MN lege: DFL pickup opportunities Districts 1-20
I choose these based on recent election results (2024 House here, 2022 Senate here). I do try to sort of intuitively account for what a deeply and sadly bizarre year 2024 was.
HD2A: Our candidate is Reed Olson.
Reed is a small business owner and the director of two emergency homeless shelters in Bemidji. As a two-term Beltrami County Commissioner, he established a track record as a problem solver, bridge-builder, and skilled collaborator who doesn’t wait to help out in a crisis.
He has passed measures to help address the housing crisis, fund the new Bemidji Veterans Home, and support small businesses struggling in the pandemic.
If you’ve never heard of Rep. Bidal Duran (R-Bemidji) – I hadn’t – it’s because he’s a first-termer. And that’s one too many.
HD3A: Aaron Schweiger is the DFLer.
Throughout my life I have witnessed the power of public service, hard work, and sacrifice. I have had the honor and privilege of working alongside amazing leaders like Congressman James Oberstar and Senator Amy Klobuchar, who taught me that true leadership is about listening to the voices of those we serve with compassion and delivering results that make a meaningful impact in their lives. I believe we can build a brighter future together—where our children can dream big and achieve even bigger.
Rep.Natalie Zeleznikar (R-Fredenberg Township) is finishing up her second term. You’d think that living where she does she’d be more environmentally conscious. But you know how these lockstep wingnuts are.
SD7: Kim McLaughlin is our candidate.
A first-generation college graduate, I’m now a business manager and former auditor with the Minnesota State Colleges and University system.
I’m humbled to be a local elected official, serving in my 10th year on the Hibbing School Board.
My career and public service have been all about working to make government work for the people.
I’m running to be a strong voice for the Northland in St. Paul.
Sen Rob Farnsworth (R-Hibbing) is an undistinguished first-termer.
HD11A: Chris Swanson is the DFLer.
As a high school social studies teacher, community and union leader, and city councilor, Chris has spent much of his life serving the people of our area. He knows what matters most to our communities: respectful dialogue, problem solving, and making sure no one is left behind.
If not for the fact that Trump got into the White House twice I’d be a little startled that Rep. Jeff Dotseth (R-Kettle River) is still in the MN House.
HD18A: Leah Hanson is our candidate.
Leah was raised on a hobby farm near Kasota. She grew up participating in Girl Scouts, 4-H, and a youth group at her church. These activities ingrained in her the value of service to her community. She is a graduate of St. Peter High School and MSU, Mankato. After getting her degree, she settled in North Mankato, where she has lived for the past 11 years. During this time, she has continued to serve her community as a counselor and social worker
After becoming disabled in a car accident when at age 23, she learned to navigate difficult to impossible systems to meet her needs. At times, she had to rely the generosity of her friends, family, and community when she needed extra support. She is here because of the community care that she has invested in since her youth.
Rep. Erica Schwartz (R-Nicollet) is yet another generic GOPer. Including the fact that like the rest she’s careful to avoid any mention of Dear Leader on her website.
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