Erik Osberg Wins DFL Primary for Minnesota's 7th District

Democratic-Farmer-Labor candidate Erik Osberg won the primary election for Minnesota's 7th Congressional District on August 12, 2026. Unofficial results from the Minnesota Secretary of State showed Osberg leading 66 percent to 34 percent over challenger Steve Carlson, with more than 80 percent of precincts reporting.

Osberg, the DFL-endorsed candidate and Rural Rebound Initiative coordinator for Otter Tail County, campaigned on increasing investments in agriculture, education, and healthcare. He specifically criticized the economic policies of President Donald Trump, arguing that tariffs have contributed to current inflation.

Steve Carlson ran on a platform supporting the Trump agenda and criticized DFL leadership, including Governor Tim Walz and Senator Amy Klobuchar. Following his victory, Osberg will advance to the general election to challenge the incumbent Republican Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach, who faced no primary opposition.