Judges in Minnesota are elected based on non-partisan elections which occur every six years. If someone vacates the position before the six year term is up, the governor appoints a replacement.
Four of the seven justices were appointed by Tim Pawlenty.
One was appointed by Arne Carlson.
One was appointed by Jesse Ventura.
One (HoF NFL defensive tackle) Alan Page won an election outright on his own and was never appointed.
Then that would be a hopeful sign for Norm Coleman.