Olson endorsed for second term in Senate District 4

Sen. Mary Olson, DFL-Bemidji, was overwhelmingly endorsed for a second term to the Senate District 4 seat and Pequot Lakes resident Meg Bye was again selected as the DFL challenger for House District 4B at the District 4 endorsing convention Saturday at Walker-Hackensack-Akeley High School.

Olson said she received 68 of the 71 votes for the endorsement.

"It was, I guess, gratifying to see so many people take time out of their Saturday morning and show support, so I'm grateful," Olson said Sunday afternoon.

Olson, who is seeking a second term in the senate, was challenged by Bemidji resident Gregory W. Paquin, a Red Lake Band member. Also endorsed Saturday was Rep. John Persell, DFL-Bemidji. He was challenged for the House 4B endorsement by Nicole Beaulieu of Bemidji and a Leech Lake Band member.

Bye was unchallenged for the House District 4B DFL endorsement. Two years ago she also challenged Rep. Larry Howes, R-Walker, for the representative seat.

"I think what it shows is that people appreciated the run I made last time and are interested in supporting me again," Bye said.

Senate District 4 includes portions of Cass, Itasca, Beltrami, Hubbard and the northern half of Crow Wing County.

MATT ERICKSON may be reached at matt.erickson@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5857.