Incumbent Brad Tabke and Police Officer Aaron Paul Face Off Again in Minnesota’s 14-Vote Race
Incumbent DFL Rep. Brad Tabke and Republican police officer Aaron Paul are contesting Minnesota House District 54A again after a 2024 victory decided by just 14 votes and a ballot-count controversy.
In the 2024 Minnesota House race for District 54A, DFL Rep. Brad Tabke narrowly defeated Republican police officer Aaron Paul by a margin of 14 votes, a result that sparked a lawsuit over 20 uncounted ballots. The court found that six identified voters had supported Tabke, ending the push for a new election, and Tabke was subsequently sworn in for his third non-consecutive term. Tabke’s record includes votes for expanded abortion access, a higher gas tax, free school meals, and several measures benefiting illegal immigrants, such as MinnesotaCare coverage and a driver’s-license bill.
He also led an “ICE watch” group during Operation Metro Surge. Paul, a veteran officer, is campaigning on reducing taxes, combating fraud, and supporting police. The seat is viewed as a pivotal toss-up that could determine control of the Minnesota House.
Why it matters
The tightly contested district could tip the balance of power in the Minnesota House, affecting state policy direction.
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