Sebastian Ellefson

Sebastian Ellefson earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Chicago, a graduate degree from Loyola University Chicago, and a law degree from University of Minnesota Law School. Ellefson's career experience includes working as an attorney.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a legal aid attorney who fights for working class people everyday, representing and advising on wage theft, evictions, habitability issues, and more.

I was born and raised in the Twin Cities. I earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Chicago, a master's degree in public policy from Loyola University Chicago, and a law degree from the University of Minnesota. I am a co-founder of BallotReady, a civic engagement organization that creates free nonpartisan online voter guides.

Living on St. Paul's West Side, I have been a volunteer and board member of the West Side Community Organization (WSCO). My wife, Sarah, works as an ESL teacher for St. Paul Public Schools, and my two children attend St. Paul Public Schools. I am also a board member at Cherokee Park United Church, and am the proud troop leader to my daughter's Girl Scout Troop.

I am a progressive Democrat with roots in my community. I have worked my entire career helping people- working for government, nonprofits, and cofounding my own public-interest company. When I found out Maria Isa Pérez-Vega was not running for reelection in House seat 65B, I jumped at the chance to serve people in a larger way. I will be ready on day one to pass legislation that help out all Minnesotans!

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I will fight to fight for renters' rights and hold out-of-state corporate landlords accountable.I will bolster funding for programs that support small businessesI will protect all Minnesotans against the Trump administration’s illegal ICE raids

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am passionate about renters' rights and other housing issues; in police reform including mental health crisis responders on 9-1-1 calls; and supporting our neighborhood small businesses.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

The Minnesota DFL (Democratic state party); Minnesota Representative Maria Isa Perez Vega (the current holder of seat 65B); Ramsey Conuty Commissioner Rafael Ortega; West Saint Paul City Councilmember Robyn Gulley; West Saint Paul City Councilmember Wendy Berry; AFSCME local council 5; Fairvote Minnesota; Teachers Unify to End Gun Violence Action; Clean Water Action Minnesota; DFL Senior Caucus; Friends of the Boundary Waters Action Network