Peter Johnson wins race for Minnesota House 8A

DULUTH, Minn. (Northern News Now) - Two political newcomers squared off to represent the western half of Duluth in St. Paul after the former Representative retired.

DFLer Pete Johnson won Minnesota's House 8A seat against Republican Mark McGrew with 68.3% of the votes as of 1:25 a.m.

Johnson has been a firefighter since 2002 and returned to serve in Duluth in 2005. Now, he lives in Duluth's Bayview Heights neighborhood.

For the last nine years, he has served on the board of directors for Center City Housing.

On Tuesday, he joined other DFL members at the Bent Paddle Brewing Co. watch party.

"Once you get elected you represent everyone," said Johnson. "It's similar to what we do as firefighters. If somebody calls for help we don't ask who they supported, we just go there and do our jobs and that's something I will take to legislature."

McGrew is a Duluth Denfeld graduate who spent nearly 25 years working as a Minnesota State Trooper.

He also spent 24 years in the Navy Reserve.

McGrew expressed thanks to all who supported him throughout the campaign

"We do appreciate everyone for coming and partaking in this festive evening with us," said McGrew.

Minnesota's 8A District is historically deep blue.

DFL Rep. Liz Olson won reelection in 2022 by 41 points.

Olson endorsed Johnson for the seat ahead of the election.

She announced her retirement in July leaving the seat vacant.