Minneapolis politics. In 2020, he made headlines by supporting ANTIFA and pledging to “demolish” the Minneapolis Police Station.