Luke Gulbranson is trading reality TV drama for real‑world antics “with real consequences” in Washington, D.C.
Gulbranson, a former cast member of Bravo’s “Summer House,” announced in an Instagram post on Wednesday that he is running for Congress in his home state of Minnesota.
In an ad launching his candidacy, the 42-year-old framed his campaign around rising costs, unaffordable health care, and defending union jobs in Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District.
“Hockey, family, and community shaped who I am,” Gulbranson said in the announcement video. “I know what it’s like to worry about putting food on the table or paying the electric bill. I’ve lived the challenges so many families in this district are facing right now. I’m running for Congress to make sure no one is forgotten, and to fight for an economy and healthcare system that actually works for us.”
While his campaign video doesn’t mention party affiliation, Gulbranson is running as a Democrat, according to a filing with the Federal Election Commission. He is seeking to unseat Rep. Pete Stauber, a four‑term Republican seeking a fifth term.
Gulbranson said his campaign is aimed at shifting Washington’s focus back to kitchen table concerns.
“It’s time for Congress to work for the people again — not special interests, not party politics, and not the President,” he wrote in the post.
His entry adds to a growing field of Democratic–Farmer–Labor candidates preparing to challenge Stauber in a district that has become increasingly competitive as political dynamics on the Iron Range continue to evolve.
Gulbranson said his upbringing shapes how he connects with voters, as do his ties to the region. The Eveleth native said his great-grandfather was a foreman at the former Oliver Mine and his father was a member of Operating Engineers Local 49, which represents heavy equipment operators across several industries, including mining and coal.
“I’m relatable to the people in northern Minnesota. I’m a small‑town kid. I know the hardships, I know what they’re going through,” he told The Minnesota Star Tribune.
He described himself as a “welfare kid” whose family relied on food assistance, Medicaid and Medicare.
He also told the outlet that he believes his background outside politics could help him stand out in the race. He argued that coming in as a newcomer gives him room to speak candidly about local concerns and challenge Stauber without being tied to the political establishment.
“I would love to have the DFL endorsement, it would be amazing. But the reality is, I am getting in late,” he said. “We’re going to put our best foot forward, and we will work our tails off to win the primary, go into the general against Pete Stauber and beat him as well.”
Gulbranson, who is an actor, model and small‑business owner, unveiled a campaign website as part of his announcement.
