Republican-recommended judicial candidate vies to unseat Walz appointee in 10th District

Alpha News ^ | 10/31/24 | Hank Long

[CFW]

Across Minnesota, more than 105 district court seats are up for election next week. But just six are contested. And only one has garnered the attention of partisan politicos.

In the 10th Judicial District—which covers eight counties that wrap around the northern portion of the Twins Cities—attorney Nathan Hansen is hoping to unseat one-term incumbent Judge Helen Brosnahan, who was appointed to the bench by DFL Gov. Tim Walz just two years ago, after Judge Tad Jude announced his retirement and intent to run for attorney general.

Although judicial candidates don’t typically seek political party endorsements, Hansen is bucking that trend.

In August, Hansen, 47, a well-known Mahtomedi-based attorney, announced to his supporters he had received recommended status by the Republican Party of Minnesota.

“I think it’s important for voters to know who they’re voting for,” Hansen said, explaining why he sought and received recommended status from the state GOP. “Judicial races don’t get a lot of attention and the party’s recommendation for judges is a useful association for Republican voters to know a candidate is someone whose philosophies and values align with their own.”

[snip]

Despite having received donations from prominent DFLers, Brosnahan told Alpha News this week that she has never sought or received endorsements or recommendations by any organizations or candidates affiliated with the DFL Party. Her website does not indicate a party affiliation. She isn’t a newcomer to judicial campaigns, however. In 2010, Brosnahan lost to Tad Jude, garnering just more than 2 percent of the vote in a field of 24 candidates.

[CFW]

Heads up Minnesota voters. If you haven't yet voted, make sure to vote for Nathan Hansen and against Walz-appointed Judge Helen Brosnahan.