MERRIFIELD — Steve Cotariu, owner of Hudan Magic and an Army veteran, joined the field of Republicans vying for the state Senate District 6 seat Tuesday, March 25.
The north-central Minnesota seat was left vacant by the resignation of Justin Eichorn last week.
Cotariu is a West Point graduate who became an Army major, according to a news release announcing his candidacy. After his time in the military, Cotariu received a Master of Business Administration from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He is currently the chairman of the board of advisors for Alakai Defense Systems.
In the release, Cotariu said he aims to bring practical solutions and principled leadership to the senate.
"As a veteran, entrepreneur, and community volunteer, I have dedicated my life to serving others," he wrote.
"None of the other candidates have the breadth of leadership and business experience necessary to get the job done. I did not set out to get into politics, but am announcing my candidacy because I believe Minnesotans deserve a Senator who will fight for their interests and has the skill set to get results."
Cotariu joins a crowded field, with six other Republicans and two DFLers announcing their candidacy in the last few days.
On his campaign website, Cotariu highlights fiscal responsibility, economic growth, education, crime, veterans and families.
He unsuccessfully ran for Crosby-Ironton School Board in November, finishing last of six candidates.
-
Contributed/Artist'Lotus' by Little Simz is KAXE's Album of the Week for June 16-22, 2025. -
Lorie Shaull/KAXEAn estimated 2,000 rallied in Brainerd, while an estimated 1,000 rallied in Bemidji and Grand Rapids, despite warnings about large gatherings in light of Rep. Hortman's assassination. -
Megan Buffington/KAXEUniversity of Minnesota Twin Cities rising senior Dani Faher will spend two months covering Northern Minnesota with the KAXE News Team. -
Lorie Shaull/KAXERep. Melissa Hortman served as Minnesota House speaker from 2019 to early 2025, when she was named Speaker Emerita under a power-sharing agreement.
