Atkins Will Campaign in Eagan, Mendota Heights

Rep. Joe Atkins (DFL) will be campaigning in new territory this year, including portions of Eagan, as he adjusts to new political boundaries set by the state's once-in-a-decade redistricting process.

Atkins announced last Friday that he will run again for the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2012. The move dispelled rumors that the legislator would challenge Congressman John Kline (R) for control over Minnesota's Second Congressional District.

Unlike previous election cycles, when Atkins' house district fell entirely within the boundaries of Inver Grove Heights, the legislator will be campaigning in Mendota Heights, Sunfish Lake and northern Eagan as part of his run for the newly-created House District 52B. The new district is a product of the , which concluded late in February. To see a map of House District 52B, click here.

“My ability to pass important, bipartisan legislation, even as a member of the minority, was definitely a key factor in my decision to seek re-election to the Minnesota House,” Atkins wrote in a press release issued last week. Atkins said he kicked off his legislative campaign last weekend by going to door-to-door in Mendota Heights and Eagan.

Mark Westpfahl, GOP chair of District 39B—soon to be District 52B, said even after redistricting Atkins is still a formidable opponent for any GOP contender at the House level.

“I think it’s going to be more competitive than it’s ever been, but that doesn’t necessarily say all that much,” said Westpfahl. “Joe completely has the upper hand. He could blanket Inver Grove Heights and the Eagan and Mendota Heights precincts with literature on a constant basis. Our biggest challenge is going to be going up against the machine that Joe’s already created.”

Kline may also be relatively secure in his seat, said Westpfahl.

House District 39’s GOP convention is scheduled for 8 a.m. on March 10 at Miracle Center Church in South St. Paul. Candidate announcements for state seats are expected in April or May.