Minnesota State Wire

As the November 5 elections approach, Minnesota voters will play a crucial role in determining the future direction of both state and national politics. While the presidential race garners significant media attention, local legislative races also hold substantial implications for small business owners and residents.

In Minnesota, all 134 seats in the House are up for election this year. The balance of power in the state house hinges on fewer than two dozen competitive districts. Additionally, a special election in Senate District 45 could determine control of the Minnesota Senate.

The Democrats currently control both the governor's office and the legislature. To maintain their hold on the House, they must continue to gain ground in suburban areas. Republicans aim to strengthen their position by securing more rural seats and reclaiming some suburban districts.

Senate District 45 is pivotal in this election cycle. It covers communities around Lake Minnetonka and was previously divided between conservative and moderately liberal districts. Following DFL State Senator Kelly Morrison's resignation to run for Congress, Republican Kathleen Fowke and Democrat Ann Johnson Stewart are vying for her seat.

Fowke, a realtor and small business owner from Tonka Bay, has received endorsements from NFIB MN PAC due to her pro-small business stance. Johnson Stewart, a civil engineer from Wayzata who served one term in the Senate, has mixed support from small businesses according to NFIB MN Voting Record.

House races in key Twin Cities suburbs include:

- **House District 32B (Blaine):** Democrat Rep. Matt Norris seeks re-election against Republican Alex Moe.

- **House District 35B (Coon Rapids):** An open seat with Republican Steve Pape facing Democrat Kari Rehrauer.

- **House District 48B (Chaska, Chanhassen):** DFL Rep. Lucy Rehm competes against Republican Caleb Steffenhagen.

- **House District 54A (Shakopee):** DFL Rep. Brad Tabke runs against newcomer Aaron Paul.

Republican-held seats include:

- **District 36A (Lino Lakes, North Oaks):** Incumbent Elliott Engen faces Janelle Calhoun.

- **District 41A (Lake Elmo):** Wayne Johnson competes with Lucia Wroblewski following Mark Wiens' retirement.

- **District 41B (Cottage Grove):** Tom Dippel challenges Jen Fox after Shane Hudella's retirement.

- **District 45A (Excelsior):** Andrew Myers defends his seat against Tracey Breazeale.

These races will shape Minnesota's political landscape as candidates vie for positions that directly impact local communities and businesses.