Five candidates are vying to become St. Paul’s next mayor in the November 4, 2025, election. Incumbent Mayor Melvin Carter, who has led the city since 2018, is seeking a third term. He faces challenges from State Representative Kaohly Her, scientist and business owner Yan Chen, professional engineer Adam Dullinger, and longtime small business owner Mike Hilborn.
Mayor Melvin Carter, 46, says his deep roots in St. Paul and eight years of leadership through major challenges—including COVID-19, civil unrest, and a cyberattack—make him ready for another term. His priorities include creating affordable housing, revitalizing downtown, and advancing community-focused public safety. Carter emphasizes collaboration and believes government’s role is to unite people and invest in what individuals can’t do alone.
Yan Chen, 55, brings a background as a scientist, mother, immigrant, and business owner. She says her experience finding practical solutions and investing in people qualifies her to lead. Chen’s main focus is keeping city taxes steady, improving safety, and building long-term housing opportunities. She envisions government as a fair, transparent partner that helps people succeed without overreach, adding that leaders must create an environment where differing opinions are valued.
Adam Dullinger, 29, is a professional engineer who prides himself on solving complex problems. He says his analytical skills and passion for practical solutions prepare him to serve effectively. His top priorities are affordability, addressing climate change, and improving public safety. Dullinger believes government should provide reliable services and infrastructure while always putting citizens’ needs first. He values respectful debate and views disagreements as opportunities to learn and grow.
State Representative Kaohly Her, 52, says her seven years in the legislature and background in finance, education, and nonprofit leadership equip her to solve problems across sectors. Her priorities are building a stronger economy, ensuring safe neighborhoods, expanding affordable housing, and protecting immigrant communities. She wants to diversify city revenue beyond taxes, improve transparency in budgeting, and strengthen collaboration with other levels of government. Known for her consensus-building approach, Her emphasizes listening, inclusivity, and proactive leadership.
Mike Hilborn, 62, has run a small business in St. Paul for 30 years. He says his experience managing budgets and solving problems in the private sector gives him the skills to lead efficiently. Hilborn’s campaign centers on lowering taxes, reducing crime, and addressing homelessness. He believes the government’s main role is to protect citizens at the lowest cost to taxpayers and stresses the need for more open, honest conversations among residents and leaders.
St. Paul voters can learn more about these candidates and find election details at twincities.com/news/politics/elections or by visiting the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website at sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting to check their ballots and polling places.
