BROOKLYN PARK, Minn. — The Minnesota House seat held by the late Melissa Hortman will remain in Democratic hands. Voters overwhelmingly chose former City Council member Xionpao Lee to represent District 34-B. The district encompasses parts of Anoka and Hennepin counties. “Xp,” as he prefers being called, defeated Republican Ruth Bittner of Coon Rapids 61% to 39%. Why his preference for going by “Xp”? Because his first name in Laotian doesn’t tipple easily off many Minnesota tongues. Lee’s victory evens the balance of power in the Minnesota House. Democrats and Republicans now both hold 67 seats.
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Lee. His priorities include diversity and community engagement.