Brooklyn Park Council Member To Run for Late Rep. Hortman’s House Seat

Rep. Melissa Hortman (DFL-Brooklyn Park) and her husband Mark were killed about three weeks ago in what prosecutors say was a targeted attack on lawmakers.

Her assassination rattled the Brooklyn Park community and has left an empty seat in the House of Representatives.

Now, a Brooklyn Park City Council member has announced he’s running for her empty House District 34B seat.

“I know in our communities, this seat will endure as ‘Melissa’s Seat,'” wrote Brooklyn Park City Council Member Christian Eriksen in a Facebook post. “It is with great respect to her legacy, as well as the legacy of all those whom have served before us, that I run for this office. I look forward to meeting with you in the coming weeks and learning what is important to you. How would YOU like to be represented? I’m listening.”

Eriksen was elected to the Brooklyn Park City Council in 2022.

If elected, he’d represent parts of Champlin, Coon Rapids and Brooklyn Park.

Brooklyn Park City Council Member Christian Eriksen has announced plans to run for the late Rep. Melissa Hortman’s seat.

The timeline for the special election to fill her seat hasn’t been set yet. 

Per state law, Gov. Tim Walz will pick the date. However, it has to occur before the next legislative session in February. 

See also: Yard Signs Remember Hortman’s Local Legacy

Brooklyn Park