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NEWS RELEASE
REP. TORKELSON ANNOUNCES HE WILL NOT SEEK RE-ELECTION
ST. PAUL – State Representative Paul Torkelson (R-Hanska) announced today that he will not seek re-election to the Minnesota House of Representatives this November.
Torkelson represents Minnesota House District 15B, which consists of cities and townships within Brown, Redwood, and Blue Earth counties.
"I'd like to thank the citizens in our area for their support over the years and for the opportunity to represent their interests in St. Paul," Torkelson said. "It has truly been an honor and a privilege, but after 18 years of being in the political arena I am ready to spend more time with my family.”
Torkelson was first elected in 2008 and rose through the ranks of the Minnesota House Republican caucus. During his tenure, he served as assistant leader, as well as chairman of the Minnesota House Capital Investment, Transportation Finance, and Ways and Means committees.
During this time, he championed numerous provisions that ultimately became state law. His top priority became reality in 2022 as he was able to help secure funding that ultimately helped create four lanes of Highway 14 between Nicollet and New Ulm. While having legislation passed into law was satisfying, Torkelson said he most enjoyed the behind-the-scenes work that established legislative relationships and helped move important legislation forward.
Torkelson said he has carried many themes throughout his time in the Minnesota House, including solid support for family values and pro-life initiatives, advocacy for agriculture and for his fellow farmers, and continued concern for the elderly and disadvantaged communities.
Torkelson will finish his current term, which concludes in early January 2027, when a new legislature will be sworn into office.
“I have truly enjoyed working with all lawmakers, as well as partisan and nonpartisan staff,” Torkelson said. “But I have most enjoyed meeting with and working for my constituents and bringing their priorities forward. While I am not seeking re-election, residents should remember that I will continue to represent them until a new state representative is seated in 2027. As always, I encourage them to contact me with any legislative questions or concerns."
If you have any legislative questions or comments, you can reach Representative Torkelson at 651-296-9303 or by email at rep.paul.torkelson@house.mn.gov.
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