Special Election In Ramsey County To Decide Control Of Minnesota House

ROSEVILLE, MN — A crucial special election on Tuesday will determine control of the Minnesota House, where Republicans currently hold a narrow 67-66 majority.

After the November elections, the chamber was evenly split, but a December court ruling gave Republicans a one-seat advantage.

The vacancy prompting this special election arose after a court found that Democratic Rep.-elect Curtis Johnson had violated state residency requirements.

"While I disagree with the conclusions reached by the District Court, I recognize that whatever the decision on appeal, the ultimate decision belongs to the Legislature, where it appears there is no viable pathway for me being allowed to retain my seat," Johnson said in a statement following the ruling.

"Rather than dragging this out further, I have decided to resign now, so that a special election can be held as soon as possible and the people of 40B will be represented in the Legislature."

Voters in Ramsey County will now decide whether Democrats regain a share of power or Republicans strengthen their hold on the House.

Republican Paul Wikstrom and Democrat David Gottfried are competing in the special election for Minnesota House District 40B, with a write-in option also available.