Democratic Victory Restores Minnesota House Balance Following Tragedy
In a poignant political development, Democratic nominee Xp Lee has secured victory in the special election for the Minnesota House seat previously held by Melissa Hortman, the former Democratic House Speaker whose life was tragically cut short in June. Lee defeated Republican candidate Ruth Bittner in the suburban Minneapolis district, bringing the Minnesota House back to an even split with 67 seats held by each party. This electoral outcome restores the power-sharing arrangement between Democrats and Republicans that had been established after Democrats lost their majority in the 2024 elections, providing a measure of political stability following months of turmoil.
The special election took place against a backdrop of shocking political violence that has shaken Minnesota and the nation. Hortman and her husband Mark were killed in what prosecutors have described as a politically motivated assassination, allegedly carried out by Vance Boelter who impersonated a police officer during the attack. The same suspect is charged with shooting and wounding state Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette at their nearby home. This tragedy was followed by another act of violence when a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis resulted in the deaths of two young children and injuries to 21 others, further traumatizing the state community. The election occurred just one week after the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, which reignited national attention on Hortman’s murder.
For Xp Lee, who was born in a refugee camp in Thailand after his family fled the Vietnam War, this campaign represented more than just political ambition. “I wouldn’t be running if it wasn’t for the murder of Melissa Hortman,” Lee told the Associated Press before the election, highlighting how the tragedy had motivated his candidacy. “I am very conscious of political and gun violence. So, I want to help our community heal.” His personal story as a refugee and his commitment to continuing Hortman’s legacy resonated with voters in the blue-leaning district who were seeking both representation and healing in the wake of violence that has shaken their community to its core.
The Republican candidate, Ruth Bittner, a real estate agent, acknowledged the unique qualities of her predecessor during the campaign, stating that Hortman “was a very unique individual. We will not be trying to replace her.” This recognition of Hortman’s distinct contribution to Minnesota politics transcended partisan lines, reflecting how her sudden and violent death affected Minnesotans across the political spectrum. The special election thus became not only about determining partisan control of the state legislature but also about honoring Hortman’s memory and addressing the wound left by her absence in the political landscape.
This election occurs as Minnesota continues to process multiple traumatic events that have raised concerns about political violence and public safety. The assassination of political figures like Hortman and the attempted murder of Senator Hoffman represent an alarming trend that challenges the foundations of democratic discourse. Meanwhile, the school shooting at Annunciation Catholic School has further compounded the sense of vulnerability felt by many Minnesotans. Against this backdrop, Lee’s election campaign focused not just on policy positions but on the fundamental need for community healing and the protection of civic institutions from the threat of political violence.
The restoration of the power-sharing agreement in the Minnesota House offers a glimmer of stability in a period marked by tragedy and division. Governor Tim Walz, who recently announced his bid for a third term, will now work with a legislature that reflects the closely divided political landscape of the state. As Lee takes his seat in the chamber once occupied by Hortman, he carries both the weight of her legacy and the responsibility to help lead the healing process for a community that has experienced profound loss. His victory represents not just a continuation of Democratic representation in the district but also an opportunity for renewal and recovery in Minnesota’s political environment as the state confronts the painful reality of political violence while striving to maintain democratic norms and institutions.
