Xp Lee

Xiongpao "Xp" Lee is an American politician currently serving as a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives, representing District 34B. A member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (DFL), Lee assumed office in 2025 following a special election. His election came in the wake of the assassination of the previous representative, Melissa Hortman. Prior to his tenure in the state legislature, Lee was active in local politics as a city council member in Brooklyn Park, where he made history as part of a council that became the first majority nonwhite council in the city's history.

Early life and career

Xp Lee was born in December 1978 in a refugee camp located in Nong Khai, Thailand. His family, part of the Hmong ethnic group, had been displaced from Laos during the Vietnam War, which significantly impacted their lives and shaped their future. Lee's early years were marked by the challenges faced by many refugee families, including the struggle for stability and integration into a new society. After spending part of his childhood in California, his family relocated to South Carolina, where his father found employment as a mechanic. This move was part of their pursuit of a better life and opportunities in the United States.

Lee pursued higher education at the University of South Carolina Upstate, where he earned a bachelor's degree in graphic design. This academic background provided him with skills that would later aid his community engagement efforts. After completing his education, Lee moved to Minnesota, where he became actively involved in the nonprofit sector. His commitment to community service led him to volunteer at the Center for Hmong Arts and Talent, an organization dedicated to promoting Hmong culture and supporting Hmong artists.

In addition to his volunteer work, Lee founded the Hmong American Census Network, an initiative aimed at increasing participation in the 2020 United States census within the Hmong-American community. This endeavor highlighted his dedication to ensuring that underrepresented communities had a voice and were accurately counted in national statistics, which are crucial for resource allocation and political representation.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Lee served as a community coordinator for the Minnesota Department of Health, where he played a vital role in addressing public health challenges and supporting community outreach efforts. His work during this time underscored his commitment to public service and community health. Following this role, he took on the position of policy and special programs manager for the Minnesota Council on Foundations, further expanding his experience in policy development and community engagement.

Legislative service

Lee's political career began with his election to the Brooklyn Park City Council in 2022. He entered the race for a special election to fill the remainder of Lisa Jacobson's term after Jacobson was elected mayor. At the time of his candidacy, Lee was already serving on the city's planning commission, which provided him with insights into local governance and community needs. His campaign was successful, as he received the highest percentage of votes among the candidates, marking a significant achievement in his political journey.

His election to the city council was notable for several reasons. It represented a shift in the demographic makeup of the council, as it became the first time that a majority of its members were nonwhite. This milestone reflected the changing demographics of Brooklyn Park and highlighted the importance of diverse representation in local governance. Lee's tenure on the city council allowed him to address various community issues and work collaboratively with fellow council members on initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents.

Lee chose not to seek reelection for the Brooklyn Park City Council in 2024, paving the way for Amanda Cheng Xiong to succeed him. His decision to step down from the council was likely influenced by his aspirations for higher office, which culminated in his candidacy for the Minnesota House of Representatives.

In 2025, Lee won a special election to represent District 34B in the Minnesota House of Representatives. His election followed the tragic assassination of incumbent representative Melissa Hortman, which left a vacancy that needed to be filled. Lee secured his position by receiving a significant portion of the vote against his Republican opponent, Ruth Bittner. His successful campaign was bolstered by the endorsement of the DFL, which recognized his commitment to the party's values and priorities.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives, Xp Lee has identified several key areas of focus that reflect the needs and interests of his constituents in District 34B. Among his top priorities are healthcare, education, and infrastructure. These issues are critical to the well-being of the community and align with the broader goals of the DFL party, which emphasizes social equity and access to essential services.

Lee has expressed support for the development of a planned biotechnology district in Brooklyn Park, which aims to foster innovation and economic growth in the region. This initiative is expected to create jobs and enhance the local economy, making it a significant focus of his legislative agenda. Additionally, he advocates for the conversion of Minnesota State Highway 252 into a freeway, a project that could improve transportation efficiency and accessibility for residents.

Another major aspect of Lee's policy focus is the planned extension of Metro Transit's light rail Blue Line. This transportation project is intended to enhance public transit options for residents, making it easier for them to access jobs, education, and other essential services. By prioritizing infrastructure improvements, Lee aims to contribute to the overall development and connectivity of his district.

Overall, Xp Lee's legislative service is characterized by his commitment to addressing the needs of his constituents and advocating for policies that promote community well-being and economic development. His background and experiences have shaped his approach to governance, making him a representative who is attuned to the challenges and opportunities facing the Hmong-American community and the broader population of District 34B. As he continues his service in the Minnesota House of Representatives, Lee remains focused on advancing initiatives that align with the values and aspirations of those he represents.