BEMIDJI — First-term state lawmaker Bidal Duran announced he will run for reelection this year.
Duran, a Republican from Bemidji, serves District 2A, which includes portions of Beltrami and Clearwater counties and all of Lake of the Woods County.
A combat veteran and former law enforcement officer, Duran stated he is committed to focusing on outcomes rather than partisan conflict.
“I’m committed to working with anyone who shares the goal of strengthening our communities, regardless of political differences,” Duran stated. “Serving people comes first. Political drama doesn’t fix problems.”
During his time in the Legislature, Duran has focused on public safety, veterans and military affairs, fiscal responsibility, protecting local control and education, a news release stated.
““The people closest to the classroom understand what’s working and what isn’t,” he stated. “I will continue working with educators and local school leaders to pursue practical improvements that help students succeed and support the professionals who serve them every day.”
Reed Olson, who ran against Duran as the DFL candidate in 2024, announced late last year he will run for the seat again. No other candidates have announced their intentions to run as of Thursday.
-
Plus: Make the damn copy; make the damn copy; and make the damn copy. -
Minnesotans across the state will have a constitutional amendment on their ballots asking to increase the yearly allotment from the Permanent School Fund. For some, the measure is 20 years in the making.
-
Plus: Beltrami County officials tour the under-construction jail facility slated to open in May 2027.
-
Contributed/M StateThe closure announcement comes as the Minnesota State system announces plans to "right size" its operations over 50 campuses amid financial challenges. -
Larissa Donovan/KAXEA public open house will be announced before the new Beltrami County Adult Corrections Center opens in May 2027. -
Complaint accuses Cass sheriff of sharing nude images; Nevis man sentenced for social services fraudFind more stories from KAXE News at kaxe.org/local-news.
-
Screenshot/Minnesota Department of Natural ResourcesThe agency announced its decision to require supplemental environmental review Oct. 8, 2026, for the copper-nickel project planned between Babbitt and Hoyt Lakes. -
Contributed/Sora Shimazaki via PexelsVincent Bellomo, 76, was sentenced in September 2026. He originally faced six felonies after investigators found he had large sums in his savings accounts while he was applying for benefits. -
Megan Buffington/KAXEDeputy Aaron Ammerman, who is running for Cass County sheriff, filed the complaint against Sheriff Bryan Welk in January. An investigation was closed with no apparent action. -
Contributed/Trina Swanson for CongressWhile Democrats running for the U.S. House have an advantage this year, Stauber has positioned himself well in the Iron Range district.
