Three Democrats Compete for House Seat After Hortman’s Tragic Death

Voters in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, will participate in a crucial primary election on August 12, 2025, to select the Democratic candidate for the House seat formerly held by the late Representative Melissa Hortman. The race features three candidates: Erickson Saye, Xp Lee, and Christian Eriksen, all vying for the nomination in House seat 34B, which encompasses parts of Brooklyn Park, Coon Rapids, and Champlin.

The special election is significant as it is expected that the seat will remain Democratic, following Hortman’s last election win in November 2024, where she secured 63% of the vote. The primary results will determine who will face Republican candidate Ruth Bittner in the upcoming special election scheduled for September 16, 2025.

Impact on Legislative Control

The outcome of this race is particularly important, as it may influence control of the Minnesota House of Representatives. Currently, Republicans hold a narrow temporary majority at 67-66. A Democratic victory would restore a tie at 67-67, whereas a Republican win would extend their majority to 68-66.

This special election is one of three occurring in the Minnesota Legislature at this time. Two Senate seats are also open: one due to the resignation of former Senator Nicole Mitchell and the other following the death of Senator Bruce Anderson. These Senate vacancies will be filled in elections set for November 4, 2025, where Democrats currently maintain a slim majority of 33-32.

Historical Context of Special Elections

The special election to fill Hortman’s seat marks one of six special elections scheduled in Minnesota for 2025, tying the state record set in 1994, according to the Legislative Reference Library. As the political landscape shifts, voters in Brooklyn Park are poised to make a decision that could have lasting implications for the state’s legislative future.

As the primary approaches, all eyes will be on Brooklyn Park, where the Democratic candidates will present their visions to constituents, aiming to honor the legacy of Melissa Hortman and secure their place in Minnesota’s political arena.