Frank Rondel
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, a Democrat, announced on Monday that he would no longer pursue a third term in the 2026 gubernatorial election, stating that he could not devote the necessary focus to a campaign while defending the state against recent allegations of fraud and ongoing political attacks, including criticism from former President Donald Trump, according to Customreceipt with reference to ABC News.
In a statement issued Monday, Walz recalled his September announcement in which he expressed intent to run for a historic third term as Minnesota’s governor, noting his confidence that, with full effort, he could achieve reelection. However, after discussions with his family and staff during the holiday period, he concluded that a political campaign would divert attention from addressing serious challenges facing Minnesota, including criminal activity targeting state programs and divisive rhetoric from political opponents.
Walz, who served as Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate in the 2024 election, had recently faced scrutiny regarding alleged fraud in Minnesota child-care centers. He emphasized that the state continues to investigate these claims and warned that public discourse framing the Somali community in relation to the allegations could put residents at risk.
“I know this news may come as a surprise. But I am stepping aside from the race without sadness or regret. I did not pursue this office for personal gain, but to serve the people of Minnesota. The state faces significant challenges in 2026, and I cannot devote even one minute to political campaigning without compromising our efforts. Minnesota must come first—always,” Walz stated.
Walz has also been a frequent target of Trump’s attacks, with the former president labeling him a “Crooked Governor” on social media. Had he sought reelection, Walz would have attempted to become the first Minnesota governor to secure a third consecutive four-year term. His withdrawal currently leaves the Democratic Party without a major candidate, though others may enter the race soon.
Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar reportedly met with Walz over the past weekend to discuss a possible gubernatorial campaign, and sources indicate she is receiving encouragement from multiple contacts to run. Klobuchar, reelected to the Senate in 2024, has not yet made a final decision, and her representatives have not provided public comment on the matter.
The Democratic Governors Association praised Walz for his service but did not endorse any other potential candidates. “No matter who decides to run or how much national Republicans want to spend, the DGA remains very confident Minnesotans will elect another strong Democratic governor this November,” said DGA Chair and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear.
On the Republican side, MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, a known Trump supporter, announced his candidacy for Minnesota governor in December and has already secured Trump’s endorsement. Walz also has been discussed as a potential 2028 presidential contender, although he has previously downplayed such speculation.
Regarding the child-care fraud allegations, Walz criticized Republican attempts to politicize the matter. Investigations have revealed a criminal scheme involving at least 70 individuals who allegedly exploited federally funded nutrition programs via a Minnesota nonprofit, Feeding Our Future, resulting in over $250 million in fraudulent claims during the COVID-19 pandemic. Minnesota authorities maintain that program oversight is ongoing, and recent reports indicate that facilities mentioned in online videos alleging fraud are operating properly.
Last week, a Department of Health and Human Services official stated that the Trump administration would temporarily pause child-care funding to all states, releasing funds only once states demonstrate legitimate use. Walz described these political maneuvers as detrimental to Minnesota’s efforts to combat fraud.
Republicans reacted positively to Walz’s exit, with House Majority Whip Tom Emmer and RNC Regional Communications Director Delanie Bomar issuing statements highlighting his failures and framing his withdrawal as unsurprising.
Earlier we wrote that Trump’s capture of Maduro demonstrates unprecedented US power and global reach.