Democrat Xp Lee won a special election Tuesday in House District 34B, the seat formerly held by former DFL leader Melissa Hortman who was assassinated in her Brooklyn Park home, along with her husband Mark, back in June.
Lee, a former Brooklyn Park City Council member, won with over 60% of the vote defeating Republican challenger Ruth Bittner.
“Xp Lee’s victory is proof of the positive momentum Democrats are creating across Minnesota and across the country, and we couldn’t be prouder to stand with him tonight,” said Minnesota DFL Chair Richard Carlbom. “Our party is committed to uplifting those who continue Melissa Hortman’s legacy of public service, leadership, and compassion – Xp Lee’s win is a clear testament to that dedication."
Lee's win brings the Minnesota House back to an even 67-67 tie, with Republican and DFL leaders agreeing to maintain a power-sharing agreement that was reached earlier this year.
“We did our best to make her proud: knocking on doors daily, making phone calls, and texting every neighbor we could,” Lee said in a victory statement.