DNC Chair Ken Martin Congratulates Rep-elect Lee on His Victory, Honors the Legacy of Speaker Emeritus Melissa Hortman Arrow

Tonight, Rep.-elect Xp Lee won a special election to replace the seat once held by former Minnesota House Speaker Emeritus Melissa Hortman following her tragic assassination in June.

In response to tonight's election results in Minnesota's House District 34B, DNC Chair Ken Martin released the following statement:

"I offer a heartfelt congratulations to Xp Lee on his victory in tonight's special election. Xp's commitment to expanding access to education, affordable health care, and good-paying jobs honors the legacy of our dear friend, Speaker Emeritus Melissa Hortman.

"Across Minnesota, our hearts are still broken by the horrific assassination that stole Melissa and her husband Mark. Political violence is a scourge that has taken far too many lives. Enough is enough. 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.

"The sacred duty of an elected representative is to work tirelessly for the interests of their constituents. I've seen Rep-elect Lee's leadership up close while he was a Brooklyn Park City Councilmember and I have no doubt he'll continue that leadership as a statehouse member. Rep-elect Lee will be a champion for the constituents of his district, and through that work, proudly carry the legacy of a leader who worked tirelessly for all Minnesotans - my friend, the great Melissa Hortman."

Minnesota DFL Chair Richard Carlblom released the following statement:

"Xp Lee's victory is proof of the positive momentum Democrats are creating across Minnesota and across the country, and we couldn't be prouder to stand with him tonight. Our party is committed to uplifting those who continue Melissa Hortman's legacy of public service, leadership, and compassion - Xp Lee's win is a clear testament to that dedication.

"In nearly every election since Trump took office - including two special elections in Minnesota earlier this year - Democrats have been more energized, engaged, and ready to win elections than ever before. Nationwide, our candidates have either outperformed their 2024 margins or won in 42 out of 43 key elections this year. We're fired up and ready to build on this success all the way through 2026."