Masin faces surprise challenger in primary

• Tweet
• 
• 
• 

• Tweet
• 
• 
• 

Sandra Masin

For several months, it appeared Sandra Masin, a DFL endorsed candidate, would be the only Democrat to move forward in the House District 51A race.

That was until Burnsville resident Milton Walden put his name in the hat in May, prompting a primary Aug. 14.

Walden, who could not be reached for comment, has no campaign website, and according to recent reports, he has said he doesn’t intend to actively campaign.

The legislative district hasn’t seen many candidates enter so late in the game, said John Wells chair of Senate District 51 DFL.

“Running for office is not to be taken flippantly,” Wells said. “If it’s done seriously and thoughtfully, that’s what the system is about.”

Walden has admitted he has never been active in the party and didn’t attend the state convention in February, according to reports.

Wells said he is confident Masin will win the primary “by a landslide.”

“She’s the only choice,” he said. “She’s put more time into public service.”

When asked whether he believes the unexpected primary will put a damper on Masin’s run against Republican Rep. Diane Anderson, Wells said no.

“I think she needs to change her campaign slightly to make sure people vote in the primary, but she has made it clear who the right choice is when choosing between Sandra and Diane,” he said.