By Michael Phillips | Wisconsin Bay News | Election Desk
The 2026 Minnesota gubernatorial election is shaping up to be one of the most consequential in the state in years. The election will be held on November 3, 2026, with party primaries scheduled for August 11, 2026.
The race was dramatically reshaped on January 5, 2026, when incumbent Democratic–Farmer–Labor (DFL) Gov. Tim Walz announced he would not seek a third term. Walz cited the need to focus on governing and addressing fallout from a major fraud scandal tied to social services programs, opening the door to a wide-open contest—particularly on the Democratic side.
Below is a clear, up-to-date breakdown of who has announced, who is considering a run, and what to watch next as the race develops.
Why This Race Matters
Minnesota has not elected a Republican governor since 2006, but open-seat elections often scramble traditional expectations. With no incumbent on the ballot, both parties see opportunity—and risk—in a race that could hinge on turnout, candidate quality, and voter trust following recent controversies.
Candidate filing opens in May 2026 and closes June 2, 2026, meaning the field could still change quickly.
Democratic–Farmer–Labor (DFL): Wide Open Field
As of early January 2026, no Democrat has officially announced a gubernatorial campaign. However, several high-profile figures are widely discussed as potential contenders:
- Amy Klobuchar — The U.S. senator is reportedly seriously considering a run and has received encouragement from party leaders.
- Keith Ellison — Minnesota’s attorney general, a well-known progressive figure.
- Steve Simon — A statewide elected official with a strong focus on election administration.
- Erin Murphy — Former 2018 gubernatorial candidate and current Senate Majority Leader.
- Kelly Morrison — A rising figure within the DFL caucus.
Ruled out:
Former U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips has said he will not run. Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan has also declined, as she is pursuing a U.S. Senate bid.
Republicans: Crowded and Competitive Primary
Unlike Democrats, Republicans already have a large and active field, with multiple candidates officially campaigning:
- Lisa Demuth — Has announced her run and selected attorney Ryan Wilson as her lieutenant governor running mate.
- Mike Lindell — Business executive and conservative activist.
- Kristin Robbins
- Scott Jensen — The GOP’s 2022 gubernatorial nominee, returning for another bid.
- Kendall Qualls — Businessman and 2022 candidate.
- Chris Madel
- David Hann
- Peggy Bennett
Speculation only:
Former Gov. Tim Pawlenty and U.S. Reps. Tom Emmer and Pete Stauber are sometimes mentioned, but none have announced campaigns.
Third-Party and Independent Candidates
A small number of non-major-party candidates have emerged or signaled interest:
- Mike Newcome — Entrepreneur running under the Forward Independence banner.
- Bill Gates Jr. — Independent candidate previously associated with an Arkansas race.
Third-party candidates rarely win statewide office in Minnesota but can influence margins in a close race.
What Happens Next
- May–June 2026: Official candidate filing period
- August 11, 2026: Primary elections
- November 3, 2026: General election
Republicans believe the open seat and recent scandals give them a rare opening. Democrats, however, still benefit from Minnesota’s long-standing statewide voting trends, and most early forecasts lean toward the DFL retaining the governor’s office—though nothing is guaranteed.
Election Desk will continue to update this page as candidates formally announce, withdraw, or consolidate support.
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