Seven candidates are now set for the special election to replace state Sen. Ellen Anderson, who is resigning to become chair of the Public Utilities Commission.

Five DFLers and two Republicans filed for the seat; the field will be pared to one from each party at a March 29 primary. The winners will face off April 12 in the special election. The district covers much of northern St. Paul and Falcon Heights.

DFLers are:

• State Rep. John Lesch, who represents half of the Senate District in his House position.
• Former state Rep. Mary Jo McGuire, of Falcon Heights, who represented part of the district from 1989 to 2002.
• Attorney Teresa Patton.
• Attorney Steven Marchese.
• Film producer J.T. Haines,  a former attorney.

Republicans filing were:

• Greg Copeland, a former Maplewood city manager.
• Patricia Ann O'Keefe.

Republican Party leaders have endorsed Copeland and now say that O'Keefe will abide by the endorsement. DFLers won't endorse until after the primary.