BREEZY POINT — Former Republican state Sen. Carrie Ruud said she will not run for in the special election for the Senate District 6 seat left vacant by Justin Eichorn's resignation.
The Breezy Point resident served two stints in the Senate. She was first elected in 2002 to represent District 4, which at the time included Cass County, Bemidji, Brainerd and parts of Itasca and Hubbard counties.
Ruud lost to DFLer Mary Olson in the 2006 election.
Ruud ran and was elected again in 2012, representing Crow Wing and Aitkin counties in District 10 for nine years.
She chose not to run for reelection in 2022 after the local party unit endorsed Justin Eichorn instead when redistricting landed both in the same district.
There was speculation that Ruud would join the flurry of candidates vying for the District 6 seat. At least seven Republicans and three DFLers have announced intentions to run. Five GOPers and one Democrat have officially filed as of midday Thursday, March 27.
In a Facebook post, Ruud thanked those who encouraged her to run in the special election.
"It is humbling and warms my heart to be so well thought of," she wrote.
"I served my district for well over a decade with honor, distinction and an amazing record of accomplishment. I have been so honored [to] serve. My life is rich and full and God has another path for me.”
Ruud pointed to her various community and professional commitments.
"There are multiple candidates to choose from," she wrote. "Please make a wise choice to represent our beautiful home.”
