Recount Underway in Minnesota House Race

A recount in Minnesota House District 54A is underway to determine the winner of a closely contested race, where incumbent DFL Rep. Brad Tabke leads GOP challenger Aaron Paul by just 14 votes. The hand recount, which began at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, is necessary due to the narrow margin and a discrepancy in absentee ballot counts in Shakopee, where officials recorded 21 more absentee check-ins than counted ballots. This recount could significantly impact the balance of power in the Minnesota House, currently tied at 67 seats each for Republicans and Democrats. If Paul were to win, Republicans would gain a majority, while a Tabke victory would maintain the tie, prompting discussions of a power-sharing agreement. In addition to this recount, another is scheduled next week for House District 14B, where DFL Rep. Dan Wolgamott leads by 191 votes. Election officials and party representatives are closely monitoring the process to ensure transparency and accuracy.