MOORHEAD — Democrat Will Hagen has announced he is suspending his bid for the Minnesota House District 4A seat after Heather Keeler won the DFL party endorsement for the seat currently held by Ben Lien, a Democrat who has said he is not running for re-election.
In making the announcement, Hagen called on fellow Democrat and Moorhead City Council Member Chuck Hendrickson, who is also an announced candidate for the District 4A seat, to suspend his campaign as well and concede to Keeler.
"We must have unity going into November to stand up for the policies and issues that matter most to Minnesotans," Hagen said.
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District 4A includes the city of Moorhead and Oakport Township.
Hendrickson said Monday, May 11, that he is remaining in the race until at least the Aug. 11 primary election in Minnesota.
"It's nothing against Heather," Hendrickson said, adding that he is staying in the race because the number of people casting nominating ballots during the recent online vote numbered less than 100.
Hendrickson said because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the next two years will be critical years for Minnesota. If elected, he said he can hit the ground running in St. Paul thanks to relationships he has fostered through his lobbying efforts for the city of Moorhead.
Keeler has said her campaign platform includes investing in educational equity, providing quality health care for all, expanding affordable housing, closing the pay gap and increasing broadband access. She holds a bachelor's degree in project management and a master's degree in educational leadership, both from MSUM.
Edwin Hahn, a business owner and former candidate for Moorhead City Council, is running for the House 4A seat as a Republican.
