Dean Phillips Steps Aside: Kelly Morrison and Tad Jude Vie for Minnesota’s 3rd Congressional District

As the 2024 elections unfold, Minnesota‘s 3rd Congressional District is at the forefront of a significant political transition. Rep. Dean Phillips, who has held the seat since 2019, is not seeking reelection after his recent and ultimately unsuccessful presidential campaign.

Phillips, a Democrat, flipped the historically Republican district in 2018 by unseating incumbent Rep. Erik Paulsen. He was reelected in 2020 and 2022 but chose not to run again this year to pursue the presidency. After a series of defeats in the primaries, Phillips dropped out of the presidential race in March 2024.

The race to replace Phillips is now between Democrat Kelly Morrison and Republican Tad Jude. Morrison, a practicing OB-GYN, has a strong legislative background, having been elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2018 and later to the state Senate in 2022. She resigned from the Senate in June to focus on her Congressional campaign. Morrison’s campaign emphasizes protecting reproductive rights, addressing gun violence, and tackling climate change.

Tad Jude, with over 50 years of political experience, has served in various roles including the Minnesota House of Representatives, the state Senate, and as a judge in Minnesota’s 10th Judicial District. Jude’s campaign focuses on issues such as the economy, immigration, and support for Israel. He has also expressed his opposition to abortion, supporting the overturning of Roe v. Wade.

The 3rd Congressional District, which includes parts of Hennepin and Anoka counties, encompasses cities like Anoka, Coon Rapids, Brooklyn Park, and Edina, as well as the Lake Minnetonka area. The election results will be closely watched as they reflect the broader political landscape in Minnesota and the nation.