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2025 Republican Primary Candidate Forum

Tuesday, April 8, 2025 (7:00 PM - 8:30 PM) (CDT)

Description

REPUBLICAN PRIMARY CANDIDATE FORUM

In partnership with the Brainerd Dispatch and League of Women Voters, and with support from the Rosenmeier Center for State & Local Government and all area Chambers of Commerce, we are organizing a candidate forum for Republican candidates. A debate between the final Republican and DFL candidates will occur before the election. Details TBD.

Tuesday, April 8 | 7:00 to 8:30 PM
Forestview Middle School Cafetorium (just inside the front doors)
12149 Knollwood Drive, Baxter, MN

Event will also be livestreamed on the Brainerd Lakes Chamber Facebook page.

Invited are all Republican candidates running in the April 15 primary:

Jennifer Carnahan
Steve Cotariu
Josh Gazelka
Keri Heintzeman
John Howe
Doug Kern
Angel Zierden
Matthew Zinda

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

There’s a special election this spring for Minnesota Senate District 6 after former Senator Justin Eichorn resigned in March. This seat represents parts of Cass, Crow Wing, and Itasca Counties, and state law requires a fast turnaround.

This election will happen in two phases:

April 15 – Republican Primary
April 29 – Special Election

One DFL candidate, Denise Slipy, already advanced after earning her party’s endorsement. Eight Republicans are competing in the April 15 primary election. The winner will face Slipy in the April 29 special election.

LEARN MORE AT LAKESAREA.VOTE

Visit LakesArea.vote for the latest election updates, available starting Monday. Even though the timing is unusual, this election matters to our region. Take time to learn about the candidates and be confident in your vote.