Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has officially ruled out a 2026 U.S. Senate campaign, redirecting focus toward a potential historic third term as state executive. The decision comes amid rapid political realignments following Sen. Tina Smith's retirement announcement, creating one of Minnesota's most consequential open-seat battles in decades.
He loves his job as governor,Walz spokesman Teddy Tschann confirmed, signaling the Democrat's commitment to state leadership.
With Walz out of the Senate race, attention shifts to rising Democratic contenders:
- Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan
- U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar
- Secretary of State Steve Simon
Republican strategists see opportunity despite the party's 18-year statewide drought. Former Senate candidate Royce White leads a crowded GOP field including state legislators Kristin Robbins, Karin Housley, and Julia Coleman. This evolving landscape reflects Minnesota's gradual shift from Democratic stronghold to battleground state.
Walz's national profile as Kamala Harris' 2024 running mate adds complexity to his state-level calculus. His refusal to endorse primary candidates suggests a strategic focus on unifying Democrats ahead of 2026. Political analysts warn Republicans still face structural challenges, noting no Minnesota GOP candidate has cleared 48% statewide since Tim Pawlenty's 2006 re-election.
The governor's office maintains its third-term deliberations won't distract from current legislative priorities, though opponents argue extended gubernatorial tenures risk stagnation. Minnesota law permits unlimited gubernatorial terms, unlike 36 states with term limits.