Another Candidate Joins House District 34B Race, Following Former Brooklyn Park Council Members Eriksen and Lee

Another Candidate Joins House District 34B Race, Following Former Brooklyn Park Council Members Eriksen and Lee

The race to fill the Minnesota House District 34B seat—left vacant following the tragic assassination of former Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman—continues to heat up. On July 15, Erickson Saye, a prosecutor and former member of Governor Tim Walz’s administration, became the third Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) candidate to announce his campaign.

He joins Christian Eriksen and Xp Lee, both former members of the Brooklyn Park City Council, in what is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched legislative contests in the state.

The Seat and the Stakes

House District 34B encompasses portions of Brooklyn Park, Champlin, and Coon Rapids, and was long held by Melissa Hortman, one of the most influential figures in Minnesota politics. Hortman, who served as Speaker of the House from 2019 to 2023, was fatally shot alongside her husband on June 14, 2025. Her death sent shockwaves through the state and left a significant vacancy in the DFL-controlled House.

With the House currently split 66–67, the District 34B special election could determine the balance of power heading into the 2026 legislative session.

Governor Walz has called for a special primary on August 12, if needed, with the general election set for September 16. Candidates have until 5 p.m. on July 22 to file for the seat.

Meet the Candidates

Christian Eriksen

Eriksen has served on the Brooklyn Park City Council since 2022 and was one of the first to step into the race following Hortman’s death. Known for his focus on neighborhood cohesion, local economic growth, and accessibility in government, Eriksen says he wants to ensure the district’s voice remains strong in St. Paul.

Xp Lee

A former city council member and public health advocate, Lee works in the Minnesota Department of Health. A refugee from Laos and a Hmong community leader, he is campaigning on a platform of health equity, affordable housing, and inclusive governance. His background includes experience in labor organizing and grassroots policy development.

Erickson Saye

Saye brings a background in both prosecution and public policy, having served in the Governor’s Office and as a state prosecutor. His campaign emphasizes public safety, justice reform, and a commitment to responsive leadership. Supporters say his legal expertise positions him well to address concerns about crime and community accountability.

What Happens Next?

• The filing deadline is July 22. If more than two DFL candidates file, a primary will be held on August 12.
• The special general election will take place on September 16.
• No Republican candidate has yet formally announced, though filings remain open.

All three announced DFL candidates are framing their campaigns around the legacy of Melissa Hortman, whose decades-long service and powerful leadership helped shape progressive policy in Minnesota.

"Whoever wins this seat will carry not just legislative responsibility," one supporter said, "but the emotional weight of a district still mourning one of its most respected leaders."

MinneapoliMedia