Decise Desk Hq reports that Democratic candidate XP Lee is expected to secure victory in a special election.
Lee, a health equity analyst, triumphed over Republican candidate Ruth Bitner in House District 34b, which includes sections of Hennepin and Anoka counties. The district appears to lean Democratic.
Ken Martin, chair of the Democratic National Committee and former leader of Minnesota State Democrats, expressed joy over Lee’s win, stating, “We’ve had a front-row seat to Lee’s leadership during his time as a Brooklyn Park trustee.”
Before this election, House Republicans held a narrow edge at 67-66. With Lee’s win, control of the lower chamber shifts to a 67-67 tie.
Martin remarked, “This victory for Rep. XP Lee will return balance to Minnesota and honor the legacy of speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, who, unfortunately, hasn’t received the recognition she deserves from local Democrats. The best way to pay tribute to her is by creating opportunities for working families to thrive. That’s exactly what the DFL strategists can achieve by empowering Lee’s leadership. The DLCC is dedicated to backing Minnesota Democrats now and in the 2026 elections for all 134 home districts.”
Tragically, Hortman and her husband were murdered in their home in mid-June, while another lawmaker and his wife were also injured in separate shooting incidents that same day.
The 58-year-old accused of killing the former speaker and wounding the other couple has been charged with multiple counts, including state and federal murder.
The shootings sent shockwaves throughout the nation, coming less than a year after several assassination attempts targeting President Trump during his campaign.
This special election to fill Hortman’s seat follows closely on the heels of another tragic incident in Utah, where conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at a university event.
Concerns are rising regarding the increasing threats and violence directed at lawmakers and notable figures amidst a broader context of political unrest across the country.
