Minnesota House Democrats elect new leadership following tragic political assassination of previous Speaker Melissa Hortman

The Minnesota House Democrats are facing a challenging period following the death of Melissa Hortman, who served two decades in the House and played a pivotal role in ending a stalemate in the Minnesota House.

Hortman, who was a key figure in negotiating a power-sharing agreement, was tragically killed in a politically motivated attack. Her vacant seat has left the House tied between Democrats and Republicans for the first time in over 40 years, with Republicans currently holding a one-seat edge.

In the wake of Hortman's death, the Minnesota House Democrats have selected state Rep. Zack Stephenson to lead the caucus. Stephenson, who was first elected to the Legislature in 2018, has a long history with the party, having been hired by Hortman to be her campaign manager in 2004.

This year, Stephenson co-chaired the chamber's Ways and Means Committee, and he was among the pallbearers at Hortman's funeral. Representing Anoka and parts of Coon Rapids, Stephenson is now tasked with leading the Democrats in a crucial period, as both parties aim to break the tie and win back the majority in the November election.

As the Legislature prepares to return to St. Paul for the regular 2026 session in February, just months before the November election, lawmakers are also focusing on a potential special session. This comes in response to the Annunciation Church shooting in Minneapolis, with gun measures expected to be a key focus.

The special session is expected to take place in the wake of the Annunciation Church shooting, and lawmakers are preparing for a potentially intense and emotional debate on gun control.

The Minnesota House Democrats are still mourning the loss of Hortman, and the special election on Sept. 16 to fill her Brooklyn Park seat will determine if the tie in the Minnesota House remains. This election will be a crucial test for both parties, as they strive to honour Hortman's legacy while also competing for control of the House.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

The above video first aired on Aug. 18, 2025.

Minnesota House Democrats elect new leadership following tragic political assassination of previous Speaker Melissa Hortman