Election filing closes

The filing period for local political offices ended Tuesday, June 2 and there are both new and familiar faces in the mix.

At the state level, incumbent Mike Sundin (DFL) will face challenger Jeff Dotseth (R) again in the general election for State Representative District 11A. For State Senator District 11, incumbent Jason Rarick (R) will face challenger Michelle Lee (DFL).

For Carlton County commissioner, incumbent Dick Brenner will be challenged by Erik Blesener, while District 3 commissioner Tom Proulx is running unopposed. Three people are running for the District 5 seat: incumbent Gary Peterson, and challengers Marci Moreland and Alex French.

In Cloquet City Council races, at-large councilor Lara Wilkinson and Ward 4 councilor Kerry Kolodge are both unopposed. Three challengers filed for the Ward 5 councilor spot currently held by Steve Langley. Dave Hallback, Dennis Painter and Lyz Jaakola will face off in a primary election on Aug. 11.

There is only one contested race in the Soil and Water District: Kim Samuelson and Dan Reed both filed for the District 4 seat.

Judges Robert Macaulay and Rebekka Stumme are unopposed for their Carlton County judgeships.

Primary elections are set for Aug. 11 for any race with three or more candidates. Election Day for the final two candidates is Nov. 3.

Look for more information on candidates in future issues of the Pine Knot News.