Minnesota Sen. Jim Carlson to Retire in 2026
State Sen. Jim Carlson (DFL‑Eagan), who has represented Senate District 52 since first being elected in 2006, announced Oct. 6, 2025 that he will retire at the end of his current term. Carlson — a five‑term senator who chaired the Senate Elections Committee and served on Judiciary, Public Safety, State and Local Government and Veterans, and Transportation committees — cited satisfaction with his legislative accomplishments; his seat will be contested Nov. 3, 2026.
Local Government
Elections
📌 Key Facts
- Sen. Jim Carlson (DFL‑Eagan) first elected in 2006 and is serving his fifth term representing Senate District 52 (Eagan, Burnsville, Mendota Heights, Mendota).
- Carlson chaired the Senate Elections Committee and helped pass measures including the hands‑free cellphone law and child safety seat requirements.
- Carlson announced his retirement Oct. 6, 2025; the District 52 seat will be on the ballot Nov. 3, 2026.