Special primary election for State Representative District 47A

The candidates running in the DFL special primary election for State Representative District 47A include candidates David Azcona, Shelley Buck and Juli Servatius. The special primary will be held Tuesday, Dec. 16. The special election is Jan. 27.

No Republican candidates have filed.

District 47A covers parts of Maplewood and Woodbury. The seat became vacant after Rep. Amanda Hemmingsen-Jaeger's resignation to run for the Senate.

Hear from the candidates below.

David Azcona

Why are you running?

My name is David Azcona, and I have been a lifelong resident of Woodbury. I am running because the American Dream is under threat, as life is becoming unaffordable for most Minnesotans due to the Trump Administration, and because of the corporate capture of our government.

What life or professional experiences led you to seek this position?

I have been a volunteer for Governor Tim Walz when he first ran for governor. I have also been a Volunteer for Keith Ellison when he first ran for Attorney General. I was selected as a delegate from the 8th precinct of Woodbury for the DFL district 47 convention on April 23rd, 2022. I have worked on Dean Phillips Presidential campaign.

What are the top issues you’re discussing with voters and why?

A top issue is the fact that Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota removed the YMCA and Lifetime Fitness from its Silver Sneakers programs for Minnesotans enrolled in its Medicare Advantage Plans, leaving 26,000 Minnesotans to pay an arm and a leg to attend workout classes and build community with other seniors, or to sit around at home.

Shelley Buck

Why are you running?

I am running to bring a new perspective to the Capitol. One rooted in service, accountability, and a commitment to Minnesota's people. As a Dakota, these lands are my ancestral homelands. Our connection to the land is not just cultural but relational, and protecting our natural relatives is a responsibility I carry with pride. I'm stepping forward because I believe our state deserves leaders who will champion working families, safeguard our environment, and a future where everyone can thrive.

What life or professional experiences led you to seek this position?

I grew up not seeing people like me in positions like this but when I was elected to serve on the Tribal Council for my Tribe I realized it was possible. I served 12 years on Tribal Council with 6 of them as President. I worked with our partners in the legislature to make positive changes for our Tribe. I want to do the same thing for 47A. I know how to get bipartisan legislation passed. I know how to be respectful and work towards a common goal.

What are the top issues you’re discussing with voters and why?

Some of the top issues are: (1)Affordability-affordability of healthcare, housing, and everyday expenses. This is affecting all of us. (2)Protecting the environment, especially our water. PFAS has invaded our waters from the cities to Prairie Island, we need to make sure there is no further contamination and that those who do the polluting are fully held accountable for the cleanup. (3)Safety/Gun Safety is on many people's minds. We need common sense laws that protect us all.

Juli Servatius

Why are you running?

John & I plus 3 kids lived in S. Maplewd 10 years. Now we’ve lived in Woodbury 15 years. In both cities I helped in our kids’ public schools/sports teams; organized our neighborhoods. I know these 2 towns well! I’m also running to offer the legislature what I’ve learned from many years of friendships with low income single moms. I know what govt helps move them forward & which need tweaking. I developed & tested the “meal teams method.” It help these moms & a team of volunteers become friends.

What life or professional experiences led you to seek this position?

I’m guessing my high school model UN experience doesn't count? Seriously, I’m learned A LOT from my single mom/foster mom friends. That knowledge will help me help the Legislature tweak policies/programs. In MN culture, we offer food, clothes, frozen turkeys & holiday toys a plenty. But an apartment, workable job & a car to get to a job and offered helps? Those are MUCH HARDER. In 2020 I started a successful Wash. County/5 Oaks Church collab for foster, adoptive & single moms. I can help!

What are the top issues you’re discussing with voters and why?

Voters are invited to look online for my moderate positions on all topics, even abortion. Voters can be proud of MN’s generosity. We don’t just help our local poor but also refugees we’ve welcomed. But horrible debacles can happen to good people doing good things. Culpable state leaders (& Gov Walz) must issue 5-part apologies to taxpayers. I made a video of sample apology for Governor Walz. Find it at votejuli.org