Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz announced Tuesday that he will seek a third term in 2026, aiming to become the state’s longest-serving governor since voters moved to four-year terms in 1963. His campaign message stressed unfinished work, citing gun violence and recent tragedies as reasons for continued leadership.
Walz, 61, was introduced to a national audience when Kamala Harris tapped him as her running mate on the 2024 Democratic ticket.
He has been dogged by controversy, including comparing ICE agents under President Trump to the Nazi Gestapo, a remark he has refused to retract despite Republican criticism.
The Democrat, who was his party's vice presidential nominee in 2024, made the announcement Tuesday morning. https://t.co/icpZpDMHcT pic.twitter.com/UhiTzexoVF
— Meet the Press (@MeetThePress) September 16, 2025
The Democrat has touted progressive victories such as free school meals but faces a tougher political landscape as Minnesota grows more competitive.
On the Republican side, Kendall Qualls, Scott Jensen, and state Rep. Kristin Robbins are already in the race. No Republican has won statewide office in Minnesota since 2006.
