It’s less than a week from Election Day in Minnesota, and voters are hearing all about shadowy outside influences, the state’s health insurance exchange and — of course — the presidential race.
Those issues have dominated a strange campaign season in Minnesota, an election in which all 201 legislators are on the ballot but with no major statewide candidate anchoring the ticket. Instead, the presidential contest between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton is the single big race, a pairing that’s had complicated implications for the battle to control the Minnesota Legislature.
In October, Republican House Speaker Kurt Daudt denounced Trump after an “Access Hollywood” tape leaked of the Republican nominee saying he inappropriately grabbed and groped women. Republican legislative candidates in suburban swing districts are trying to avoid talking about Trump altogether, where he polls far behind Clinton. Likewise, out in rural Minnesota, Democrats are trying to talk about anything but Clinton, who is far less popular in the far-flung regions of the state than she is in the Twin Cities.
It hasn’t been easy for local legislative candidates to steer the conversation away from the presidential race to local issues, but that hasn’t stopped them from trying. Glossy mailers, radio and television ads have hit Republicans for cutting services too deeply, while others have attacked Democrats for taxing and spending too much. Both sides have tried to tie the other to mysterious outside interests, like “Twin Cities liberals” and “corporate” overlords.
The race for the Legislature also got an October surprise: Premiums on the individual marketplace through the state’s health insurance exchange, MNsure, went up between 50 and 67 percent. Responding to the news, DFL Gov. Mark Dayton said the Affordable Care Act was “no longer” affordable for many people, a quote that’s appeared in Republican mailers and television ads across the state in the final stretch of the campaign.
The stakes are high: Democrats control the Senate and the governor’s office and are hoping to win back the House, which would give them complete control of government for the next two years. Republicans, who took over the state House in 2014, are fighting to maintain control of the chamber and win back a majority in the Senate. And though all 201 seats across the state are on the ballot, there are only a handful of battleground races in the suburbs and Greater Minnesota that are truly competitive — and provide any real opportunity for the parties to make gains.
In the House, Republicans hold a 73-61 majority, meaning Democrats need to pick up at least seven seats to take back control. Republicans see a few pickup opportunities in open seats from Rochester to Minnetonka, where Democrats now in office are retiring, but they are also playing defense on seats they picked up in 2014, like those in St. Cloud and Willmar, as well as several key suburban swing seats. Likewise, Democrats want to capitalize on a few open Republican-held seats in Apple Valley and Red Wing, and they’ve set up a handful of rematches and competitive races in Greater Minnesota to try and win back a majority.
In the Senate, Democrats hold a 39-28 majority, meaning Republicans need to pick up at least six seats to win back control. So the GOP is focusing on seats that normally lean conservative but that the DFL managed to pick up in 2012, as well as a few rural districts that Democrats have held for years. Democrats, meanwhile, hope to expand their majority by picking up a seat in an open race in St. Cloud and a competitive contest in Eden Prairie.
In an effort to sort this all out, MinnPost looked at election data and talked to campaign operatives in both parties to compile a list of 29 races — 17 in the House and 12 in the Senate — that will decide control of the Legislature this fall.
All 29 races to watch are displayed below. To more easily compare, contrast and explore the races, however, you can click the "Show only" links to toggle the various filters on and off.
Note: Spending data combines cash expenditures by campaigns and by independent expenditure groups.
State Senate District 1
Incumbent:
- None - open seat
- Kip Fontaine (DFL)
- Mark Johnson (R)
Part of the recipe for Democrats long control of the state Senate is a handful of popular incumbents who’ve managed to hold on to rural districts that naturally lean conservative. DFL Sen. LeRoy Stumpf held his Republican-leaning northern Minnesota Senate seat since 1982, but his retirement puts it back in play this fall. Republicans endorsed Mark Johnson, an attorney from East Grand Forks. Democrats initially liked their chances with endorsed-candidate Kip Fontaine, a public defender from Red Lake Falls, but DFL outside resources have dried up in that race, which suggests the race is likely to be a pickup for Republicans.
| Spent to help Democrats | $9,212.27 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $71,861.67 |
22nd highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Leroy Stumpf (DFL) | 60.59% |
| Steve Nordhagen (R) | 39.33% |
| State House District 1A, 2014: | |
| Dan Fabian (R) | 67.09% |
| Bruce Patterson (DFL) | 32.82% |
| State House District 1B, 2014: | |
| Debra (Deb) Kiel (R) | 55.61% |
| Eric Bergeson (DFL) | 44.34% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 53.04% |
| Obama (D) | 44.45% |
State Senate District 2
Incumbent:
- Rod Skoe (DFL) (First elected: 2002)
- Paul Utke (R)
DFL Sen. Rod Skoe’s district leans conservative, but he’s managed to hold on to the seat for three terms. This year, Republican outside spending groups are targeting him with a fervor that’s unusual for the rural north-central Minnesota Senate district. But picking up conservative rural seats like Skoe’s is part of the Republican strategy to regain control of the upper chamber. Skoe’s opponent is Paul Utke, an insurance agent who serves on the Park Rapids City Council. Republicans also hope anti-Clinton sentiment in the area will help them win.
| Spent to help Democrats | $331,530.83 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $210,122.95 |
9th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Rod Skoe (DFL) | 54.92% |
| Dennis Moser (R) | 44.99% |
| State House District 2A, 2014: | |
| Dave Hancock (R) | 52.36% |
| Roger Erickson (DFL) | 47.49% |
| State House District 2B, 2014: | |
| Steve Green (R) | 57.16% |
| David Sobieski (DFL) | 42.77% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 52.86% |
| Obama (D) | 45.02% |
State Senate District 3
- Thomas (Tom) Bakk (DFL) (First elected: 2002)
- Jennifer L. Havlick (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $2,019.11 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
66th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Thomas (Tom) Bakk (DFL) | 64.59% |
| Jennifer Havlick (R) | 35.24% |
| State House District 3A, 2014: | |
| David Dill (DFL) | 65.55% |
| Eric Johnson (R) | 34.21% |
| State House District 3B, 2014: | |
| Mary Murphy (DFL) | 62.16% |
| Wade K. Fremling (R) | 37.72% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 57.54% |
| Romney (R) | 40.06% |
State Senate District 4
- Kent Eken (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- James Leiman (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $127,813.11 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $220,004.73 |
11th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Kent Eken (DFL) | 52.17% |
| Phil Hansen (R) | 47.70% |
| State House District 4A, 2014: | |
| Ben Lien (DFL) | 58.34% |
| Brian E. Gramer (R) | 41.47% |
| State House District 4B, 2014: | |
| Paul Marquart (DFL) | 65.84% |
| Jared Laduke (R) | 34.12% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 50.74% |
| Romney (R) | 46.73% |
State Senate District 5
- Tom Saxhaug (DFL) (First elected: 2002)
- Justin Eichorn (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $30,080.81 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $9,207.89 |
41st highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Tom Saxhaug (DFL) | 52.33% |
| John Carlson (R) | 47.56% |
| State House District 5A, 2014: | |
| John Persell (DFL) | 55.16% |
| Phillip Nelson (R) | 44.74% |
| State House District 5B, 2014: | |
| Tom Anzelc (DFL) | 56.54% |
| Justin Eichorn (R) | 43.33% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 50.52% |
| Romney (R) | 47.05% |
State Senate District 6
- David J Tomassoni (DFL) (First elected: 2000)
- Skeeter Tomczak (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $33,403.68 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $12,643.89 |
30th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| David J. Tomassoni (DFL) | 71.58% |
| Brandon D. Anderson (R) | 28.32% |
| State House District 6A, 2014: | |
| Carly Melin (DFL) | 69.38% |
| Roger Weber (R) | 30.39% |
| State House District 6B, 2014: | |
| Jason Metsa (DFL) | 64.11% |
| Matt Matasich (R) | 35.73% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 62.26% |
| Romney (R) | 35.14% |
State Senate District 7
- None - open seat
- Donna Bergstrom (R)
- Erik Simonson (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $23,031.56 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $3,744.93 |
51st highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Roger J. Reinert (DFL) | 76.90% |
| Tyler Verry (R) | 22.64% |
| State House District 7A, 2014: | |
| Jennifer Schultz (DFL) | 62.11% |
| Becky Hall (R) | 33.28% |
| Kristine Osbakken (GP) | 4.46% |
| State House District 7B, 2014: | |
| Erik Simonson (DFL) | 71.05% |
| Travis Silvers (R) | 28.64% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 68.13% |
| Romney (R) | 28.89% |
State Senate District 8
- Bill Ingebrigtsen (R) (First elected: 2006)
- Shawn Olson (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $20,046.41 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $113,473.57 |
14th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Bill Ingebrigtsen (R) | 52.86% |
| Dan Skogen (DFL) | 47.04% |
| State House District 8A, 2014: | |
| Bud Nornes (R) | 64.69% |
| Jim Miltich (DFL) | 35.22% |
| State House District 8B, 2014: | |
| Mary Franson (R) | 58.41% |
| Jay Sieling (DFL) | 41.36% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 58.32% |
| Obama (D) | 39.63% |
State Senate District 9
- Paul Gazelka (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Jason Weinerman (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $12,160.50 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $32,577.32 |
32nd highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Paul Gazelka (R) | 53.65% |
| Al Doty (DFL) | 46.22% |
| State House District 9A, 2014: | |
| Mark Anderson (R) | 63.89% |
| Dan Bye (DFL) | 36.02% |
| State House District 9B, 2014: | |
| Ron Kresha (R) | 56.42% |
| Al Doty (DFL) | 43.53% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 60.17% |
| Obama (D) | 37.47% |
State Senate District 10
- Carrie Ruud (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Tiffany Stenglein (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $25,598.60 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $14,725.98 |
38th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Carrie Ruud (R) | 53.88% |
| Taylor Stevenson (DFL) | 45.96% |
| State House District 10A, 2014: | |
| Joshua Heintzeman (R) | 53.37% |
| John Ward (DFL) | 46.54% |
| State House District 10B, 2014: | |
| Dale K Lueck (R) | 51.86% |
| Joe Radinovich (DFL) | 48% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 54.35% |
| Obama (D) | 43.51% |
State Senate District 11
- Tony Lourey (DFL) (First elected: 2006)
- Michael Cummins (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $12,472.74 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
63rd highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Tony Lourey (DFL) | 64.22% |
| Bill Saumer (R) | 35.63% |
| State House District 11A, 2014: | |
| Mike Sundin (DFL) | 62.35% |
| Tim Hafvenstein (R) | 37.55% |
| State House District 11B, 2014: | |
| Jason Rarick (R) | 53.67% |
| Tim Faust (DFL) | 46.15% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 54.57% |
| Romney (R) | 42.86% |
State Senate District 12
- Torrey Westrom (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Russ Hinrichs (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $45,542.53 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $36,157.18 |
21st highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Torrey Westrom (R) | 61.49% |
| John Schultz (DFL) | 38.44% |
| State House District 12A, 2014: | |
| Jeff Backer (R) | 51.85% |
| Jay Mcnamar (DFL) | 47.93% |
| State House District 12B, 2014: | |
| Paul Anderson (R) | 67.84% |
| Gordon (Gordy) Wagner (DFL) | 32.1% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 56.48% |
| Obama (D) | 41.34% |
State Senate District 13
- Michelle Fischbach (R) (First elected: 1996)
- Michael Willemsen (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $17,933.30 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $18,079.59 |
43rd highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Michelle Fischbach (R) | 63.53% |
| Peggy Boeck (DFL) | 36.32% |
| State House District 13A, 2014: | |
| Jeff Howe (R) | 60.51% |
| Emily Jensen (DFL) | 39.38% |
| State House District 13B, 2014: | |
| Tim O'Driscoll (R) | 97.48% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 57.04% |
| Obama (D) | 40.82% |
State Senate District 14
Incumbent:
- None - open seat
- Dan Wolgamott (DFL)
- Jerry Relph (R)
St. Cloud residents have been inundated with campaign ads and mailers this fall with an open seat in the Senate. Republican Sen. John Pederson is retiring after two terms, and his party recruited Jerry Relph, a small business owner in the district with a similar profile as Pederson. Democrats have recruited Dan Wolgamott, a young real estate agent who made an unsuccessful bid for the more conservative part of the district in the House last cycle.
| Spent to help Democrats | $453,380.03 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $265,127.08 |
2nd highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| John Pederson (R) | 52.47% |
| Jerry Mccarter (DFL) | 47.27% |
| State House District 14A, 2014: | |
| Tama Theis (R) | 54.9% |
| Dan Wolgamott (DFL) | 44.96% |
| State House District 14B, 2014: | |
| Jim Knoblach (R) | 50.15% |
| Zachary "Zach" Dorholt (DFL) | 49.54% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 50.16% |
| Romney (R) | 46.76% |
State Senate District 15
- None - open seat
- Chilah Brown (DFL)
- Andrew Mathews (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $3,540.82 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $19,016.49 |
56th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Dave Brown (R) | 56.55% |
| Sally Knox (DFL) | 43.31% |
| State House District 15A, 2014: | |
| Sondra Erickson (R) | 63.01% |
| James Rittenour (DFL) | 36.8% |
| State House District 15B, 2014: | |
| Jim Newberger (R) | 63.93% |
| Brian Johnson (DFL) | 35.95% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 59.18% |
| Obama (D) | 38.29% |
State Senate District 16
- Gary Dahms (R) (First elected: 2010)
- James Kanne (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $16,791.06 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $44,968.94 |
24th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Gary Dahms (R) | 53.01% |
| Ted L. Suss (DFL) | 46.87% |
| State House District 16A, 2014: | |
| Chris Swedzinski (R) | 61.72% |
| Laurie Driessen (DFL) | 38.24% |
| State House District 16B, 2014: | |
| Paul Torkelson (R) | 64.94% |
| James Kanne (DFL) | 34.95% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 54.83% |
| Obama (D) | 42.6% |
State Senate District 17
Incumbent:
- Lyle Koenen (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Andrew Lang (R)
DFL Sen. Lyle Koenen has one of the most conservative voting records of any member of his caucus, and for good reason: His district is one of the most Republican-leaning districts still held by Democrats. Koenen is a lifelong resident of Chippewa County and works as milk contract hauler. He was first elected to the Senate in 2012 after serving a decade in the state House, so he’s well known in the area. But outside spending groups are taking their best shot at unseating him this year, and Republicans have put forward Andrew Lang, a Minnesota National Guard officer and pilot from Olivia.
| Spent to help Democrats | $331,190.69 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $271,283.84 |
5th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Lyle Koenen (DFL) | 55.40% |
| Joe Gimse (R) | 44.46% |
| State House District 17A, 2014: | |
| Tim Miller (R) | 55.37% |
| Andrew Falk (DFL) | 44.47% |
| State House District 17B, 2014: | |
| Dave Baker (R) | 50.66% |
| Mary Sawatzky (DFL) | 49.27% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 50.88% |
| Obama (D) | 47.0% |
State Senate District 18
- Scott J Newman (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Amy Wilde (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $15,226.51 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $35,745.60 |
28th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Scott J. Newman (R) | 58.15% |
| Steven Schiroo (DFL) | 41.71% |
| State House District 18A, 2014: | |
| Dean Urdahl (R) | 67.22% |
| Steven Schiroo (DFL) | 32.43% |
| State House District 18B, 2014: | |
| Glenn H. Gruenhagen (R) | 63.94% |
| John Lipke (DFL) | 35.88% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 58.97% |
| Obama (D) | 38.27% |
State Senate District 19
- None - open seat
- Nick Frentz (DFL)
- Willa Dailey (R)
- Shane Wernsing (LIB)
| Spent to help Democrats | $72,720.36 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $25,498.50 |
17th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Kathy Sheran (DFL) | 97.52% |
| State House District 19A, 2014: | |
| Clark Johnson (DFL) | 54.08% |
| Kim Spears (R) | 45.78% |
| State House District 19B, 2014: | |
| Jack Considine (DFL) | 55.96% |
| Dave Kruse (R) | 43.87% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 54.39% |
| Romney (R) | 42.31% |
State Senate District 20
Incumbent:
- Kevin L. Dahle (DFL) (First elected: 2008)
- Rich Draheim (R)
This state Senate seat represents a classic swing district, meaning it’s competitive every cycle, no matter who’s at the top of the ticket. That’s because the district includes Northfield, which leans Democratic, but also many small towns and townships, which tend lean Republican. That’s true again this cycle, as incumbent DFL Rep. Kevin Dahle defends his seat against Republican Rich Draheim, a relator in the area.
| Spent to help Democrats | $400,783.22 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $152,495.26 |
7th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Kevin L. Dahle (DFL) | 50.02% |
| Mike Dudley (R) | 49.85% |
| State House District 20A, 2014: | |
| Bob Vogel (R) | 64.29% |
| Thomas Lofgren (DFL) | 35.52% |
| State House District 20B, 2014: | |
| David Bly (DFL) | 57.97% |
| Dan Matejcek (R) | 41.8% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 50.43% |
| Obama (D) | 47.12% |
State Senate District 21
Incumbent:
- Matt Schmit (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Mike Goggin (R)
Matt Schmit has a reputation as a hard campaigner in his Red Wing-area Senate district, but he’s on the ballot for the first time since he was first elected in 2012, a good year for Democrats. The district has swung back and forth over the years, and Republicans have recruited Mike Goggins, a union member who works at a power plant in the district. The Goggin name is strong in the area, according to Republicans, as his father used to run the Red Wing Shoe Company.
| Spent to help Democrats | $370,828.07 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $289,724.25 |
4th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Matt Schmit (DFL) | 52.43% |
| John Howe (R) | 47.44% |
| State House District 21A, 2014: | |
| Tim Kelly (R) | 62.17% |
| Lynn Schoen (DFL) | 37.78% |
| State House District 21B, 2014: | |
| Steve Drazkowski (R) | 63.33% |
| M.A. Schneider (DFL) | 36.38% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 50.16% |
| Obama (D) | 47.45% |
State Senate District 22
- Bill Weber (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Brian Abrahamson (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $2,078.82 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $38,524.95 |
37th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Bill Weber (R) | 52.76% |
| Alan Oberloh (DFL) | 47.11% |
| State House District 22A, 2014: | |
| Joe Schomacker (R) | 66.71% |
| Diana Slyter (DFL) | 33.21% |
| State House District 22B, 2014: | |
| Rod Hamilton (R) | 66.19% |
| Cheryl Avenel-Navara (DFL) | 33.72% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 55.35% |
| Obama (D) | 42.58% |
State Senate District 23
- Julie Rosen (R) (First elected: 2002)
- Barbara Ann Lake (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $190.84 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $23,101.81 |
54th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Julie Ann Rosen (R) | 63.97% |
| Paul Marquardt (DFL) | 35.94% |
| State House District 23A, 2014: | |
| Bob Gunther (R) | 61.66% |
| Pat Bacon (DFL) | 38.3% |
| State House District 23B, 2014: | |
| Tony Cornish (R) | 96.11% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 54.5% |
| Obama (D) | 42.99% |
State Senate District 24
Incumbent:
- Vicki Jensen (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- John Jasinski (R)
John Jasinski is one of several Republican recruits this cycle in the so-called “Mayor’s Club.” Jasinski is the two-term Mayor of Faribault and a former city council member, and Republicans are excited about his popularity in the district’s biggest population center. But Jasinski is going up against incumbent Sen. Vicki Jensen, a moderate Democrat and former Owatonna School Board Member who runs an insurance agency in the district.
| Spent to help Democrats | $400,665.04 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $144,363.21 |
8th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Vicki Jensen (DFL) | 52.60% |
| Vern Swedin (R) | 47.23% |
| State House District 24A, 2014: | |
| John Petersburg (R) | 54.73% |
| Beverly Cashman (DFL) | 45.21% |
| State House District 24B, 2014: | |
| Brian Daniels (R) | 50.85% |
| Patti Fritz (DFL) | 49.02% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 51.24% |
| Obama (D) | 46.11% |
State Senate District 25
- David H. Senjem (R) (First elected: 2002)
- Dale Amorosia (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $486.91 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $34,870.06 |
44th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| David H. Senjem (R) | 53.72% |
| Judy Ohly (DFL) | 46.13% |
| State House District 25A, 2014: | |
| Duane Quam (R) | 96.24% |
| State House District 25B, 2014: | |
| Kim Norton (DFL) | 94.91% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 49.0% |
| Romney (R) | 48.17% |
State Senate District 26
- Carla Nelson (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Rich Wright (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $17,175.70 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $55,825.01 |
23rd highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Carla Nelson (R) | 55.62% |
| Kenneth R. Moen (DFL) | 44.20% |
| State House District 26A, 2014: | |
| Tina Liebling (DFL) | 55.23% |
| Breanna Bly (R) | 44.67% |
| State House District 26B, 2014: | |
| Nels T. Pierson (R) | 59.85% |
| Rich Wright (DFL) | 40.03% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 50.17% |
| Romney (R) | 47.13% |
State Senate District 27
- Dan Sparks (DFL) (First elected: 2002)
- Gene Dornink (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $24,632.33 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $24,119.46 |
29th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Dan Sparks (DFL) | 68.22% |
| Linden Anderson (R) | 31.69% |
| State House District 27A, 2014: | |
| Peggy Bennett (R) | 53.04% |
| Shannon Savick (DFL) | 39.93% |
| Thomas Keith Price (IP) | 6.93% |
| State House District 27B, 2014: | |
| Jeanne Poppe (DFL) | 54.1% |
| Dennis Schminke (R) | 45.8% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 57.43% |
| Romney (R) | 40.05% |
State Senate District 28
- Jeremy Miller (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Jon Pieper (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $24,894.04 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $27,740.73 |
26th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Jeremy Miller (R) | 57.12% |
| Jack Krage (DFL) | 42.74% |
| State House District 28A, 2014: | |
| Gene P Pelowski Jr (DFL) | 62.7% |
| Lynae Hahn (R) | 37.1% |
| State House District 28B, 2014: | |
| Gregory M. Davids (R) | 55.88% |
| Jon Pieper (DFL) | 43.96% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 53.92% |
| Romney (R) | 43.43% |
State Senate District 29
- Bruce Anderson (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Janice Holter Kittok (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $8,339.32 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $17,041.85 |
53rd highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Bruce Anderson (R) | 60.56% |
| Brian Doran (DFL) | 39.25% |
| State House District 29A, 2014: | |
| Joe Mcdonald (R) | 96.8% |
| State House District 29B, 2014: | |
| Marion O'Neill (R) | 96.77% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 58.65% |
| Obama (D) | 38.85% |
State Senate District 30
- Mary Kiffmeyer (R) (First elected: 2012)
- P.J. LaCroix (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $1,208.78 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $15,839.71 |
59th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Mary Kiffmeyer (R) | 62.41% |
| Paul Perovich (DFL) | 37.45% |
| State House District 30A, 2014: | |
| Nick Zerwas (R) | 68.51% |
| Brenden Ellingboe (DFL) | 31.35% |
| State House District 30B, 2014: | |
| Eric Lucero (R) | 67.75% |
| Sharon G. Shimek (DFL) | 32.02% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 60.01% |
| Obama (D) | 37.9% |
State Senate District 31
- Michelle Benson (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Ricky Englund (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $10,399.59 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $15,646.34 |
52nd highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Michelle Benson (R) | 58.64% |
| Mike Starr (DFL) | 41.24% |
| State House District 31A, 2014: | |
| Kurt Daudt (R) | 96.67% |
| State House District 31B, 2014: | |
| Tom Hackbarth (R) | 64.47% |
| Jd Holmquist (DFL) | 35.39% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 60.7% |
| Obama (D) | 36.99% |
State Senate District 32
- None - open seat
- Tim Nelson (DFL)
- Mark Koran (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $84,377.75 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $20,972.49 |
16th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Sean Nienow (R) | 54.25% |
| Jeske Noordergraaf (DFL) | 45.59% |
| State House District 32A, 2014: | |
| Brian Johnson (R) | 57.48% |
| Paul Gammel (DFL) | 42.41% |
| State House District 32B, 2014: | |
| Bob Barrett (R) | 55.73% |
| Laurie J. Warner (DFL) | 44.19% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 55.71% |
| Obama (D) | 41.89% |
State Senate District 33
- David Osmek (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Jay Nygard (LIB)
- Sherrie Pugh (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $34,016.02 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $26,903.13 |
25th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| David Osmek (R) | 58.92% |
| Judy Rogosheske (DFL) | 40.85% |
| State House District 33A, 2014: | |
| Jerry Hertaus (R) | 65.7% |
| Todd Mikkelson (DFL) | 34.19% |
| State House District 33B, 2014: | |
| Cindy Pugh (R) | 61.22% |
| Paul Alegi (DFL) | 38.69% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 58.39% |
| Obama (D) | 39.88% |
State Senate District 34
- Warren Limmer (R) (First elected: 1995)
- Bonnie Westlin (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $21,091.94 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $20,840.25 |
36th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Warren Limmer (R) | 57.04% |
| Sharon Bahensky (DFL) | 42.83% |
| State House District 34A, 2014: | |
| Joyce Peppin (R) | 97.05% |
| State House District 34B, 2014: | |
| Dennis Smith (R) | 56.36% |
| David B. Hoden (DFL) | 43.54% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 54.63% |
| Obama (D) | 43.51% |
State Senate District 35
- Jim Abeler (R) (First elected: 2016)
- Roger Johnson (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $18,772.87 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $14,691.91 |
46th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Branden Petersen (R) | 54.21% |
| Peter Perovich (DFL) | 45.63% |
| State House District 35A, 2014: | |
| Abigail Whelan (R) | 59.95% |
| Peter Perovich (DFL) | 39.86% |
| State House District 35B, 2014: | |
| Peggy Scott (R) | 65.97% |
| Sam Beard (DFL) | 33.94% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 54.84% |
| Obama (D) | 42.96% |
State Senate District 36
Incumbent:
- John Hoffman (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Jeffrey Lunde (R)
The Senate district that covers suburban cities like Champlin and Brooklyn Park is typically a competitive seat, but Republicans think their recruit this year gives them an advantage. Jeff Lunde is mayor of Brooklyn Park, a part of the district where Republicans usually struggle to pick up votes. But Incumbent Sen. John Hoffman is a former member of the Anoka-Hennepin School Board and Democrats are fighting hard to keep him in the Senate.
| Spent to help Democrats | $473,664.14 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $111,418.03 |
6th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| John Hoffman (DFL) | 53.10% |
| Benjamin Kruse (R) | 46.71% |
| State House District 36A, 2014: | |
| Mark W. Uglem (R) | 58.95% |
| Jefferson Fietek (DFL) | 40.92% |
| State House District 36B, 2014: | |
| Melissa Hortman (DFL) | 51.9% |
| Peter Crema (R) | 48% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 50.8% |
| Romney (R) | 47.12% |
State Senate District 37
Incumbent:
- None - open seat
- Brad Sanford (R)
- Jerry Newton (DFL)
DFL Sen. Alice Johnson’s retirement from her suburban Senate seat has made this a target for Republicans. They’ve Recruited Brad Sanford, a banker and youth sports coach in the district who is taking his first step into the political world. He’s running against an experienced lawmaker in Jerry Newton, a teacher who has represented one-half of the district in the House since 2008. But it’s a competitive district, represented in the House by both a Democrat and a Republican.
| Spent to help Democrats | $295,003.93 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $30,052.60 |
12th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Alice M. Johnson (DFL) | 53.23% |
| Pam Wolf (R) | 46.57% |
| State House District 37A, 2014: | |
| Jerry Newton (DFL) | 52.45% |
| Mandy Benz (R) | 47.46% |
| State House District 37B, 2014: | |
| Tim Sanders (R) | 55.4% |
| Susan Witt (DFL) | 44.54% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 50.72% |
| Romney (R) | 46.85% |
State Senate District 38
- Roger Chamberlain (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Pat Davern (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $19,131.10 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $23,302.27 |
35th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Roger Chamberlain (R) | 53.22% |
| Timothy Henderson (DFL) | 46.59% |
| State House District 38A, 2014: | |
| Linda Runbeck (R) | 62.19% |
| Pat Davern (DFL) | 37.71% |
| State House District 38B, 2014: | |
| Matt Dean (R) | 56.07% |
| Greg M. Pariseau (DFL) | 43.8% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 52.71% |
| Obama (D) | 45.19% |
State Senate District 39
- Karin Housley (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Sten Hakanson (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $12,583.85 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $30,786.14 |
34th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Karin Housley (R) | 50.62% |
| Julie Bunn (DFL) | 49.25% |
| State House District 39A, 2014: | |
| Bob Dettmer (R) | 58.02% |
| Tim Stender (DFL) | 41.91% |
| State House District 39B, 2014: | |
| Kathy Lohmer (R) | 54.56% |
| Tom Degree (DFL) | 45.37% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 51.78% |
| Obama (D) | 46.3% |
State Senate District 40
- Chris Eaton (DFL) (First elected: 2011)
- Robert Marvin (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $0.00 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
67th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Chris Eaton (DFL) | 96.93% |
| State House District 40A, 2014: | |
| Michael Nelson (DFL) | 64.85% |
| Charles (Chuck) Sutphen (R) | 34.94% |
| State House District 40B, 2014: | |
| Debra Hilstrom (DFL) | 67.36% |
| Mali Marvin (R) | 32.45% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 68.91% |
| Romney (R) | 28.97% |
State Senate District 41
- None - open seat
- Gary R. Johnson (R)
- Carolyn Laine (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $21,634.35 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
57th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Barb Goodwin (DFL) | 62.82% |
| Gina Bauman (R) | 36.95% |
| State House District 41A, 2014: | |
| Connie Bernardy (DFL) | 60.16% |
| Jeff Phillips (R) | 39.68% |
| State House District 41B, 2014: | |
| Carolyn Laine (DFL) | 57.38% |
| Camden Pike (R) | 29.29% |
| Tim Utz (CP) | 13.27% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 60.71% |
| Romney (R) | 36.69% |
State Senate District 42
- None - open seat
- Jason "Ike" Isaacson (DFL)
- Candy Sina (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $5,642.30 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $28,834.12 |
45th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Bev Scalze (DFL) | 55.57% |
| April King (R) | 44.27% |
| State House District 42A, 2014: | |
| Barb Yarusso (DFL) | 50.55% |
| Randy Jessup (R) | 49.28% |
| State House District 42B, 2014: | |
| Jason "Ike" Isaacson (DFL) | 52.3% |
| Heidi Gunderson (R) | 47.55% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 53.95% |
| Romney (R) | 43.74% |
State Senate District 43
- Charles "Chuck" Wiger (DFL) (First elected: 1996)
- Chris Belflower (IP)
- Bob Zick (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $38,445.45 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
42nd highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Charles "Chuck" Wiger (DFL) | 62.25% |
| Duane E. (Swede) Johnson (R) | 37.53% |
| State House District 43A, 2014: | |
| Peter M Fischer (DFL) | 50.64% |
| Stacey Stout (R) | 49.14% |
| State House District 43B, 2014: | |
| Leon M. Lillie (DFL) | 58.08% |
| Justice B. Whitethorn (R) | 41.75% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 56.81% |
| Romney (R) | 41.01% |
State Senate District 44
Incumbent:
- None - open seat
- Paul Anderson (R)
- Deb Calvert (DFL)
DFL Sen. Terri Bonoff is on to bigger things this election cycle, making a run at the 3rd Congressional District and incumbent GOP U.S. Rep. Erik Paulsen. That leaves open this competitive Minnetonka and Plymouth-area seat, which Bonoff first won in a special election in 2005. She held on to the swing seat over the years with a moderate tone and business-friendly positions on everything from tax increases to the minimum wage. To replace Bonoff, Democrats recruited Deb Calvert, a former staffer for Sen. Amy Klobuchar who now works in the dean’s office at Mitchell Hamline School of Law. But Republicans are excited about their candidate, too: Paul Anderson, a well-known Republican activist who previously served as a deputy chief of staff for former Gov. Tim Pawlenty. As of now, this race on track to be the most expensive single race for the Legislature this year, with more than $700,000 spent by mid October.
| Spent to help Democrats | $464,387.91 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $379,486.81 |
1st highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Terri Bonoff (DFL) | 55.81% |
| David Gaither (R) | 44.04% |
| State House District 44A, 2014: | |
| Sarah Anderson (R) | 55.51% |
| Audrey Britton (DFL) | 44.43% |
| State House District 44B, 2014: | |
| Jon Applebaum (DFL) | 51.3% |
| Ryan Rutzick (R) | 48.46% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 51.15% |
| Romney (R) | 47.29% |
State Senate District 45
- Ann H. Rest (DFL) (First elected: 2000)
- Roxana Bruins (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $18,740.55 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $10,248.31 |
48th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Ann H. Rest (DFL) | 65.45% |
| Blair Tremere (R) | 34.40% |
| State House District 45A, 2014: | |
| Lyndon R. Carlson (DFL) | 56.52% |
| Richard Lieberman (R) | 43.28% |
| State House District 45B, 2014: | |
| Mike Freiberg (DFL) | 66.94% |
| Alma J. Wetzker (R) | 32.89% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 61.18% |
| Romney (R) | 36.34% |
State Senate District 46
- Ron Latz (DFL) (First elected: 2006)
| Spent to help Democrats | $9,193.34 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
64th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Ron Latz (DFL) | 66.82% |
| Paul Scofield (R) | 32.97% |
| State House District 46A, 2014: | |
| Ryan Winkler (DFL) | 66.17% |
| Timothy O. Manthey (R) | 33.66% |
| State House District 46B, 2014: | |
| Cheryl Youakim (DFL) | 68.5% |
| Bryan P. Björnson (R) | 31.3% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 64.81% |
| Romney (R) | 32.76% |
State Senate District 47
- None - open seat
- Darryl Scarborough (DFL)
- Scott Jensen (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $2,952.31 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $37,172.14 |
39th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Julianne Ortman (R) | 63.76% |
| James F. Weygand (DFL) | 35.96% |
| State House District 47A, 2014: | |
| Jim Nash (R) | 67.63% |
| Matthew W. Gieseke (DFL) | 32.08% |
| State House District 47B, 2014: | |
| Joe Hoppe (R) | 97.18% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 59.46% |
| Obama (D) | 38.62% |
State Senate District 48
Incumbent:
- David Hann (R) (First elected: 2002)
- Steve Cwodzinski (DFL)
Senate District 48 in Eden Prairie was evenly split between Obama and Romney in 2012, and the House districts are represented by both a Republican and a Democrat. In the Senate, Republican Minority Leader David Hann holds the seat and has for the last 15 years. That’s not stopping Democrats from targeting his seat this fall with recruit Steve Cwodzinski, a popular American Government teacher in Eden Prairie High School who retired earlier this year. In particular, Democrats hope Trump’s unpopularity in the suburbs and support for a DFL-backed Southwest Light Rail Transit project will tip the race over into their control.
| Spent to help Democrats | $361,794.96 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $356,219.60 |
3rd highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| David Hann (R) | 51.32% |
| Laurie Mckendry (DFL) | 48.58% |
| State House District 48A, 2014: | |
| Yvonne Selcer (DFL) | 50.04% |
| Kirk Stensrud (R) | 49.83% |
| State House District 48B, 2014: | |
| Jenifer Loon (R) | 64.42% |
| Joan Howe-Pullis (DFL) | 35.43% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 49.47% |
| Romney (R) | 48.66% |
State Senate District 49
- Melisa Franzen (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Mike Lehmann (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $74,199.81 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $16,560.85 |
20th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Melisa Franzen (DFL) | 52.74% |
| Keith Downey (R) | 47.15% |
| State House District 49A, 2014: | |
| Ron Erhardt (DFL) | 51.38% |
| Dario Anselmo (R) | 48.55% |
| State House District 49B, 2014: | |
| Paul Rosenthal (DFL) | 52.8% |
| Barb Sutter (R) | 47.11% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 52.27% |
| Romney (R) | 46.34% |
State Senate District 50
- Melissa Halvorson Wiklund (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Kirsten Johnson (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $17,565.13 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
58th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Melissa Halvorson Wiklund (DFL) | 60.85% |
| Vern Wilcox (R) | 38.95% |
| State House District 50A, 2014: | |
| Linda Slocum (DFL) | 64.72% |
| Dean Mumbleau (R) | 35.11% |
| State House District 50B, 2014: | |
| Ann Lenczewski (DFL) | 65.6% |
| Zavier Bicott (R) | 34.24% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 59.96% |
| Romney (R) | 37.58% |
State Senate District 51
- Jim Carlson (DFL) (First elected: 2006)
- Victor Lake (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $72,461.77 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $79,168.89 |
13th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Jim Carlson (DFL) | 53.09% |
| Ted Daley (R) | 46.73% |
| State House District 51A, 2014: | |
| Sandra Masin (DFL) | 51.47% |
| Andrea Todd-Harlin (R) | 48.34% |
| State House District 51B, 2014: | |
| Laurie Halverson (DFL) | 51.09% |
| Jen Wilson (R) | 48.8% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 53.23% |
| Romney (R) | 44.55% |
State Senate District 52
- None - open seat
- Mark Misukanis (R)
- Matt Klein (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $66,863.83 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $30,660.83 |
18th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| James Metzen (DFL) | 62.00% |
| Dwight Rabuse (R) | 37.78% |
| State House District 52A, 2014: | |
| Rick Hansen (DFL) | 59.38% |
| Joe Blum (R) | 40.46% |
| State House District 52B, 2014: | |
| Joe Atkins (DFL) | 64.47% |
| Don Lee (R) | 35.45% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 55.64% |
| Romney (R) | 42.16% |
State Senate District 53
- Susan Kent (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Sharna Wahlgren (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $78,555.41 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $16,689.29 |
19th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Susan Kent (DFL) | 52.13% |
| Ted Lillie (R) | 47.73% |
| State House District 53A, 2014: | |
| Joann Ward (DFL) | 58.36% |
| Lukas Czech (R) | 41.47% |
| State House District 53B, 2014: | |
| Kelly Fenton (R) | 56.93% |
| Kay Hendrikson (DFL) | 42.96% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 51.47% |
| Romney (R) | 46.73% |
State Senate District 54
- None - open seat
- Dan Schoen (DFL)
- Leilani Holmstadt (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $26,026.15 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $13,953.26 |
40th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Katie Sieben (DFL) | 63.80% |
| Janis Quinlan (R) | 36.05% |
| State House District 54A, 2014: | |
| Dan Schoen (DFL) | 55.52% |
| Matthew Kowalski (R) | 44.35% |
| State House District 54B, 2014: | |
| Denny Mcnamara (R) | 60.54% |
| Donald Slaten (DFL) | 39.32% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 52.31% |
| Romney (R) | 45.15% |
State Senate District 55
- Eric Pratt (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Ali C. Ali (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $0.00 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $8,124.23 |
65th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Eric Pratt (R) | 55.11% |
| Kathy Busch (DFL) | 44.75% |
| State House District 55A, 2014: | |
| Bob Loonan (R) | 56.75% |
| Jay C. Whiting (DFL) | 38.76% |
| Derek Thury (IP) | 4.41% |
| State House District 55B, 2014: | |
| Tony Albright (R) | 61% |
| Kevin Burkart (DFL) | 35.65% |
| Josh D. Ondich (IP) | 3.33% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 56.08% |
| Obama (D) | 41.67% |
State Senate District 56
- Dan Hall (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Phillip M. Sterner (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $4,762.00 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $41,067.08 |
31st highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Dan Hall (R) | 53.92% |
| Leon Thurman (DFL) | 45.90% |
| State House District 56A, 2014: | |
| Drew Christensen (R) | 55.81% |
| Dan Kimmel (DFL) | 44.01% |
| State House District 56B, 2014: | |
| Roz Peterson (R) | 53.99% |
| Will Morgan (DFL) | 45.83% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 49.71% |
| Obama (D) | 48.09% |
State Senate District 57
Incumbent:
- Greg Clausen (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Cory Campbell (R)
Greg Clausen was swept into the Senate in the DFL wave of 2012, but he now holds a suburban seat with a long Republican history. The district covers parts of Apple Valley, Rosemount and Lakeville, which tend to trend conservative. Republicans recruited small business owner Cory Campbell to try and win the district back, but Democrats feel good about Clausen, a leader on education issues in the chamber.
| Spent to help Democrats | $304,984.74 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $85,087.95 |
10th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Greg Clausen (DFL) | 54.09% |
| Pat Hall (R) | 45.73% |
| State House District 57A, 2014: | |
| Tara Mack (R) | 58.44% |
| Bruce Folken (DFL) | 41.52% |
| State House District 57B, 2014: | |
| Anna Wills (R) | 58.4% |
| Denise Packard (DFL) | 41.53% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 49.62% |
| Romney (R) | 48.36% |
State Senate District 58
- None - open seat
- Matt Little (DFL)
- Tim Pitcher (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $81,710.76 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $34,542.25 |
15th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Dave Thompson (R) | 57.60% |
| Andrew Brobston (DFL) | 42.28% |
| State House District 58A, 2014: | |
| Jon Koznick (R) | 55.28% |
| Amy Willingham (DFL) | 44.63% |
| State House District 58B, 2014: | |
| Pat Garofalo (R) | 63.85% |
| Marla Vagts (DFL) | 36.02% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 55.73% |
| Obama (D) | 42.24% |
State Senate District 59
- Bobby Joe Champion (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Jennifer Carnahan (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $26,317.15 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $17,371.45 |
33rd highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Bobby Joe Champion (DFL) | 82.02% |
| Jim Lilly (R) | 17.54% |
| State House District 59A, 2014: | |
| Joe Mullery (DFL) | 81.98% |
| Fred Statema (R) | 17.24% |
| State House District 59B, 2014: | |
| Raymond Dehn (DFL) | 78.1% |
| Margaret E. Martin (R) | 21.42% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 82.05% |
| Romney (R) | 15.62% |
State Senate District 60
- Kari Dziedzic (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Martin J Super (LMN)
| Spent to help Democrats | $23,237.25 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
55th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Kari Dziedzic (DFL) | 77.06% |
| Mark Lazarchic (R) | 17.00% |
| Rahn V. Workcuff (IP) | 5.52% |
| State House District 60A, 2014: | |
| Diane Loeffler (DFL) | 82.42% |
| Brent Millsop (R) | 17.24% |
| State House District 60B, 2014: | |
| Phyllis Kahn (DFL) | 76.89% |
| Abdimalik Askar (R) | 22.34% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 76.55% |
| Romney (R) | 18.83% |
State Senate District 61
- Scott Dibble (DFL) (First elected: 2002)
- Bob "Again" Carney Jr. (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $14,887.75 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
60th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Scott Dibble (DFL) | 98.08% |
| State House District 61A, 2014: | |
| Frank Hornstein (DFL) | 80.79% |
| Frank Taylor (R) | 18.96% |
| State House District 61B, 2014: | |
| Paul Thissen (DFL) | 80.94% |
| Tom Gallagher (R) | 18.92% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 77.96% |
| Romney (R) | 19.61% |
State Senate District 62
- Jeff Hayden (DFL) (First elected: 2011)
- Bruce Lundeen (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $26,778.18 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
50th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Jeff Hayden (DFL) | 86.84% |
| Eric Blair (IP) | 12.70% |
| State House District 62A, 2014: | |
| Karen Clark (DFL) | 82.13% |
| Yolandita Colón (IP) | 9.57% |
| Bruce Lundeen (R) | 8.05% |
| State House District 62B, 2014: | |
| Susan Allen (DFL) | 88.66% |
| Julie Hanson (R) | 10.93% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 86.42% |
| Romney (R) | 9.68% |
State Senate District 63
- Patricia Torres Ray (DFL) (First elected: 2006)
- Ron Moey (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $13,904.04 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
61st highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Patricia Torres Ray (DFL) | 80.81% |
| Patrick Marron (R) | 18.93% |
| State House District 63A, 2014: | |
| Jim Davnie (DFL) | 86.44% |
| Kyle Bragg (R) | 13.21% |
| State House District 63B, 2014: | |
| Jean Wagenius (DFL) | 75.06% |
| Andres Hortillosa (R) | 24.64% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 78.13% |
| Romney (R) | 19.07% |
State Senate District 64
- Dick Cohen (DFL) (First elected: 1986)
- Ian Baird (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $30,506.45 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $272.80 |
47th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Dick Cohen (DFL) | 69.67% |
| Sharon Anderson (R) | 19.14% |
| Scott Larson (IND) | 10.97% |
| State House District 64A, 2014: | |
| Erin Murphy (DFL) | 81.21% |
| Andrew Brown (R) | 18.52% |
| State House District 64B, 2014: | |
| Dave Pinto (DFL) | 73.49% |
| Daniel Surman (R) | 26.25% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 73.42% |
| Romney (R) | 23.84% |
State Senate District 65
- Sandy Pappas (DFL) (First elected: 1990)
- Jason Delmont (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $12,614.91 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
62nd highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Sandy Pappas (DFL) | 81.72% |
| Rick Karschnia (R) | 17.91% |
| State House District 65A, 2014: | |
| Rena Moran (DFL) | 71.2% |
| Anthony Meschke (R) | 14.59% |
| Lena Buggs (GP) | 14.06% |
| State House District 65B, 2014: | |
| Carlos Mariani (DFL) | 77.54% |
| Anthony "Tony" Athen (R) | 21.91% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 80.21% |
| Romney (R) | 16.75% |
State Senate District 66
- John Marty (DFL) (First elected: 1986)
- Carolyn Jass (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $26,999.92 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $1,701.63 |
49th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| John Marty (DFL) | 73.82% |
| Wayde Brooks (R) | 25.87% |
| State House District 66A, 2014: | |
| Alice Hausman (DFL) | 67.09% |
| Jon Heyer (R) | 32.76% |
| State House District 66B, 2014: | |
| John Lesch (DFL) | 76.41% |
| Lizz Paulson (R) | 23.06% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 70.92% |
| Romney (R) | 26.5% |
State Senate District 67
- Foung Hawj (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Krysia Weidell (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $52,492.94 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
27th highest spending of all Senate districts.
| This district, 2012: | |
| Foung Hawj (DFL) | 72.46% |
| Mike Capistrant (R) | 27.11% |
| State House District 67A, 2014: | |
| Tim Mahoney (DFL) | 72.43% |
| Andrew Livingston (R) | 27.26% |
| State House District 67B, 2014: | |
| Sheldon Johnson (DFL) | 72.82% |
| John T. Quinn (R) | 26.79% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 75.09% |
| Romney (R) | 22.33% |
State House District 1A
- Dan Fabian (R) (First elected: 2010)
- George Nyakasi Bass (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $34.52 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $14,948.74 |
99th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Dan Fabian (R) | 67.09% |
| Bruce Patterson (DFL) | 32.82% |
| State Senate District 1, 2012: | |
| Leroy Stumpf (DFL) | 60.59% |
| Steve Nordhagen (R) | 39.33% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 54.33% |
| Obama (D) | 42.98% |
State House District 1B
- None - open seat
- Michael "Mike" Moore (DFL)
- Debra (Deb) Kiel (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $16,752.10 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $27,460.84 |
46th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Debra (Deb) Kiel (R) | 55.61% |
| Eric Bergeson (DFL) | 44.34% |
| State Senate District 1, 2012: | |
| Leroy Stumpf (DFL) | 60.59% |
| Steve Nordhagen (R) | 39.33% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 51.73% |
| Obama (D) | 45.93% |
State House District 2A
- None - open seat
- Jerry Loud (DFL)
- Matthew J. Grossell (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $2,530.09 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $84,753.11 |
27th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Dave Hancock (R) | 52.36% |
| Roger Erickson (DFL) | 47.49% |
| State Senate District 2, 2012: | |
| Rod Skoe (DFL) | 54.92% |
| Dennis Moser (R) | 44.99% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 49.91% |
| Obama (D) | 47.9% |
State House District 2B
- Steve Green (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Bryan Klabunde (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $20,107.45 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $24,352.85 |
45th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Steve Green (R) | 57.16% |
| David Sobieski (DFL) | 42.77% |
| State Senate District 2, 2012: | |
| Rod Skoe (DFL) | 54.92% |
| Dennis Moser (R) | 44.99% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 55.91% |
| Obama (D) | 42.06% |
State House District 3A
- Rob Ecklund (DFL) (First elected: 2015)
- Tom Long (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $19,345.15 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
80th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| David Dill (DFL) | 65.55% |
| Eric Johnson (R) | 34.21% |
| State Senate District 3, 2012: | |
| Thomas (Tom) Bakk (DFL) | 64.59% |
| Jennifer Havlick (R) | 35.24% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 55.06% |
| Romney (R) | 42.16% |
State House District 3B
- Mary Murphy (DFL) (First elected: 1976)
- Timothy Brandon (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $8,167.70 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $8,468.81 |
92nd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Mary Murphy (DFL) | 62.16% |
| Wade K. Fremling (R) | 37.72% |
| State Senate District 3, 2012: | |
| Thomas (Tom) Bakk (DFL) | 64.59% |
| Jennifer Havlick (R) | 35.24% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 59.98% |
| Romney (R) | 37.98% |
State House District 4A
- Ben Lien (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Jordan Idso (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $13,240.97 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $5,063.80 |
87th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Ben Lien (DFL) | 58.34% |
| Brian E. Gramer (R) | 41.47% |
| State Senate District 4, 2012: | |
| Kent Eken (DFL) | 52.17% |
| Phil Hansen (R) | 47.70% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 55.08% |
| Romney (R) | 42.13% |
State House District 4B
Incumbent:
- Paul Marquart (DFL) (First elected: 2000)
- Ben Grimsley (R)
Eight-term Rep. Paul Marquart holds a unique distinction: He’s the only Democratic House member still serving in a district that also voted for Mitt Romney in 2012. House Republicans picked up all of the other remaining Romney-DFL districts in 2014, which put an immediate target on Marquart’s back this year. Marquart has survived plenty of tough races in the past, but Republicans are excited about Ben Grimsley, a financial advisor from Detroit lakes who recently picked up a critical newspaper endorsement from the Fargo Forum.
| Spent to help Democrats | $34,815.94 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $227,645.66 |
18th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Paul Marquart (DFL) | 65.84% |
| Jared Laduke (R) | 34.12% |
| State Senate District 4, 2012: | |
| Kent Eken (DFL) | 52.17% |
| Phil Hansen (R) | 47.70% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 51.23% |
| Obama (D) | 46.49% |
State House District 5A
- John Persell (DFL) (First elected: 2008)
- Matt Bliss (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $35,392.35 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $172,092.46 |
21st highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| John Persell (DFL) | 55.16% |
| Phillip Nelson (R) | 44.74% |
| State Senate District 5, 2012: | |
| Tom Saxhaug (DFL) | 52.33% |
| John Carlson (R) | 47.56% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 51.82% |
| Romney (R) | 45.62% |
State House District 5B
Incumbent:
- Tom Anzelc (DFL) (First elected: 2006)
- Dennis Barsness (GP)
- Sandy Layman (R)
Last cycle, Republicans were not able to chip away at DFL Rep. Tom Anzelc's popularity in his Grand Rapids-area district. He easily held onto his seat in a tough year for the DFL. This year, they’ve recruited a well-known candidate in Sandy Layman, a former head of the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board (IRRRB). On top of that, Green Party candidate Dennis Barsness is also seeking the seat, and Republicans hope he ultimately siphons off votes from Anzelc. Republicans also say there could be a “Trump factor” in the district, as the wild card Republican nominee’s message seems to play well with disgruntled working-class voters in northern Minnesota.
| Spent to help Democrats | $108,704.07 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $246,821.43 |
14th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Tom Anzelc (DFL) | 56.54% |
| Justin Eichorn (R) | 43.33% |
| State Senate District 5, 2012: | |
| Tom Saxhaug (DFL) | 52.33% |
| John Carlson (R) | 47.56% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 49.29% |
| Romney (R) | 48.4% |
State House District 6A
- None - open seat
- Julie Sandstede (DFL)
- Robert (Rob) Farnsworth (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $47,206.79 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $19,475.87 |
36th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Carly Melin (DFL) | 69.38% |
| Roger Weber (R) | 30.39% |
| State Senate District 6, 2012: | |
| David J. Tomassoni (DFL) | 71.58% |
| Brandon D. Anderson (R) | 28.32% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 62.96% |
| Romney (R) | 34.44% |
State House District 6B
- Jason I. Metsa (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Matt Matasich (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $2,759.43 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $538.41 |
129th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jason Metsa (DFL) | 64.11% |
| Matt Matasich (R) | 35.73% |
| State Senate District 6, 2012: | |
| David J. Tomassoni (DFL) | 71.58% |
| Brandon D. Anderson (R) | 28.32% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 61.62% |
| Romney (R) | 35.78% |
State House District 7A
- Jennifer Schultz (DFL) (First elected: 2014)
- Dylan C. Raddant (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $11,177.78 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
112nd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jennifer Schultz (DFL) | 62.11% |
| Becky Hall (R) | 33.28% |
| Kristine Osbakken (GP) | 4.46% |
| State Senate District 7, 2012: | |
| Roger J. Reinert (DFL) | 76.90% |
| Tyler Verry (R) | 22.64% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 66.77% |
| Romney (R) | 30.11% |
State House District 7B
- None - open seat
- Liz Olson (DFL)
- Cody Barringer (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $18,209.91 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $332.55 |
86th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Erik Simonson (DFL) | 71.05% |
| Travis Silvers (R) | 28.64% |
| State Senate District 7, 2012: | |
| Roger J. Reinert (DFL) | 76.90% |
| Tyler Verry (R) | 22.64% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 69.65% |
| Romney (R) | 27.5% |
State House District 8A
- Bud Nornes (R) (First elected: 1996)
- C. J. Holl (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $11,280.28 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $11,739.19 |
73rd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Bud Nornes (R) | 64.69% |
| Jim Miltich (DFL) | 35.22% |
| State Senate District 8, 2012: | |
| Bill Ingebrigtsen (R) | 52.86% |
| Dan Skogen (DFL) | 47.04% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 58.9% |
| Obama (D) | 39.2% |
State House District 8B
- Mary Franson (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Gail Kulp (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $17,331.30 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $34,722.96 |
39th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Mary Franson (R) | 58.41% |
| Jay Sieling (DFL) | 41.36% |
| State Senate District 8, 2012: | |
| Bill Ingebrigtsen (R) | 52.86% |
| Dan Skogen (DFL) | 47.04% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 57.76% |
| Obama (D) | 40.08% |
State House District 9A
- None - open seat
- Megg Litts (DFL)
- John M. Poston (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $270.57 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $27,528.16 |
64th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Mark Anderson (R) | 63.89% |
| Dan Bye (DFL) | 36.02% |
| State Senate District 9, 2012: | |
| Paul Gazelka (R) | 53.65% |
| Al Doty (DFL) | 46.22% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 60.12% |
| Obama (D) | 37.47% |
State House District 9B
- Ron Kresha (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Dustin Simmonds (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $8,392.88 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $14,871.71 |
72nd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Ron Kresha (R) | 56.42% |
| Al Doty (DFL) | 43.53% |
| State Senate District 9, 2012: | |
| Paul Gazelka (R) | 53.65% |
| Al Doty (DFL) | 46.22% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 60.22% |
| Obama (D) | 37.48% |
State House District 10A
- Josh Heintzeman (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Quinn Nystrom (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $45,454.39 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $27,227.42 |
32nd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Joshua Heintzeman (R) | 53.37% |
| John Ward (DFL) | 46.54% |
| State Senate District 10, 2012: | |
| Carrie Ruud (R) | 53.88% |
| Taylor Stevenson (DFL) | 45.96% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 55.26% |
| Obama (D) | 42.52% |
State House District 10B
- Dale K Lueck (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Erin Wagner (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $46,644.06 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $21,536.32 |
35th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Dale K Lueck (R) | 51.86% |
| Joe Radinovich (DFL) | 48% |
| State Senate District 10, 2012: | |
| Carrie Ruud (R) | 53.88% |
| Taylor Stevenson (DFL) | 45.96% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 53.5% |
| Obama (D) | 44.45% |
State House District 11A
- Mike Sundin (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Mike Line (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $5,585.32 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $1,714.89 |
123rd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Mike Sundin (DFL) | 62.35% |
| Tim Hafvenstein (R) | 37.55% |
| State Senate District 11, 2012: | |
| Tony Lourey (DFL) | 64.22% |
| Bill Saumer (R) | 35.63% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 61.93% |
| Romney (R) | 35.64% |
State House District 11B
- Jason Rarick (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Tom Jones (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $43,521.78 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $16,911.22 |
38th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jason Rarick (R) | 53.67% |
| Tim Faust (DFL) | 46.15% |
| State Senate District 11, 2012: | |
| Tony Lourey (DFL) | 64.22% |
| Bill Saumer (R) | 35.63% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 50.72% |
| Obama (D) | 46.54% |
State House District 12A
Incumbent:
- Jeff Backer (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Jay McNamar (DFL)
Democrats are setting up a handful of rematches in the battle for the House this year, and that includes a do-over between GOP Rep. Jeff Backer and former DFL Rep. Jay McNamar. McNamar lost by about 700 votes in 2014, but Democrats point to his strong ties to the community. McNamara was an Elbow Lake fireman for 20 years and served as the city’s mayor. Republicans want to maintain the ground the picked up in rural Minnesota in 2014, making this a key race to watch.
| Spent to help Democrats | $193,997.87 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $259,535.51 |
9th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jeff Backer (R) | 51.85% |
| Jay Mcnamar (DFL) | 47.93% |
| State Senate District 12, 2012: | |
| Torrey Westrom (R) | 61.49% |
| John Schultz (DFL) | 38.44% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 51.51% |
| Obama (D) | 46.12% |
State House District 12B
- Paul Anderson (R) (First elected: 2008)
| Spent to help Democrats | $0.00 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $8,843.32 |
119th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Paul Anderson (R) | 67.84% |
| Gordon (Gordy) Wagner (DFL) | 32.1% |
| State Senate District 12, 2012: | |
| Torrey Westrom (R) | 61.49% |
| John Schultz (DFL) | 38.44% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 61.8% |
| Obama (D) | 36.21% |
State House District 13A
- Jeff Howe (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Anne Buckvold (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $18,321.69 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $12,262.61 |
59th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jeff Howe (R) | 60.51% |
| Emily Jensen (DFL) | 39.38% |
| State Senate District 13, 2012: | |
| Michelle Fischbach (R) | 63.53% |
| Peggy Boeck (DFL) | 36.32% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 56.89% |
| Obama (D) | 41.08% |
State House District 13B
- Tim O'Driscoll (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Matthew Crouse (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $5,893.37 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $13,022.75 |
84th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Tim O'Driscoll (R) | 97.48% |
| State Senate District 13, 2012: | |
| Michelle Fischbach (R) | 63.53% |
| Peggy Boeck (DFL) | 36.32% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 57.19% |
| Obama (D) | 40.55% |
State House District 14A
Incumbent:
- Tama Theis (R) (First elected: 2013)
- Aric Putnam (DFL)
All three races in St. Cloud area are competitive this fall, with a surprising amount of cash flowing into Rep. Tama Theis’ side of the district. It leans more conservative than the other half of the district and hasn’t been targeted in the past, but this cycle it’s in the top ten most expensive House races. Democrats think the district, which includes part of St. Cloud, Waite Park and St. Augusta, is trending blue. Her challenger is Aric Putnam, a professor at St. John's University and the College of St. Benedict.
| Spent to help Democrats | $328,522.53 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $213,722.64 |
7th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Tama Theis (R) | 54.9% |
| Dan Wolgamott (DFL) | 44.96% |
| State Senate District 14, 2012: | |
| John Pederson (R) | 52.47% |
| Jerry Mccarter (DFL) | 47.27% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 50.04% |
| Obama (D) | 47.51% |
State House District 14B
Incumbent:
- Jim Knoblach (R) (First elected: 1994)
- Zachary "Zach" Dorholt (DFL)
In St. Cloud Minnesota, incumbent GOP Rep. Jim Knoblach is in a close race that could cost House Republicans their chief budget guru. After previously serving in the House in the 1990s and early 2000s, Knoblach was re-elected to the chamber by just 60 votes votes in 2014. His previous experience in the House prompted Republicans, also newly in the majority, to place him as the powerful Ways and Means Committee chairman. But his opponent in 2014, former DFL Rep. Zachary Dorholt, is running again, and this year he’ll have boosted voter turnout at his back, especially in a town with a large public university. Expect Republicans to work hard to defend Knoblach, making this one of the most-watched — and the single most expensive — races in the House this cycle.
| Spent to help Democrats | $392,736.48 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $387,524.75 |
1st highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jim Knoblach (R) | 50.15% |
| Zachary "Zach" Dorholt (DFL) | 49.54% |
| State Senate District 14, 2012: | |
| John Pederson (R) | 52.47% |
| Jerry Mccarter (DFL) | 47.27% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 52.95% |
| Romney (R) | 43.29% |
State House District 15A
- Sondra Erickson (R) (First elected: 1998)
- Kent Lestrud (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $4,210.84 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $15,050.63 |
81st highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Sondra Erickson (R) | 63.01% |
| James Rittenour (DFL) | 36.8% |
| State Senate District 15, 2012: | |
| Dave Brown (R) | 56.55% |
| Sally Knox (DFL) | 43.31% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 55.46% |
| Obama (D) | 42.08% |
State House District 15B
- Jim Newberger (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Karla Scapanski (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $9,632.95 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $20,460.27 |
61st highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jim Newberger (R) | 63.93% |
| Brian Johnson (DFL) | 35.95% |
| State Senate District 15, 2012: | |
| Dave Brown (R) | 56.55% |
| Sally Knox (DFL) | 43.31% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 62.64% |
| Obama (D) | 34.76% |
State House District 16A
- Chris Swedzinski (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Al Kruse (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $7,714.72 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $13,533.23 |
76th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Chris Swedzinski (R) | 61.72% |
| Laurie Driessen (DFL) | 38.24% |
| State Senate District 16, 2012: | |
| Gary Dahms (R) | 53.01% |
| Ted L. Suss (DFL) | 46.87% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 52.13% |
| Obama (D) | 45.36% |
State House District 16B
- Paul Torkelson (R) (First elected: 2008)
- Austin Grossenburg (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $7,714.38 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $19,060.51 |
66th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Paul Torkelson (R) | 64.94% |
| James Kanne (DFL) | 34.95% |
| State Senate District 16, 2012: | |
| Gary Dahms (R) | 53.01% |
| Ted L. Suss (DFL) | 46.87% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 57.42% |
| Obama (D) | 39.94% |
State House District 17A
- Tim Miller (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Andrew Falk (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $58,832.34 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $76,427.98 |
24th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Tim Miller (R) | 55.37% |
| Andrew Falk (DFL) | 44.47% |
| State Senate District 17, 2012: | |
| Lyle Koenen (DFL) | 55.40% |
| Joe Gimse (R) | 44.46% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 50.72% |
| Obama (D) | 47.04% |
State House District 17B
Incumbent:
- Dave Baker (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Mary Sawatzky (DFL)
The race for a Willmar-area House seat is another rematch from 2014. Two years ago, Republican businessman and political newcomer Dave Baker beat incumbent DFL Rep. Mary Sawatzky by less than one percentage point. This year, Sawatzky is hoping to win her seat back with much higher turnout. A teacher, Sawatzky will talk about bringing the same education opportunities metro students get to rural communities. Baker stood out in his first-term as a lawmaker willing to work across party lines, authoring legislation to require doctors and physicians to track patients and what opioids they are being prescribed.
| Spent to help Democrats | $273,820.68 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $273,175.92 |
6th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Dave Baker (R) | 50.66% |
| Mary Sawatzky (DFL) | 49.27% |
| State Senate District 17, 2012: | |
| Lyle Koenen (DFL) | 55.40% |
| Joe Gimse (R) | 44.46% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 51.04% |
| Obama (D) | 46.97% |
State House District 18A
- Dean Urdahl (R) (First elected: 2002)
| Spent to help Democrats | $0.00 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $9,377.85 |
118th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Dean Urdahl (R) | 67.22% |
| Steven Schiroo (DFL) | 32.43% |
| State Senate District 18, 2012: | |
| Scott J. Newman (R) | 58.15% |
| Steven Schiroo (DFL) | 41.71% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 57.59% |
| Obama (D) | 39.63% |
State House District 18B
- Glenn Gruenhagen (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Darrel H. Mosel (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $5,728.44 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $19,924.57 |
70th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Glenn H. Gruenhagen (R) | 63.94% |
| John Lipke (DFL) | 35.88% |
| State Senate District 18, 2012: | |
| Scott J. Newman (R) | 58.15% |
| Steven Schiroo (DFL) | 41.71% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 60.41% |
| Obama (D) | 36.88% |
State House District 19A
- Clark Johnson (DFL) (First elected: 2013)
- Kim Spears (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $26,761.99 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $5,866.76 |
56th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Clark Johnson (DFL) | 54.08% |
| Kim Spears (R) | 45.78% |
| State Senate District 19, 2012: | |
| Kathy Sheran (DFL) | 97.52% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 52.25% |
| Romney (R) | 44.87% |
State House District 19B
- Jack Considine (DFL) (First elected: 2014)
- Adam Isakson (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $10,665.11 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $911.93 |
110th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jack Considine (DFL) | 55.96% |
| Dave Kruse (R) | 43.87% |
| State Senate District 19, 2012: | |
| Kathy Sheran (DFL) | 97.52% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 56.63% |
| Romney (R) | 39.62% |
State House District 20A
- Bob Vogel (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Jim Connelly (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $8,496.03 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $18,623.97 |
65th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Bob Vogel (R) | 64.29% |
| Thomas Lofgren (DFL) | 35.52% |
| State Senate District 20, 2012: | |
| Kevin L. Dahle (DFL) | 50.02% |
| Mike Dudley (R) | 49.85% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 57.5% |
| Obama (D) | 40.23% |
State House District 20B
- David Bly (DFL) (First elected: 2006)
- Aramis Wells (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $21,164.60 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $17,329.07 |
49th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| David Bly (DFL) | 57.97% |
| Dan Matejcek (R) | 41.8% |
| State Senate District 20, 2012: | |
| Kevin L. Dahle (DFL) | 50.02% |
| Mike Dudley (R) | 49.85% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 53.79% |
| Romney (R) | 43.58% |
State House District 21A
Incumbent:
- None - open seat
- Barb Haley (R)
- Lisa Bayley (DFL)
Tim Kelly fit his Red Wing House district well. He was a moderate Republican with a reputation for breaking away from his caucus, easily winning re-election after his first victory in 2008. But with his retirement from the Legislature this year, Democrats see an opportunity: The district voted for Obama over Romney in 2012, and they’ve recruited Lisa Bayley, a member of the Red Wing City Council for the last eight years. But Republicans are pretty happy with their recruit, too: Barb Haley, a lifelong Red Wing resident and businesswoman who volunteers in the community.
| Spent to help Democrats | $241,911.37 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $342,407.32 |
4th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Tim Kelly (R) | 62.17% |
| Lynn Schoen (DFL) | 37.78% |
| State Senate District 21, 2012: | |
| Matt Schmit (DFL) | 52.43% |
| John Howe (R) | 47.44% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 50.86% |
| Romney (R) | 46.8% |
State House District 21B
- Steve Drazkowski (R) (First elected: 2007)
- Elise Diesslin (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $5,210.22 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $9,398.37 |
101st highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Steve Drazkowski (R) | 63.33% |
| M.A. Schneider (DFL) | 36.38% |
| State Senate District 21, 2012: | |
| Matt Schmit (DFL) | 52.43% |
| John Howe (R) | 47.44% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 53.64% |
| Obama (D) | 43.9% |
State House District 22A
- Joe Schomacker (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Laura Woods (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $1,033.10 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $16,788.40 |
89th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Joe Schomacker (R) | 66.71% |
| Diana Slyter (DFL) | 33.21% |
| State Senate District 22, 2012: | |
| Bill Weber (R) | 52.76% |
| Alan Oberloh (DFL) | 47.11% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 56.33% |
| Obama (D) | 41.42% |
State House District 22B
- Rod Hamilton (R) (First elected: 2004)
- Kirby G. Kruse (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $10,926.41 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $9,836.65 |
77th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Rod Hamilton (R) | 66.19% |
| Cheryl Avenel-Navara (DFL) | 33.72% |
| State Senate District 22, 2012: | |
| Bill Weber (R) | 52.76% |
| Alan Oberloh (DFL) | 47.11% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 54.23% |
| Obama (D) | 43.93% |
State House District 23A
- Bob Gunther (R) (First elected: 1995)
- Zac Huntley (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $7,629.54 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $12,824.20 |
79th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Bob Gunther (R) | 61.66% |
| Pat Bacon (DFL) | 38.3% |
| State Senate District 23, 2012: | |
| Julie Ann Rosen (R) | 63.97% |
| Paul Marquardt (DFL) | 35.94% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 58.62% |
| Obama (D) | 38.94% |
State House District 23B
- Tony Cornish (R) (First elected: 2002)
- Josh Haseman (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $105,150.30 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $4,113.77 |
25th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Tony Cornish (R) | 96.11% |
| State Senate District 23, 2012: | |
| Julie Ann Rosen (R) | 63.97% |
| Paul Marquardt (DFL) | 35.94% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 50.34% |
| Obama (D) | 47.09% |
State House District 24A
- John Petersburg (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Bev Cashman (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $42,341.56 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $27,416.20 |
33rd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| John Petersburg (R) | 54.73% |
| Beverly Cashman (DFL) | 45.21% |
| State Senate District 24, 2012: | |
| Vicki Jensen (DFL) | 52.60% |
| Vern Swedin (R) | 47.23% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 51.95% |
| Obama (D) | 45.43% |
State House District 24B
Incumbent:
- Brian Daniels (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Patti Fritz (DFL)
Patti Fritz served for a decade as a moderate Democrat in her conservative-leaning Faribault House district before she was knocked off in the GOP rural wave of 2014 by Republican newcomer Brian Daniels. Daniels has a record now, after serving one term in St. Paul, and Democrats hope they can use it to bring Fritz back to St. Paul. In particular, Fritz will talk about gridlock that blocked a transportation and bonding package from passing this spring.
| Spent to help Democrats | $305,474.12 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $256,640.01 |
5th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Brian Daniels (R) | 50.85% |
| Patti Fritz (DFL) | 49.02% |
| State Senate District 24, 2012: | |
| Vicki Jensen (DFL) | 52.60% |
| Vern Swedin (R) | 47.23% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 50.44% |
| Obama (D) | 46.87% |
State House District 25A
- Duane Quam (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Linda "Wally" Walbruch (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $10,873.51 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $11,932.72 |
74th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Duane Quam (R) | 96.24% |
| State Senate District 25, 2012: | |
| David H. Senjem (R) | 53.72% |
| Judy Ohly (DFL) | 46.13% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 52.08% |
| Obama (D) | 45.03% |
State House District 25B
Incumbent:
- None - open seat
- Fran Bradley (R)
- Duane Sauke (DFL)
Kim Norton made history — in several ways — when she won her Rochester House seat back in 2006. Not only was she the first woman ever represent the district, she was also the first Democrat elected in the northern Rochester seat in decades. But she’s retiring this fall, and the big question is how much has Rochester changed since Norton was first elected. Many think it’s become more reliably Democratic since then, but Republicans want to put that assumption to the test. They’ve recruited former GOP Rep. Fran Bradley, who held the seat before Norton in 2004. Duane Sauke, a retired realtor, is running as a Democrat.
| Spent to help Democrats | $221,858.35 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $118,340.91 |
15th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Kim Norton (DFL) | 94.91% |
| State Senate District 25, 2012: | |
| David H. Senjem (R) | 53.72% |
| Judy Ohly (DFL) | 46.13% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 52.91% |
| Romney (R) | 44.31% |
State House District 26A
- Tina Liebling (DFL) (First elected: 2004)
- Will Waggoner (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $6,094.39 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $1,320.25 |
122nd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Tina Liebling (DFL) | 55.23% |
| Breanna Bly (R) | 44.67% |
| State Senate District 26, 2012: | |
| Carla Nelson (R) | 55.62% |
| Kenneth R. Moen (DFL) | 44.20% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 57.34% |
| Romney (R) | 39.57% |
State House District 26B
- Nels T. Pierson (R) (First elected: 2014)
- John Wayne Austinson (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $17,476.17 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $13,516.79 |
58th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Nels T. Pierson (R) | 59.85% |
| Rich Wright (DFL) | 40.03% |
| State Senate District 26, 2012: | |
| Carla Nelson (R) | 55.62% |
| Kenneth R. Moen (DFL) | 44.20% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 53.35% |
| Obama (D) | 44.27% |
State House District 27A
- Peggy Bennett (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Gary Schindler (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $107,734.39 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $144,519.04 |
20th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Peggy Bennett (R) | 53.04% |
| Shannon Savick (DFL) | 39.93% |
| Thomas Keith Price (IP) | 6.93% |
| State Senate District 27, 2012: | |
| Dan Sparks (DFL) | 68.22% |
| Linden Anderson (R) | 31.69% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 55.37% |
| Romney (R) | 42.15% |
State House District 27B
- Jeanne Poppe (DFL) (First elected: 2004)
- Dennis R. Schminke (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $26,465.53 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $20,755.23 |
43rd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jeanne Poppe (DFL) | 54.1% |
| Dennis Schminke (R) | 45.8% |
| State Senate District 27, 2012: | |
| Dan Sparks (DFL) | 68.22% |
| Linden Anderson (R) | 31.69% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 59.71% |
| Romney (R) | 37.7% |
State House District 28A
- Gene Pelowski Jr. (DFL) (First elected: 1986)
- Adam Pace (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $18,724.82 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
85th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Gene P Pelowski Jr (DFL) | 62.7% |
| Lynae Hahn (R) | 37.1% |
| State Senate District 28, 2012: | |
| Jeremy Miller (R) | 57.12% |
| Jack Krage (DFL) | 42.74% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 56.34% |
| Romney (R) | 40.62% |
State House District 28B
Incumbent:
- Gregory M. Davids (R) (First elected: 1991)
- Thomas Trehus (DFL)
Twelve-term Republican Rep. Greg Davids has been a target of Democrats before, but it’s been awhile since he’s seen so much outside spending in his district. As of the late October campaign finance deadline, the race for his southeastern House seat is the third most expensive in the lower chamber. This cycle, Democrats like the contrast between Davids, chair of the House Taxes Committee, and Thomas Trehus, a young candidate who serves on a local school board and moved back to the district to live on his family farm.
| Spent to help Democrats | $463,180.06 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $233,481.73 |
3rd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Gregory M. Davids (R) | 55.88% |
| Jon Pieper (DFL) | 43.96% |
| State Senate District 28, 2012: | |
| Jeremy Miller (R) | 57.12% |
| Jack Krage (DFL) | 42.74% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 51.52% |
| Romney (R) | 46.23% |
State House District 29A
- Joseph McDonald (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Cortney Phillips (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $7,598.74 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $8,682.31 |
93rd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Joe Mcdonald (R) | 96.8% |
| State Senate District 29, 2012: | |
| Bruce Anderson (R) | 60.56% |
| Brian Doran (DFL) | 39.25% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 59.95% |
| Obama (D) | 37.56% |
State House District 29B
- Marion O'Neill (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Steve Kilburn (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $4,273.45 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $6,203.88 |
115th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Marion O'Neill (R) | 96.77% |
| State Senate District 29, 2012: | |
| Bruce Anderson (R) | 60.56% |
| Brian Doran (DFL) | 39.25% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 57.25% |
| Obama (D) | 40.25% |
State House District 30A
- Nick Zerwas (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Sarah Hamlin (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $3,803.30 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $13,304.52 |
90th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Nick Zerwas (R) | 68.51% |
| Brenden Ellingboe (DFL) | 31.35% |
| State Senate District 30, 2012: | |
| Mary Kiffmeyer (R) | 62.41% |
| Paul Perovich (DFL) | 37.45% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 58.35% |
| Obama (D) | 39.45% |
State House District 30B
- Eric Lucero (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Margaret Fernandez (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $3,585.54 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $10,803.38 |
102nd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Eric Lucero (R) | 67.75% |
| Sharon G. Shimek (DFL) | 32.02% |
| State Senate District 30, 2012: | |
| Mary Kiffmeyer (R) | 62.41% |
| Paul Perovich (DFL) | 37.45% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 61.63% |
| Obama (D) | 36.4% |
State House District 31A
- Kurt Daudt (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Sarah Udvig (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $18,256.31 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $64,585.86 |
30th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Kurt Daudt (R) | 96.67% |
| State Senate District 31, 2012: | |
| Michelle Benson (R) | 58.64% |
| Mike Starr (DFL) | 41.24% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 62.2% |
| Obama (D) | 35.44% |
State House District 31B
- None - open seat
- Cal (Calvin) K. Bahr (R)
- Susan Larson (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $386.24 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $48,359.25 |
40th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Tom Hackbarth (R) | 64.47% |
| Jd Holmquist (DFL) | 35.39% |
| State Senate District 31, 2012: | |
| Michelle Benson (R) | 58.64% |
| Mike Starr (DFL) | 41.24% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 59.29% |
| Obama (D) | 38.42% |
State House District 32A
- Brian Johnson (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Paul Gammel (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $9,214.81 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $13,522.07 |
75th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Brian Johnson (R) | 57.48% |
| Paul Gammel (DFL) | 42.41% |
| State Senate District 32, 2012: | |
| Sean Nienow (R) | 54.25% |
| Jeske Noordergraaf (DFL) | 45.59% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 56.61% |
| Obama (D) | 40.89% |
State House District 32B
- Bob Barrett (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Laurie J. Warner (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $9,487.25 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $3,824.91 |
105th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Bob Barrett (R) | 55.73% |
| Laurie J. Warner (DFL) | 44.19% |
| State Senate District 32, 2012: | |
| Sean Nienow (R) | 54.25% |
| Jeske Noordergraaf (DFL) | 45.59% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 54.88% |
| Obama (D) | 42.83% |
State House District 33A
- Jerry Hertaus (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Norrie Thomas (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $18,323.94 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $7,061.49 |
71st highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jerry Hertaus (R) | 65.7% |
| Todd Mikkelson (DFL) | 34.19% |
| State Senate District 33, 2012: | |
| David Osmek (R) | 58.92% |
| Judy Rogosheske (DFL) | 40.85% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 62.26% |
| Obama (D) | 36.13% |
State House District 33B
- Cindy Pugh (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Brad Brothen (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $5,452.17 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $7,428.56 |
107th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Cindy Pugh (R) | 61.22% |
| Paul Alegi (DFL) | 38.69% |
| State Senate District 33, 2012: | |
| David Osmek (R) | 58.92% |
| Judy Rogosheske (DFL) | 40.85% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 54.54% |
| Obama (D) | 43.61% |
State House District 34A
- Joyce Peppin (R) (First elected: 2004)
- Dave Craig (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $5,127.80 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $7,022.69 |
109th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Joyce Peppin (R) | 97.05% |
| State Senate District 34, 2012: | |
| Warren Limmer (R) | 57.04% |
| Sharon Bahensky (DFL) | 42.83% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 57.94% |
| Obama (D) | 40.22% |
State House District 34B
- Dennis Smith (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Kristin Bahner (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $2,625.09 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $13,100.04 |
95th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Dennis Smith (R) | 56.36% |
| David B. Hoden (DFL) | 43.54% |
| State Senate District 34, 2012: | |
| Warren Limmer (R) | 57.04% |
| Sharon Bahensky (DFL) | 42.83% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 51.47% |
| Obama (D) | 46.66% |
State House District 35A
- Abigail Whelan (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Andy Hillebregt (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $1,504.86 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $13,993.17 |
97th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Abigail Whelan (R) | 59.95% |
| Peter Perovich (DFL) | 39.86% |
| State Senate District 35, 2012: | |
| Branden Petersen (R) | 54.21% |
| Peter Perovich (DFL) | 45.63% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 52.11% |
| Obama (D) | 45.21% |
State House District 35B
- Peggy Scott (R) (First elected: 2008)
- Wes Volkenant (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $16,390.44 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $21,166.41 |
51st highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Peggy Scott (R) | 65.97% |
| Sam Beard (DFL) | 33.94% |
| State Senate District 35, 2012: | |
| Branden Petersen (R) | 54.21% |
| Peter Perovich (DFL) | 45.63% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 57.33% |
| Obama (D) | 40.92% |
State House District 36A
- Mark W. Uglem (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Kevin Parker (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $15,872.83 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $19,248.49 |
54th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Mark W. Uglem (R) | 58.95% |
| Jefferson Fietek (DFL) | 40.92% |
| State Senate District 36, 2012: | |
| John Hoffman (DFL) | 53.10% |
| Benjamin Kruse (R) | 46.71% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 49.26% |
| Obama (D) | 48.37% |
State House District 36B
- Melissa Hortman (DFL) (First elected: 2004)
- Peter Crema (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $39,509.43 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $26,121.86 |
37th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Melissa Hortman (DFL) | 51.9% |
| Peter Crema (R) | 48% |
| State Senate District 36, 2012: | |
| John Hoffman (DFL) | 53.10% |
| Benjamin Kruse (R) | 46.71% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 53.22% |
| Romney (R) | 44.98% |
State House District 37A
- None - open seat
- Erin Koegel (DFL)
- Anthony Wilder (R)
- Brian McCormick (LIB)
| Spent to help Democrats | $36,124.40 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $52,073.22 |
26th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jerry Newton (DFL) | 52.45% |
| Mandy Benz (R) | 47.46% |
| State Senate District 37, 2012: | |
| Alice M. Johnson (DFL) | 53.23% |
| Pam Wolf (R) | 46.57% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 53.03% |
| Romney (R) | 44.3% |
State House District 37B
- None - open seat
- Nolan West (R)
- Susan Witt (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $239,567.46 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $33,524.00 |
17th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Tim Sanders (R) | 55.4% |
| Susan Witt (DFL) | 44.54% |
| State Senate District 37, 2012: | |
| Alice M. Johnson (DFL) | 53.23% |
| Pam Wolf (R) | 46.57% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 49.32% |
| Obama (D) | 48.47% |
State House District 38A
- Linda Runbeck (R) (First elected: 1989)
- Kevin Fogarty (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $4,859.84 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $15,709.84 |
78th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Linda Runbeck (R) | 62.19% |
| Pat Davern (DFL) | 37.71% |
| State Senate District 38, 2012: | |
| Roger Chamberlain (R) | 53.22% |
| Timothy Henderson (DFL) | 46.59% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 53.71% |
| Obama (D) | 44.02% |
State House District 38B
- Matt Dean (R) (First elected: 2004)
- Ami Wazlawik (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $5,187.91 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $43,286.69 |
41st highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Matt Dean (R) | 56.07% |
| Greg M. Pariseau (DFL) | 43.8% |
| State Senate District 38, 2012: | |
| Roger Chamberlain (R) | 53.22% |
| Timothy Henderson (DFL) | 46.59% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 51.82% |
| Obama (D) | 46.24% |
State House District 39A
- Bob Dettmer (R) (First elected: 2006)
- Jody W. Anderson (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $8,331.96 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $5,143.55 |
104th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Bob Dettmer (R) | 58.02% |
| Tim Stender (DFL) | 41.91% |
| State Senate District 39, 2012: | |
| Karin Housley (R) | 50.62% |
| Julie Bunn (DFL) | 49.25% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 53.08% |
| Obama (D) | 44.97% |
State House District 39B
- Kathy Lohmer (R) (First elected: 2010)
- Alan Kantrud (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $22,157.60 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $25,310.51 |
42nd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Kathy Lohmer (R) | 54.56% |
| Tom Degree (DFL) | 45.37% |
| State Senate District 39, 2012: | |
| Karin Housley (R) | 50.62% |
| Julie Bunn (DFL) | 49.25% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 50.48% |
| Obama (D) | 47.65% |
State House District 40A
- Michael Nelson (DFL) (First elected: 2002)
| Spent to help Democrats | $6,821.45 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
125th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Michael Nelson (DFL) | 64.85% |
| Charles (Chuck) Sutphen (R) | 34.94% |
| State Senate District 40, 2012: | |
| Chris Eaton (DFL) | 96.93% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 69.51% |
| Romney (R) | 28.59% |
State House District 40B
- Debra Hilstrom (DFL) (First elected: 2000)
- Mali Marvin (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $22,061.34 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $3,899.68 |
68th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Debra Hilstrom (DFL) | 67.36% |
| Mali Marvin (R) | 32.45% |
| State Senate District 40, 2012: | |
| Chris Eaton (DFL) | 96.93% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 68.36% |
| Romney (R) | 29.31% |
State House District 41A
- Connie Bernardy (DFL) (First elected: 2001)
- Ryan Evanson (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $11,286.88 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
111st highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Connie Bernardy (DFL) | 60.16% |
| Jeff Phillips (R) | 39.68% |
| State Senate District 41, 2012: | |
| Barb Goodwin (DFL) | 62.82% |
| Gina Bauman (R) | 36.95% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 59.35% |
| Romney (R) | 38.2% |
State House District 41B
- None - open seat
- Mary Kunesh-Podein (DFL)
- Camden J. Pike (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $9,402.45 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $4,795.35 |
103rd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Carolyn Laine (DFL) | 57.38% |
| Camden Pike (R) | 29.29% |
| Tim Utz (CP) | 13.27% |
| State Senate District 41, 2012: | |
| Barb Goodwin (DFL) | 62.82% |
| Gina Bauman (R) | 36.95% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 62.06% |
| Romney (R) | 35.18% |
State House District 42A
- Barb Yarusso (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Randy Jessup (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $72,249.65 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $116,991.31 |
22nd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Barb Yarusso (DFL) | 50.55% |
| Randy Jessup (R) | 49.28% |
| State Senate District 42, 2012: | |
| Bev Scalze (DFL) | 55.57% |
| April King (R) | 44.27% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 51.29% |
| Romney (R) | 46.33% |
State House District 42B
- None - open seat
- Jamie Becker-Finn (DFL)
- Tracy Nelson (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $32,118.02 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $7,345.61 |
48th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jason "Ike" Isaacson (DFL) | 52.3% |
| Heidi Gunderson (R) | 47.55% |
| State Senate District 42, 2012: | |
| Bev Scalze (DFL) | 55.57% |
| April King (R) | 44.27% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 56.59% |
| Romney (R) | 41.16% |
State House District 43A
- Peter M Fischer (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Bob Cardinal (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $24,605.25 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $13,527.45 |
50th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Peter M Fischer (DFL) | 50.64% |
| Stacey Stout (R) | 49.14% |
| State Senate District 43, 2012: | |
| Charles "Chuck" Wiger (DFL) | 62.25% |
| Duane E. (Swede) Johnson (R) | 37.53% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 56.36% |
| Romney (R) | 41.81% |
State House District 43B
- Leon M. Lillie (DFL) (First elected: 2004)
- Nathan Hansen (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $345.00 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
133rd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Leon M. Lillie (DFL) | 58.08% |
| Justice B. Whitethorn (R) | 41.75% |
| State Senate District 43, 2012: | |
| Charles "Chuck" Wiger (DFL) | 62.25% |
| Duane E. (Swede) Johnson (R) | 37.53% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 57.28% |
| Romney (R) | 40.17% |
State House District 44A
Incumbent:
- Sarah Anderson (R) (First elected: 2006)
- Ginny Klevorn (DFL)
Republican Rep. Sarah Anderson has fended off plenty of challenges from Democrats in her Plymouth-area house district over the years, but this time they’re taking her on with an intense, late-in the game spending blitz, one that suggests they see more openings in Minnesota’s suburbs this cycle. Anderson has denounced Trump and said she doesn’t plan to vote for him this cycle after the “Access Hollywood” comments were released. Her challenger, Ginny Klevorn, is a mediator who lives in Plymouth and volunteers at the area church.
| Spent to help Democrats | $238,565.96 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $168,737.91 |
11th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Sarah Anderson (R) | 55.51% |
| Audrey Britton (DFL) | 44.43% |
| State Senate District 44, 2012: | |
| Terri Bonoff (DFL) | 55.81% |
| David Gaither (R) | 44.04% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 50.56% |
| Obama (D) | 47.89% |
State House District 44B
- Jon Applebaum (DFL) (First elected: 2014)
- Patti Meier (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $54,659.94 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $13,786.41 |
34th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jon Applebaum (DFL) | 51.3% |
| Ryan Rutzick (R) | 48.46% |
| State Senate District 44, 2012: | |
| Terri Bonoff (DFL) | 55.81% |
| David Gaither (R) | 44.04% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 54.24% |
| Romney (R) | 44.18% |
State House District 45A
- Lyndon R. Carlson (DFL) (First elected: 1972)
- Richard Lieberman (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $25,289.38 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $11,150.76 |
52nd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Lyndon R. Carlson (DFL) | 56.52% |
| Richard Lieberman (R) | 43.28% |
| State Senate District 45, 2012: | |
| Ann H. Rest (DFL) | 65.45% |
| Blair Tremere (R) | 34.40% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 59.01% |
| Romney (R) | 38.62% |
State House District 45B
- Mike Freiberg (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Alma J. Wetzker (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $14,612.85 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $972.99 |
96th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Mike Freiberg (DFL) | 66.94% |
| Alma J. Wetzker (R) | 32.89% |
| State Senate District 45, 2012: | |
| Ann H. Rest (DFL) | 65.45% |
| Blair Tremere (R) | 34.40% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 63.19% |
| Romney (R) | 34.23% |
State House District 46A
- Peggy Flanagan (DFL) (First elected: 2015)
- Anne Taylor (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $19,126.67 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
82nd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Ryan Winkler (DFL) | 66.17% |
| Timothy O. Manthey (R) | 33.66% |
| State Senate District 46, 2012: | |
| Ron Latz (DFL) | 66.82% |
| Paul Scofield (R) | 32.97% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 64.12% |
| Romney (R) | 33.56% |
State House District 46B
- Cheryl Youakim (DFL) (First elected: 2014)
- Bryan P. Björnson (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $15,333.92 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $100.00 |
98th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Cheryl Youakim (DFL) | 68.5% |
| Bryan P. Björnson (R) | 31.3% |
| State Senate District 46, 2012: | |
| Ron Latz (DFL) | 66.82% |
| Paul Scofield (R) | 32.97% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 65.55% |
| Romney (R) | 31.9% |
State House District 47A
- Jim Nash (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Sean White (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $3,445.99 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $22,443.52 |
69th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jim Nash (R) | 67.63% |
| Matthew W. Gieseke (DFL) | 32.08% |
| State Senate District 47, 2012: | |
| Julianne Ortman (R) | 63.76% |
| James F. Weygand (DFL) | 35.96% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 62.89% |
| Obama (D) | 35.22% |
State House District 47B
- Joe Hoppe (R) (First elected: 2002)
- Jane Montemayor (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $1,202.28 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $60.00 |
132nd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Joe Hoppe (R) | 97.18% |
| State Senate District 47, 2012: | |
| Julianne Ortman (R) | 63.76% |
| James F. Weygand (DFL) | 35.96% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 56.02% |
| Obama (D) | 42.04% |
State House District 48A
Incumbent:
- None - open seat
- Mary Shapiro (R)
- Laurie Pryor (DFL)
This Minnetonka-area House seat might be the most competitive seat in the state. No matter what the electoral situation is — a presidential year or an off year — the race is always decided by just a handful of votes. DFL Rep. Yvonne Selcer won it by just 1 percentage point back in 2012 and held on to it by even less in 2014 — 41 votes. With Selcer retiring this year, it makes the seat even more competitive. Republican Mary Shapiro, a former Minneapolis School teacher, will go up against Laurie Pryor, a longtime DFL activist in the district.
| Spent to help Democrats | $257,875.93 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $236,187.74 |
8th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Yvonne Selcer (DFL) | 50.04% |
| Kirk Stensrud (R) | 49.83% |
| State Senate District 48, 2012: | |
| David Hann (R) | 51.32% |
| Laurie Mckendry (DFL) | 48.58% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 52.0% |
| Romney (R) | 46.07% |
State House District 48B
- Jenifer W. Loon (R) (First elected: 2008)
- Ben Sherlock (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $6,790.31 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $9,321.97 |
94th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jenifer Loon (R) | 64.42% |
| Joan Howe-Pullis (DFL) | 35.43% |
| State Senate District 48, 2012: | |
| David Hann (R) | 51.32% |
| Laurie Mckendry (DFL) | 48.58% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 51.58% |
| Obama (D) | 46.62% |
State House District 49A
Incumbent:
- Ron Erhardt (DFL) (First elected: 1990)
- Dario Anselmo (R)
The race for an Edina seat in the state House features a rematch, DFL Rep. Ron Erhardt versus Republican challenger Dario Anselmo. In 2014, Anselmo came within 3 points of knocking off Erhardt. Conventional wisdom would suggest the incumbent will hold onto his seat in presidential year, when turnout is higher, but Republicans have launched an effective ad campaign against him. They’ve spent tens of thousands of dollars on a television ad and mailers featuring a woman who was part of an effort in 2015 to expand the state’s sexual assault laws to include bodily fluids after a co-worker ejaculated into her coffee cup. While legislators debated the issue on the House floor, Erhardt joked and licked a coffee cup as he addressed other lawmakers.
| Spent to help Democrats | $94,475.86 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $229,904.82 |
16th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Ron Erhardt (DFL) | 51.38% |
| Dario Anselmo (R) | 48.55% |
| State Senate District 49, 2012: | |
| Melisa Franzen (DFL) | 52.74% |
| Keith Downey (R) | 47.15% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 52.2% |
| Romney (R) | 46.6% |
State House District 49B
- Paul Rosenthal (DFL) (First elected: 2008)
- Max Rymer (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $24,312.96 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $62,479.87 |
28th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Paul Rosenthal (DFL) | 52.8% |
| Barb Sutter (R) | 47.11% |
| State Senate District 49, 2012: | |
| Melisa Franzen (DFL) | 52.74% |
| Keith Downey (R) | 47.15% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 52.33% |
| Romney (R) | 46.08% |
State House District 50A
- Linda Slocum (DFL) (First elected: 2006)
- Tim Johnson (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $8,631.24 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
120th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Linda Slocum (DFL) | 64.72% |
| Dean Mumbleau (R) | 35.11% |
| State Senate District 50, 2012: | |
| Melissa Halvorson Wiklund (DFL) | 60.85% |
| Vern Wilcox (R) | 38.95% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 63.56% |
| Romney (R) | 33.85% |
State House District 50B
Incumbent:
- Chad Anderson (R) (First elected: 2016)
- Andrew Carlson (DFL)
The Bloomington House seat was long held by Democrats until February, when Republican newcomer Chad Anderson beat Bloomington City Council Member Andrew Carlson in a special election. That election was a sprint with a fair amount of outside campaigning from Republicans, who highlighted a vote on the council from Carlson to impose new regulations on garbage collection in Bloomington. Republicans said the victory was a sign they can play in Minnesota’s suburbs this fall, but Democrats expect it was a low-turnout special election fluke and, on paper, this looks a clear pick up opportunity for Democrats.
| Spent to help Democrats | $54,273.60 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $103,136.69 |
23rd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Ann Lenczewski (DFL) | 65.6% |
| Zavier Bicott (R) | 34.24% |
| State Senate District 50, 2012: | |
| Melissa Halvorson Wiklund (DFL) | 60.85% |
| Vern Wilcox (R) | 38.95% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 56.78% |
| Romney (R) | 40.87% |
State House District 51A
- Sandra Masin (DFL) (First elected: 2006)
- Brad Gerten (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $25,358.61 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $4,881.96 |
60th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Sandra Masin (DFL) | 51.47% |
| Andrea Todd-Harlin (R) | 48.34% |
| State Senate District 51, 2012: | |
| Jim Carlson (DFL) | 53.09% |
| Ted Daley (R) | 46.73% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 55.33% |
| Romney (R) | 42.27% |
State House District 51B
- Laurie Halverson (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Pat Hammond (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $42,609.50 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $3,447.18 |
44th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Laurie Halverson (DFL) | 51.09% |
| Jen Wilson (R) | 48.8% |
| State Senate District 51, 2012: | |
| Jim Carlson (DFL) | 53.09% |
| Ted Daley (R) | 46.73% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 51.29% |
| Romney (R) | 46.65% |
State House District 52A
- Rick Hansen (DFL) (First elected: 2004)
- Larry Sachi (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $18,292.99 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
88th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Rick Hansen (DFL) | 59.38% |
| Joe Blum (R) | 40.46% |
| State Senate District 52, 2012: | |
| James Metzen (DFL) | 62.00% |
| Dwight Rabuse (R) | 37.78% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 58.52% |
| Romney (R) | 39.18% |
State House District 52B
- None - open seat
- Mary T'Kach (DFL)
- Regina Barr (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $89,924.13 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $166,884.79 |
19th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Joe Atkins (DFL) | 64.47% |
| Don Lee (R) | 35.45% |
| State Senate District 52, 2012: | |
| James Metzen (DFL) | 62.00% |
| Dwight Rabuse (R) | 37.78% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 52.71% |
| Romney (R) | 45.2% |
State House District 53A
- JoAnn Ward (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Andy Turonie (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $22,974.69 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $5,407.56 |
63rd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Joann Ward (DFL) | 58.36% |
| Lukas Czech (R) | 41.47% |
| State Senate District 53, 2012: | |
| Susan Kent (DFL) | 52.13% |
| Ted Lillie (R) | 47.73% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 56.44% |
| Romney (R) | 41.45% |
State House District 53B
- Kelly Fenton (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Alberder Gillespie (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $35,274.85 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $46,727.34 |
31st highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Kelly Fenton (R) | 56.93% |
| Kay Hendrikson (DFL) | 42.96% |
| State Senate District 53, 2012: | |
| Susan Kent (DFL) | 52.13% |
| Ted Lillie (R) | 47.73% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 51.82% |
| Obama (D) | 46.66% |
State House District 54A
- None - open seat
- Keith Franke (R)
- Jen Peterson (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $23,761.57 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $12,022.96 |
53rd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Dan Schoen (DFL) | 55.52% |
| Matthew Kowalski (R) | 44.35% |
| State Senate District 54, 2012: | |
| Katie Sieben (DFL) | 63.80% |
| Janis Quinlan (R) | 36.05% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 55.63% |
| Romney (R) | 41.57% |
State House District 54B
Incumbent:
- None - open seat
- Don Slaten (DFL)
- Tony Jurgens (R)
Republican Rep. Denny McNamara’s retirement from his eastern suburban House seat has sent both sides rushing to the district with resources. Republicans want to hold on to the swing district, especially as they cede more ground in the suburbs. Democrats see it as a possible pick up, and they’ve recruited candidate Don Slaten, a youth coach and member of a local machinist union. Republicans are running Tony Jurgens, an insurance agent living in the district.
| Spent to help Democrats | $189,808.51 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $213,109.72 |
13th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Denny Mcnamara (R) | 60.54% |
| Donald Slaten (DFL) | 39.32% |
| State Senate District 54, 2012: | |
| Katie Sieben (DFL) | 63.80% |
| Janis Quinlan (R) | 36.05% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 49.15% |
| Romney (R) | 48.57% |
State House District 55A
- Bob Loonan (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Mary Hernandez (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $931.76 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $1,687.72 |
130th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Bob Loonan (R) | 56.75% |
| Jay C. Whiting (DFL) | 38.76% |
| Derek Thury (IP) | 4.41% |
| State Senate District 55, 2012: | |
| Eric Pratt (R) | 55.11% |
| Kathy Busch (DFL) | 44.75% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 51.5% |
| Obama (D) | 46.04% |
State House District 55B
- Tony Albright (R) (First elected: 2012)
- Cecilia Haakenson (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $9,513.81 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $2,674.51 |
108th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Tony Albright (R) | 61% |
| Kevin Burkart (DFL) | 35.65% |
| Josh D. Ondich (IP) | 3.33% |
| State Senate District 55, 2012: | |
| Eric Pratt (R) | 55.11% |
| Kathy Busch (DFL) | 44.75% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 59.97% |
| Obama (D) | 37.99% |
State House District 56A
- Drew Christensen (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Jared Christiansen (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $4,323.16 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $10,363.24 |
100th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Drew Christensen (R) | 55.81% |
| Dan Kimmel (DFL) | 44.01% |
| State Senate District 56, 2012: | |
| Dan Hall (R) | 53.92% |
| Leon Thurman (DFL) | 45.90% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 50.66% |
| Obama (D) | 47.09% |
State House District 56B
Incumbent:
- Roz Peterson (R) (First elected: 2014)
- Lindsey Port (DFL)
Roz Peterson ran twice before she secured her place in the Minnesota House, representing parts of Burnsville and Lakeville. Her victory in 2014 was the only Republican gain made in the suburbs. This year, she’s fighting a DFL wave taking over the region, possibly for good. She’s also going up against Lindsey Port, a favorite among DFL recruits this year, who lives and owns a small business in Burnsville.
| Spent to help Democrats | $296,412.90 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $423,091.86 |
2nd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Roz Peterson (R) | 53.99% |
| Will Morgan (DFL) | 45.83% |
| State Senate District 56, 2012: | |
| Dan Hall (R) | 53.92% |
| Leon Thurman (DFL) | 45.90% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 49.07% |
| Romney (R) | 48.78% |
State House District 57A
Incumbent:
- None - open seat
- Erin Maye Quade (DFL)
- Ali Jimenez-Hopper (R)
The retirement of four-term Republican Rep. Tara Mack has turned her Apple Valley House District into one of the most competitive races in the 2016 cycle. The district voted for Obama in 2012, and Democrats hope it’s ripe for the pickup without an incumbent on the ballot. They’ve recruited U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison staffer Erin Maye Quade to run against Republican Ali Jimenez-Hopper, who grew up and raised her family in the district.
| Spent to help Democrats | $272,827.17 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $148,055.15 |
10th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Tara Mack (R) | 58.44% |
| Bruce Folken (DFL) | 41.52% |
| State Senate District 57, 2012: | |
| Greg Clausen (DFL) | 54.09% |
| Pat Hall (R) | 45.73% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 50.67% |
| Romney (R) | 47.17% |
State House District 57B
- Anna Wills (R) (First elected: 2012)
- John Huot (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $221,170.86 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $185,631.39 |
12th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Anna Wills (R) | 58.4% |
| Denise Packard (DFL) | 41.53% |
| State Senate District 57, 2012: | |
| Greg Clausen (DFL) | 54.09% |
| Pat Hall (R) | 45.73% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 49.51% |
| Obama (D) | 48.62% |
State House District 58A
- Jon Koznick (R) (First elected: 2014)
- LeAnn Weikle (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $12,914.52 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $19,144.49 |
57th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jon Koznick (R) | 55.28% |
| Amy Willingham (DFL) | 44.63% |
| State Senate District 58, 2012: | |
| Dave Thompson (R) | 57.60% |
| Andrew Brobston (DFL) | 42.28% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 55.86% |
| Obama (D) | 42.12% |
State House District 58B
- Patrick Garofalo (R) (First elected: 2004)
- Marla Vagts (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $8,925.77 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $7,718.33 |
91st highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Pat Garofalo (R) | 63.85% |
| Marla Vagts (DFL) | 36.02% |
| State Senate District 58, 2012: | |
| Dave Thompson (R) | 57.60% |
| Andrew Brobston (DFL) | 42.28% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Romney (R) | 55.58% |
| Obama (D) | 42.35% |
State House District 59A
- None - open seat
- Fue Lee (DFL)
- Jessica Newville (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $38,090.15 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $3,849.37 |
47th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Joe Mullery (DFL) | 81.98% |
| Fred Statema (R) | 17.24% |
| State Senate District 59, 2012: | |
| Bobby Joe Champion (DFL) | 82.02% |
| Jim Lilly (R) | 17.54% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 83.9% |
| Romney (R) | 13.91% |
State House District 59B
- Raymond Dehn (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
- Margaret E. Martín (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $5,150.90 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $2,764.46 |
121st highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Raymond Dehn (DFL) | 78.1% |
| Margaret E. Martin (R) | 21.42% |
| State Senate District 59, 2012: | |
| Bobby Joe Champion (DFL) | 82.02% |
| Jim Lilly (R) | 17.54% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 80.37% |
| Romney (R) | 17.17% |
State House District 60A
- Diane Loeffler (DFL) (First elected: 2004)
- Gabe Barnett (IPL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $5,194.29 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
126th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Diane Loeffler (DFL) | 82.42% |
| Brent Millsop (R) | 17.24% |
| State Senate District 60, 2012: | |
| Kari Dziedzic (DFL) | 77.06% |
| Mark Lazarchic (R) | 17.00% |
| Rahn V. Workcuff (IP) | 5.52% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 77.1% |
| Romney (R) | 18.52% |
State House District 60B
- None - open seat
- Abdimalik Askar (R)
- Ilhan Omar (DFL)
| Spent to help Democrats | $83,955.50 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
29th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Phyllis Kahn (DFL) | 76.89% |
| Abdimalik Askar (R) | 22.34% |
| State Senate District 60, 2012: | |
| Kari Dziedzic (DFL) | 77.06% |
| Mark Lazarchic (R) | 17.00% |
| Rahn V. Workcuff (IP) | 5.52% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 75.94% |
| Romney (R) | 19.18% |
State House District 61A
- Frank Hornstein (DFL) (First elected: 2002)
- Brian Rosenblatt (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $4,443.29 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $367.15 |
127th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Frank Hornstein (DFL) | 80.79% |
| Frank Taylor (R) | 18.96% |
| State Senate District 61, 2012: | |
| Scott Dibble (DFL) | 98.08% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 77.98% |
| Romney (R) | 19.33% |
State House District 61B
- Paul Thissen (DFL) (First elected: 2002)
- Tom Gallagher (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $26,535.98 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
67th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Paul Thissen (DFL) | 80.94% |
| Tom Gallagher (R) | 18.92% |
| State Senate District 61, 2012: | |
| Scott Dibble (DFL) | 98.08% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 77.96% |
| Romney (R) | 19.89% |
State House District 62A
- Karen Clark (DFL) (First elected: 1980)
- Claire Leiter (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $4,642.17 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $76.07 |
128th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Karen Clark (DFL) | 82.13% |
| Yolandita Colón (IP) | 9.57% |
| Bruce Lundeen (R) | 8.05% |
| State Senate District 62, 2012: | |
| Jeff Hayden (DFL) | 86.84% |
| Eric Blair (IP) | 12.70% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 86.19% |
| Romney (R) | 9.21% |
State House District 62B
- Susan Allen (DFL) (First elected: 2012)
| Spent to help Democrats | $254.43 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
134th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Susan Allen (DFL) | 88.66% |
| Julie Hanson (R) | 10.93% |
| State Senate District 62, 2012: | |
| Jeff Hayden (DFL) | 86.84% |
| Eric Blair (IP) | 12.70% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 86.59% |
| Romney (R) | 10.06% |
State House District 63A
- Jim Davnie (DFL) (First elected: 2000)
- Kyle Bragg (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $9,310.70 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $729.19 |
116th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jim Davnie (DFL) | 86.44% |
| Kyle Bragg (R) | 13.21% |
| State Senate District 63, 2012: | |
| Patricia Torres Ray (DFL) | 80.81% |
| Patrick Marron (R) | 18.93% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 82.59% |
| Romney (R) | 14.28% |
State House District 63B
- Jean Wagenius (DFL) (First elected: 1986)
- Frank Pafko (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $10,508.94 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
114th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Jean Wagenius (DFL) | 75.06% |
| Andres Hortillosa (R) | 24.64% |
| State Senate District 63, 2012: | |
| Patricia Torres Ray (DFL) | 80.81% |
| Patrick Marron (R) | 18.93% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 73.61% |
| Romney (R) | 23.92% |
State House District 64A
- Erin Murphy (DFL) (First elected: 2006)
- Riley Horan (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $26,286.64 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $3,418.89 |
62nd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Erin Murphy (DFL) | 81.21% |
| Andrew Brown (R) | 18.52% |
| State Senate District 64, 2012: | |
| Dick Cohen (DFL) | 69.67% |
| Sharon Anderson (R) | 19.14% |
| Scott Larson (IND) | 10.97% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 76.6% |
| Romney (R) | 20.22% |
State House District 64B
- Dave Pinto (DFL) (First elected: 2014)
- Emory K. Dively (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $18,749.35 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $282.61 |
83rd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Dave Pinto (DFL) | 73.49% |
| Daniel Surman (R) | 26.25% |
| State Senate District 64, 2012: | |
| Dick Cohen (DFL) | 69.67% |
| Sharon Anderson (R) | 19.14% |
| Scott Larson (IND) | 10.97% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 70.4% |
| Romney (R) | 27.28% |
State House District 65A
- Rena Moran (DFL) (First elected: 2010)
- Monique Giordana (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $31,386.73 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $2,676.64 |
55th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Rena Moran (DFL) | 71.2% |
| Anthony Meschke (R) | 14.59% |
| Lena Buggs (GP) | 14.06% |
| State Senate District 65, 2012: | |
| Sandy Pappas (DFL) | 81.72% |
| Rick Karschnia (R) | 17.91% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 83.44% |
| Romney (R) | 13.71% |
State House District 65B
- Carlos Mariani (DFL) (First elected: 1990)
- Margaret Mary Stokely (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $7,205.18 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
124th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Carlos Mariani (DFL) | 77.54% |
| Anthony "Tony" Athen (R) | 21.91% |
| State Senate District 65, 2012: | |
| Sandy Pappas (DFL) | 81.72% |
| Rick Karschnia (R) | 17.91% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 77.18% |
| Romney (R) | 19.59% |
State House District 66A
- Alice Hausman (DFL) (First elected: 1989)
- Jon Heyer (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $7,560.70 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $3,553.19 |
113rd highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Alice Hausman (DFL) | 67.09% |
| Jon Heyer (R) | 32.76% |
| State Senate District 66, 2012: | |
| John Marty (DFL) | 73.82% |
| Wayde Brooks (R) | 25.87% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 65.69% |
| Romney (R) | 31.8% |
State House District 66B
- John Lesch (DFL) (First elected: 2002)
- William P. Brownell (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $1,779.36 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $0.00 |
131st highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| John Lesch (DFL) | 76.41% |
| Lizz Paulson (R) | 23.06% |
| State Senate District 66, 2012: | |
| John Marty (DFL) | 73.82% |
| Wayde Brooks (R) | 25.87% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 78.5% |
| Romney (R) | 18.81% |
State House District 67A
- Tim Mahoney (DFL) (First elected: 1998)
- Andrew Livingston (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $12,690.14 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $348.41 |
106th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Tim Mahoney (DFL) | 72.43% |
| Andrew Livingston (R) | 27.26% |
| State Senate District 67, 2012: | |
| Foung Hawj (DFL) | 72.46% |
| Mike Capistrant (R) | 27.11% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 75.76% |
| Romney (R) | 21.7% |
State House District 67B
- Sheldon Johnson (DFL) (First elected: 2000)
- Joseph Weverka (LIB)
- Lisa Thompson (R)
| Spent to help Democrats | $4,506.35 |
| Spent to help Republicans | $5,066.75 |
117th highest spending of all House districts.
| This district, 2014: | |
| Sheldon Johnson (DFL) | 72.82% |
| John T. Quinn (R) | 26.79% |
| State Senate District 67, 2012: | |
| Foung Hawj (DFL) | 72.46% |
| Mike Capistrant (R) | 27.11% |
| President, 2012: | |
| Obama (D) | 74.46% |
| Romney (R) | 22.91% |
Comments (4)
HD 4B
The one and only reason why the Fargo Forum did not endorse Paul Marquardt was his opposition to the Red River diversion. One could see the steam rising from the computer screen. It was borderline breathtaking in its hostility towards Rep. Marquardt.
http://www.inforum.com/opinion/editorials/4146218-forum-editorial-marquart-no-lien-eken-yes
District 47 is in the bag for Rep. Newton (soon to be Senator)
Outspent $295,000 to $30,000, the GOP sacrificial lamb has no chance. The amount of money spent on behalf of Rep. Newton’s future replacement must be nearly the same. Again, her opponent has no chance, especially given the negative DFL mailers that are flooding the mailboxes along with Rep. Newton’s. Big Money is alive and well in Minnesota, wielded by the DFL so nobody really complains much.
Well, the personal bankrupcy….
…didn’t help challenger Brad Sanford’s pitch to put a businessman in the job.
44A The biggest no-surprise suprise upset
Let’s compare apples to apples. Look at the 2012 (last presidential election year) not 2014. This reveals a much different, more meaningful story. 2012 was a decent year for the DFL; 2014 was a horrible year for the DFL – that’s when the House flipped to the GOP. Compare 2012 to 2016, presidential year to presidential year. In 2012 Rep. Sarah Anderson (R-44A) only won by about 700 votes. In 2012, the party and interest groups did not spend any money on the race. Now, it’s another presidential year and this time the DFL and special interest groups are spending $100,000s on this race. Will it gain the 700 votes the DFL was missing in 2012? Could be.