Jake Johnson Declares Victory in Minnesota’s 1st Congressional District Race; Recount Likely
In Minneapolis-St. Paul, Democrat Jake Johnson has declared victory in Minnesota's 1st Congressional District race against incumbent Rep. Brad Finstad. Johnson leads by a slim margin of 324 votes, making a recount likely.
Minneapolis St. Paul, MN, November 4, 2026 — Democrat Jake Johnson has declared victory in the closely contested race for Minnesota’s 1st Congressional District, according to preliminary results. Johnson is currently leading incumbent Republican Representative Brad Finstad by a narrow margin of 324 votes.
The race, which covers a significant portion of southern Minnesota, has seen a tight contest between the two candidates. With Johnson’s declaration of victory and the slim vote difference, a recount is considered highly probable.
Official results are still being finalized. The final tally will determine whether the current margin holds or if a formal recount process will be initiated. Such a process would involve a systematic review of all ballots cast in the district.
The outcome of this election will shape the representation for Minnesota’s 1st Congressional District, which traditionally has leaned Republican. This election cycle, however, has demonstrated a highly competitive environment. Details regarding specific vote counts beyond the current lead and the exact timeline for any potential recount procedures were not immediately available.
The trend summary stated the election occurred in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, however, Minnesota’s 1st Congressional District is primarily composed of rural southern Minnesota. No further details on the specific locations within the district where votes were cast were provided.
Story summarized from the original created by Joseph Swanson on kstp.com, see more information here.
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