GOP Lawmakers Arrested After DWI Stop Reveals Passenger's Concealed Firearm

Minnesota Representatives Elliott Engen and Walter Hudson face charges after a late-night traffic stop uncovered impaired driving and a concealed weapon.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 9:33pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A dynamic, abstract painting with overlapping geometric shapes and streaks of bold colors, conceptually representing the chaotic nature of the incident involving the two state representatives.The reckless actions of two state lawmakers raise urgent questions about public safety and political accountability.White Bear Lake Today

Minnesota state Representatives Elliott Engen and Walter Hudson were arrested early Friday morning after a traffic stop revealed Engen was driving while impaired and Hudson, a passenger, was in possession of a concealed 9mm handgun while also appearing intoxicated. The incident has prompted a rebuke from the state's House Speaker and raised questions about the conduct of elected officials.

Why it matters

The arrest of two Republican state lawmakers for impaired driving and a concealed weapon violation highlights ongoing concerns about public safety and the behavior of elected officials. As lawmakers, Engen and Hudson are expected to uphold the law, making this incident particularly troubling for their constituents and the broader political community.

The details

According to the police report, a White Bear Lake officer pulled over Engen's Ford truck around 2:11 a.m. on Friday for speeding. The officer detected the odor of alcohol and observed Engen's bloodshot, watery eyes. Engen initially denied drinking, but a preliminary breath test showed his blood alcohol concentration was 0.142%, well above the legal limit of 0.08%. The officer also found a bottle of alcohol in the backseat, which Hudson claimed was his. When the officer searched Hudson, he discovered a 9mm Smith & Wesson handgun in Hudson's waistband. Hudson had a valid concealed carry permit, but it is illegal to carry a firearm while intoxicated.

  • Around 2:11 a.m. on Friday, March 29, 2026, the officer pulled over Engen's vehicle.
  • Roughly 12 hours before the arrest, Engen and Hudson were spotted at a local bar watching the Twins' opening day game.

The players

Rep. Elliott Engen

A Republican state representative from White Bear Lake, Minnesota, who was arrested on suspicion of driving while impaired.

Rep. Walter Hudson

A Republican state representative from Albertville, Minnesota, who was a passenger in Engen's vehicle and was found to be in possession of a concealed firearm while appearing intoxicated.

Lisa Demuth

The Republican Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives, who released a statement condemning the lawmakers' actions.

Dan Wolgamott

A Democratic-Farmer-Labor candidate for Minnesota state auditor who has also been cited for impaired driving.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I regret the poor decisions that were made during this incident, and commend the White Bear Police Department for their professional response. I'm grateful that no harm was done to ourselves and others.”

— Rep. Walter Hudson, Albertville Republican

“I'm owning it. I screwed up, and I'm willing to take the blame and have this make me better in the long run because of it. I don't drink often. I don't keep it in the house. But when I do it doesn't mix well with me.”

— Rep. Elliott Engen

“The decisions made in this incident were unacceptable and fall short of the expectations I have for conduct of legislators. I will be addressing this directly with both members involved.”

— Lisa Demuth, Minnesota House Speaker

What’s next

It is unclear if Hudson will face any charges related to the incident. Engen was charged with two misdemeanors - a fourth-degree DWI and a fourth-degree DUI.

The takeaway

This incident raises serious concerns about the conduct of elected officials and the need for greater accountability when it comes to impaired driving and the responsible handling of firearms. As public servants, lawmakers are expected to uphold the law, and this episode has damaged public trust in the political process.