Dems Likely Lose Full Control Of MN House, But 67-67 Split Possible

ST. PAUL, MN — The era of full Democratic control in Minnesota's government may be ending, with the state House on the brink of either a 67-67 tie or a Republican majority.

As of 9:40 a.m. Wednesday, the House stands deadlocked at 67-67, with two key races hanging in the balance. Both races, currently led by Democrats by less than 0.5 percentage points, are likely headed for recounts:

• In Shakopee, Democratic Rep. Brad Tabke holds a razor-thin 13-vote lead over Republican challenger Aaron Paul.
• In St. Cloud, Democratic Rep. Dan Wolgamott has a 28-vote edge over Republican Sue Ek.

Should either of these races ultimately flip to Republicans, the GOP will gain full control of the Minnesota House. If both remain Democratic, a complex power-sharing arrangement between the two parties will be necessary to govern the chamber.

Even without full control of the House, Republicans could act as a check on Democratic power in a way they haven’t been able to for the past two years.

Minnesota Senate

Democrats appear to have narrowly held onto the state Senate, winning the lone race on the ballot Tuesday.

This year, no regular Senate races were scheduled. However, a special election became necessary after Democrat Kelly Morrison vacated her seat to run for the U.S. House — a race she easily won on Tuesday.

In the special election for her seat in the western Twin Cities suburbs, Democrats achieved a crucial victory, preserving their narrow majority in the Senate