Democrats Win Key Election

David Gottfried, a Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) candidate, has won the special election for Minnesota House District 40B, which covers parts of Shoreview and Roseville. The race, which saw Gottfried facing off against Republican Paul Wikstrom, an experienced engineer and instructor pilot, was closely watched but ultimately predictable given the district’s strong Democratic lean.

Gottfried’s victory in this special election, as projected by Decision Desk HQ, ensures that the Minnesota House remains deadlocked with a 67-67 split between Republicans and Democrats. This outcome follows a series of events that have led to considerable political drama in the state Capitol.

The seat was vacated after DFL candidate Curtis Johnson won in November but was disqualified when it was revealed he did not meet the residency requirements. Johnson’s disqualification temporarily gave the GOP a 67-66 advantage in the state House. This sparked a chaotic start to the legislative session, with both parties at odds over how to proceed. Republicans, holding the slim majority, pushed to elect a Speaker and conduct business, arguing that a quorum could be reached with 67 members, despite the absence of DFL lawmakers.

However, the Minnesota Supreme Court struck down this interpretation of the state Constitution, and after weeks of gridlock, both parties ultimately reached a power-sharing agreement. As part of the deal, Republican Lisa DeMuth was elected Speaker.

While the Democrats maintain their grip on the district with this latest win, Republicans continue to fight for a fair balance of power in the state House. As Minnesota’s political landscape evolves, the GOP remains committed to restoring fiscal responsibility, enhancing public safety, and prioritizing the interests of hardworking Minnesotans across the state.