Xp Lee Wins Minnesota Special Election, House Returns to 67-67 Tie

Lead Democrat Xp Lee narrowly defeated Republican Ruth Bittner Tuesday in Minnesota’s District 34B special election, restoring a 67-67 split in the State House after replacing slain Rep. Melissa Hortman.

Nut Graf Lee’s victory sustains the existing power-sharing agreement in the tightly divided Minnesota Legislature and sets the stage for an anticipated special session on gun control called by Governor Tim Walz.

Key Results

• Xp Lee: 60.82% (4,331 votes)
• Ruth Bittner: 39.11% (2,785 votes)
• Voter turnout: 26,596 registered voters

Background District 34B, encompassing parts of Brooklyn Park, Champlin and Coon Rapids, was left vacant when former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband were fatally shot at their home in June in what authorities describe as a politically motivated assassination. Vance Boelter, charged in both attacks, has pleaded not guilty.

Implications With the House evenly divided, bipartisan cooperation remains necessary under the existing power-sharing deal. Democrats and Republicans must jointly negotiate committee leadership and legislative agendas, including Walz’s push for new gun restrictions following recent high-profile shootings.

Next Steps Election results will be certified by the state canvassing board on September 19, with recounts available upon request. Lee will serve the remainder of Hortman’s term through 2026.