Thu Nov 07 13:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Democrat Kelly Morrison Wins Minnesota’s Third Congressional District Seat

**MINNEAPOLIS, MN** – Former state Sen. Kelly Morrison, a Democrat, has been elected to represent Minnesota’s Third Congressional District, filling the vacancy left by Rep. Dean Phillips’s short-lived presidential bid. Morrison defeated Republican challenger Tad Jude, a former Hennepin County judge, in a close race.

Morrison ran on a platform centered on abortion rights, highlighting her experience as an OBGYN and her commitment to national abortion rights legislation. Jude, a conservative, sought to portray Morrison as too liberal, emphasizing her role in the 2023 legislative session, which many Republicans viewed as excessively liberal.

The Third Congressional District, which encompasses affluent suburbs around Minneapolis, has historically been a bastion of moderate Republicans. However, Phillips, a Democrat, flipped the seat in 2018, riding a wave of support for Democrats across the country.

Morrison benefited from strong support from Phillips and other Democrats, and she significantly outspent Jude, raising over $2 million compared to his $330,000. Her campaign focused on door-knocking and grassroots outreach, earning praise from supporters for her dedication to listening to the concerns of district residents.

The election was closely watched as it could impact the balance of power in the Minnesota Senate. Morrison’s victory in the Third Congressional District adds another seat to the Democrats’ column, potentially giving them an edge in the upcoming legislative session.

Phillips, in a statement congratulating Morrison, praised her “competent, collegial, and courageous representation” and expressed confidence that she will be an effective leader in Congress.

Read More