As candidates enter the race to fill Justin Eichorn’s recently vacated senate seat, we are learning more about what issues matter to them. The total number of candidates is up to eight, with seven republicans and one DFL-er.

Dr. John Howe of Grand Rapids is one of the Republican candidates. The businessman and former veterinary practice owner believes he has a unique perspective on the issues in district six. He outlined some of his main concerns that he hopes to address if he earns the seat in St. Paul.

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“Electrical power is the lifeblood for this area and businesses can’t expand. We can’t add new businesses if we don’t have a power grid to supply that. And with the government mandates now on power reducing their energy from fossil fuels, it’s not realistic,” said Howe.

“I think the 600 miners that lost their jobs is a huge issue because they affect a lot of ancillary businesses. And I think they’re going to need some support.”

Dr. Howe also served as President of both the Minnesota and American Veterinary Medical Association.

The DFL candidate in the race is Emily LeClaire of Brainerd. She previously ran for the district 6B house seat in 2022, and had plans to challenge Eichorn in 2026. She shared a couple issues she cares deeply about.

“One of the biggest things is affordable housing being such a huge need. Not only is it a need, but it helps with job creation and environmental issues as well. It’s kind of like a wraparound issue,” said LeClaire.

“Childcare availability is a huge need, and especially during the summer, we’re looking at kiddos that are school-aged children that normally don’t need childcare during the school year. That is a huge cost and burden on parents, so just having more availability and more options for lower-income families I think would be huge too.”

With Governor Walz’s announcement of a special election on April 29, a special primary on April 15 is likely given the sheer number of Republican candidates in the race. Candidates have until April 1 to declare they are running, and until April 2 to drop out.