Incumbents Doepke, Smith lose endorsement contests in SD 33

GOP state Reps. Connie Doepke and Steve Smith lost endorsement contests Wednesday night in Senate District 33.

Doepke was seeking the GOP endorsement to replace retiring Sen. Gen Olson in the western suburban district. But she lost out to Mound City Councilor David Osmek on the fourth and final ballot. Doepke trailed in every round of voting. Her fate was sealed when the other challenger, veteran GOP activist Bonn Clayton, endorsed Osmek after the third ballot. He ultimately prevailed with more than 80 percent of the vote.

Cindy Pugh, co-founder of the Southwest Metro Tea Party, easily won the endorsement contest in House District 33B on the first ballot with nearly 70 percent of the vote. Minnetonka School Board member Pam  Langseth finished second, while 11-term incumbent Smith was a distant third.

In the other House contest, St. Bonifacius City Councilor Joe Arwood and Greenfield Mayor Jerry Hertaus battled to a draw. They are expected to face off in a GOP primary.

 

2 Responses to “Incumbents Doepke, Smith lose endorsement contests in SD 33”

1. sd48webmaster Says:
   May 24th, 2012 at 3:31 am

   Congratulations to Dave Osmek and Cindy Pugh on great wins tonight!

2. Bob Maginnis Says:
   May 25th, 2012 at 10:07 am

   Republican Seniors of Minnesota congratulate Cindy Pugh on her well deserved victory in HD33B election. We look forward to her winning the seat in November election.