From CBS 3 News Duluth - September 24, 2020

An Indigenous woman from Aitkin County has entered the race for Minneota's 8th congressional seat. 

Gaylene Spolarich joins Quinn Nystrom, of Baxter, and Soren Sorenson, of Bemidji, in seeking the democratic ticket in the race. 

According to a campaign video on YouTube, Spolarich has worked in tribal government for 25 years for the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. During that time she has lead education programs working with vulnerable children and their families.

“I believe my work experience, and my experience in government give me a grounded sense of what working people, small communities, and tribal communities in our region are facing. I hope to be a bridge as well as a voice for those left behind by politics-as-usual," Spolarich said in a news release.

The 59-year-old is a lifelong resident of Aitkin County and a member of North Dakota's Tutle Mountain Band of Chippewa. 

The 8th District DFL convention is set for May 2nd at Grand Casino in Hinckley.

Incumbent Republican Rep. Pete Stauber announced in January he would seek reelection for the seat.

To see a video version of this report and read related reporting, follow the link to the CBS 3 Duluth website.  https://cbs3duluth.com/2020/02/22/indigenous-woman-vying-for-democratic-nomination-in-8th-district-c...