Zack Stephenson’s District 35A includes half of Coon Rapids and all of Anoka, but he is rapidly becoming a household name in the whole state. Elected in 2018, the DFLer’s star rose in 2023 as he carried the House cannabis bill in his role as commerce committee chair, and he played a significant role in yet-to-pass sports betting legislation. He says his is a swing district “and people want me to get stuff done. I’m getting as much done as I can.” A Hennepin County prosecutor by day, Stephenson says education is his No. 1 priority, closely followed by mental health access and the impact of social media on child mental health. At press time, he changed course and announced he would not challenge 3rd District U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips for his seat in Congress.

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