Nelsen did not finish his term, resigning on May 1, 1953 to head the U.S. Rural Electrification Administration. Former state Representative (HD 30, 1927-1935) and sitting state Senator (SD 30, 1935-1954, 1955-1963; SD 38, 1963-1971) Donald Wright succeeded him on September 3, 1954.
Nelsen was a farmer from Hutchinson and former state Senator (SD 22, 1935-1951). He would later serve as U.S. Representative (CD 02, 1959-1974).
Hansen was a farmer from Ulen and the DFL-endorsed candidate. He was a candidate for Railroad and Warehouse Commissioner in 1950 and was elected Treasurer (1955-1957) in 1954.