Rep.-elect Xp Lee has won the special election for Minnesota’s House District 34B, filling the seat left vacant after the tragic death of former Minnesota House Speaker Emeritus Melissa Hortman earlier this year. Hortman and her husband Mark were killed in June, an event that shook the state and left Minnesotans mourning the loss of one of their most respected political leaders.
Lee, who previously served as a Brooklyn Park City Councilmember, ran on a platform focused on education, affordable health care, and economic opportunity. His victory has been welcomed as both a continuation of Hortman’s legacy and a sign of Democratic momentum across Minnesota.
In response to the election results, Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin offered warm congratulations to Lee. He emphasized that Lee’s priorities reflect Hortman’s values and service to Minnesotans. Martin also addressed the painful context of the election, speaking strongly against political violence, which has claimed far too many lives across the country. “Enough is enough,” Martin said. “It must end now. And in every case, each of us has a responsibility to condemn and reject political violence wherever it rears its head.”
Martin added that he had seen Lee’s leadership firsthand during his time on the Brooklyn Park City Council and expressed confidence that he would bring that same dedication to the state legislature. He described Lee as a leader committed to serving his district and carrying forward the legacy of Hortman, whom he called “a dear friend” and “a leader who worked tirelessly for all Minnesotans.”
Minnesota DFL Chair Richard Carlblom also celebrated the election results, calling Lee’s victory proof of the growing strength of Democrats both in the state and nationwide. He praised Lee as someone who would continue Hortman’s tradition of public service, leadership, and compassion. Carlblom noted that Democrats have been consistently performing well in elections since 2016, including two earlier special elections in Minnesota this year.
He pointed to a broader pattern of Democratic wins across the country in 2025, with candidates either outperforming their 2024 margins or winning in 42 out of 43 key races so far. Carlblom said the party is “fired up and ready” to continue that success into the 2026 elections.
Lee’s victory has been widely seen as both personal and political. For the people of District 34B, it ensures strong representation following a painful loss. For Democrats, it highlights the energy and resilience of their movement, even in the face of tragedy.
The special election also underscored the importance of civic engagement and the responsibility of elected officials to serve with compassion and dedication. Hortman, who had served Minnesota with distinction for many years, left behind a powerful legacy that both Martin and Carlblom said Lee is well-suited to continue.
As he prepares to take office, Rep.-elect Xp Lee faces the challenge of stepping into a role defined by tragedy but also filled with opportunity. His leadership will be measured not only by policy but by his ability to help his community heal and move forward. Supporters say his commitment to education, health care, and good-paying jobs reflects both his personal values and the priorities of his district.
The election results in District 34B carry a message that resonates beyond Minnesota: communities can come together to honor legacies, reject violence, and continue building a future rooted in service and hope.
