Primary For Melissa Hortman’s Minnesota House Seat Set For Tuesday August 12

Primary For Melissa Hortman’s Minnesota House Seat Set For Tuesday August 12

Voters to choose Democratic nominee ahead of special election in September

By MinneapoliMedia Staff
BROOKLYN PARK, Minn. — August 9, 2025

Minnesota voters in House District 34B will head to the polls Tuesday, August 12, to decide the Democratic nominee in a special election primary to fill the seat once held by Representative Melissa Hortman. The special election to fill the vacancy is scheduled for Tuesday, September 16.

The district, encompassing parts of Brooklyn Park, Coon Rapids, and Champlin across Anoka and Hennepin counties, leans strongly Democratic and is now preparing for a pivotal race following the tragic loss of Rep. Hortman and her husband, who were fatally shot in their Brooklyn Park home this past June.

The suspect has pleaded not guilty in federal court and is currently facing multiple charges.

Candidates in the Democratic Primary

Three Democratic candidates are competing for the nomination in the Aug. 12 primary:

Erickson Saye

Hennepin County prosecutor, Saye highlights his extensive experience in civic engagement and public service. He has worked with the DFL party to increase voter turnout and participated in Governor Tim Walz’s administration to promote statewide outreach. Saye aims to continue delivering for the community with a focus on justice and accountability.

Xp Lee

A former Brooklyn Park City Council member and health equity leader at the Minnesota Department of Health, Lee draws on his background as a refugee, union member, and public servant. He pledges bold and compassionate leadership focused on racial and economic equity, youth opportunities, small business support, and public safety. Lee honors Hortman as both a powerful legislator and a neighbor whose legacy inspires his run.

Christian Eriksen

A Brooklyn Park City Council Member representing the city’s east district, Eriksen was the first to announce his candidacy. He expressed deep respect for Hortman’s legacy and emphasized his commitment to equity, inclusion, and social progress as core values guiding his campaign. Eriksen also brings experience as former chair of Brooklyn Park’s Human Rights Commission.

Republican Candidate

On the GOP side, Ruth Bittner is the sole candidate in the race. Though new to politics, Bittner brings a background as a business owner, realtor, and former food scientist. Her campaign centers on restoring public trust in government, fiscal responsibility, public safety, and strengthening education by supporting teachers and parents. Bittner pays tribute to Hortman’s dedication and service while emphasizing her readiness to face the district’s challenges.

How to Participate in the Election

Absentee voting is underway, and officials encourage voters to submit their ballots at designated in-person locations to ensure timely processing. Early voting sites for Anoka County residents include the Anoka County Government Center and Coon Rapids City Hall. Hennepin County voters can visit the Hennepin County Government Center, Brooklyn Park City Hall, or Champlin City Hall.

Early voting hours:

• Saturday, Aug. 9: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Monday, Aug. 11: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Primary Day voting hours

• Tuesday, August 12: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Visit mnvotes.org for all voter information.

For full voting details and polling locations, residents can visit the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.

The special election on Sept. 16 will determine who will serve out the remainder of Hortman’s term.

Remembering Rep. Melissa Hortman

The vacancy in House District 34B comes amid a somber backdrop following the June shootings that claimed the lives of Rep. Hortman and her husband in their Brooklyn Park home. The incident shook the community and state alike, coming shortly after the June 14 shooting of Senator John Hoffman and his wife, who survived.

The ongoing legal proceedings continue to unfold as the community prepares to move forward through the upcoming election.

MinneapoliMedia will continue to provide comprehensive coverage of this special election and its candidates as the race unfolds. Stay connected with us for updates and in-depth analysis.

MinneapoliMedia