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Minnesota Sen. Jim Carlson to Retire in 2026

State Sen. Jim Carlson (DFL-Eagan), who has represented Senate District 52 since first being elected in 2006, announced Oct. 6, 2025 that he will retire at the end of his current term. Carlson — a five-term senator who chaired the Senate Elections Committee and served on Judiciary, Public Safety, State and Local Government and Veterans, and Transportation committees — cited satisfaction with his legislative accomplishments; his seat will be contested Nov. 3, 2026.

Local Government Elections
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📌 Key Facts

  • Sen. Jim Carlson (DFL‑Eagan) first elected in 2006 and is serving his fifth term representing Senate District 52 (Eagan, Burnsville, Mendota Heights, Mendota).
  • Carlson chaired the Senate Elections Committee and helped pass measures including the hands‑free cellphone law and child safety seat requirements.
  • Carlson announced his retirement Oct. 6, 2025; the District 52 seat will be on the ballot Nov. 3, 2026.

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October 06, 2025