Election Day 2025 delivered a wave of surprises, historic firsts, and shifting political tides in key cities and states across the country. From dramatic upsets in Minnesota to closely watched city council races in Arizona, voters made their voices heard in contests that could shape the political landscape for years to come.
Historic Victory in St. Paul: Kaohly Her Breaks Barriers
One of the most talked-about moments of the night came from St. Paul, Minnesota, where
Kaohly Her made history with a groundbreaking win. Her victory marks a significant milestone for representation in the city, and her campaign was described as "relentless" by local media. The upset in St. Paul signals a shift in voter priorities and highlights the growing influence of diverse candidates in urban politics.
Minneapolis Mayor’s Race Heads to Second Round
Meanwhile, in neighboring Minneapolis, the mayoral race remains undecided as it heads into a second round of voting. The contest has been fiercely competitive, with no candidate securing a clear majority on election night. This runoff underscores the city's divided electorate and the high stakes involved in local governance.
Democrats Hold Slim Majority in Minnesota Senate
On the state level,
Democrats managed to retain their one-seat majority in the Minnesota Senate, a result that could have major implications for legislative priorities in the coming year. The narrow margin reflects a politically engaged and polarized electorate, with both parties vying for control in a state known for its swing status.
Tucson City Council: New Faces and Persistent Candidates
In Tucson, Arizona, the city council races saw
Selina Barajas and Miranda Schubert poised to join the council, according to preliminary results. The contests in Wards 3, 5, and 6 were closely watched, with education funding measures and school bond overrides also on the ballot. Notably, Republican candidate Janet Wittenbraker, despite receiving only
32% of the vote, vowed to remain active in local politics, emphasizing the importance of voter engagement and hinting at future runs.
Key Takeaways and What’s Next
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Voter turnout was a central theme, with candidates across the country urging citizens to stay engaged and participate in local elections.
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Diversity and representation are on the rise, as seen in St. Paul’s historic win and the growing number of women and minority candidates securing office.
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Political polarization remains a challenge, with razor-thin margins in legislative bodies and runoff elections highlighting deep divisions.
As final counts are certified and runoffs approach, all eyes will be on how these results influence policy, party strategies, and the broader national conversation heading into 2026.
Actionable Takeaways
- Stay informed about local elections—these races often have a direct impact on daily life and community priorities.
- Watch for emerging leaders like Kaohly Her, whose victories could inspire a new generation of candidates.
- Expect continued debate and close contests as parties recalibrate for the next election cycle.
Sources
1. RESULTS ARE IN: Your guide to 2025 Election results - YouTube
2. Election results: Selina Barajas, Miranda Schubert poised to join ...
3. Star Tribune
