Politics & Government

Edina's 2012 State Office Races Starting to Shape Up

Some decisions were made at this weekend's DFL and GOP conventions, but others won't happen until late April.

Candidates for Edina's various 2012 races are beginning to come into focus, following Senate District 49 DFL and GOP conventions this weekend.

SD 49 DFL delegates endorsed candidates for state senate and house seats during thier Saturday, Mar. 24, convention.

DFL delegates eventually endorsed Target attorney Melisa Lopez Franzen for the senate seat vacated by Sen. Geoff Michel (R-Edina). Edina City Council member Ann Swenson and former Bloomington School Board member Cynthia Abrams had also been interested in the DFL endorsement for state senate.

Find out what's happening in Edinafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

As for House Districts 49A and 49B—currently represented by Keith Downey and Pat Mazorol—the DFL delegates endorsed Ron Erhardt for 49A and Paul Rosenthal for 49B.

The Senate District 49 GOP convention also took place Saturday at , though endorsement has been postponed until April 26 to allow candidates more time to consider running for office.

Find out what's happening in Edinafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Keith Downey is the lone local representative to seek re-election, but .

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.