Senator Amy Klobuchar has officially filed paperwork to run for governor of Minnesota, following Governor Tim Walz’s unexpected decision not to seek a third term.
Walz, the 2024 Democratic vice presidential nominee, withdrew from the race amid scandals relating to fraud in state social services and Republican criticism, despite once being considered an influential party figure.
The big picture: Klobuchar’s formal campaign announcement is expected soon; her candidacy is likely to clear the field in the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party primary.
- Keith Ellison, Minnesota’s Attorney General, has announced he will run for reelection rather than seek the governorship.
- Klobuchar has served nearly two decades in the Senate and previously ran for president in 2020.
- She would not need to give up her Senate seat to campaign but could appoint her own replacement if she wins the governorship.
The other side: The Republican field includes Lisa Demuth (Minnesota House Speaker), Scott Jensen (2022 GOP nominee for governor), and MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell.
- Republicans have already begun linking Klobuchar to Walz’s scandals, suggesting a Democratic victory would mean continuity with his administration.
