MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota — Minnesota voters set up a November gubernatorial contest between Democratic U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar and Republican state House Speaker Lisa Demuth after both won their parties’ primaries Tuesday.
Klobuchar easily secured the Democratic nomination after entering the race when Gov. Tim Walz abandoned his reelection bid in January. Walz faced mounting criticism over widespread fraud involving federally funded benefit programs administered in Minnesota. Klobuchar has sought some distance from his administration, promising “top-to-bottom” reviews of state programs and stronger safeguards for taxpayer money.
Demuth defeated former MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell despite President Donald Trump’s endorsement of Lindell. Reuters and the Associated Press projected Demuth as the Republican nominee early Wednesday, handing Trump a notable primary defeat in a state he has repeatedly targeted.
Fraud prevention has emerged as a central theme for both nominees. Demuth has proposed consolidating oversight of state services, increasing unannounced inspections and creating an inspector general’s office. Klobuchar has proposed barring individuals convicted of fraud from receiving money through other government programs and expanding in-person inspections.
The race also creates an immediate consequence for Minnesota’s congressional delegation: Klobuchar’s gubernatorial campaign means her Senate seat is open. Progressive Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan won the Democratic Senate nomination Tuesday and will face Republican Michele Tafoya in November.
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