Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth has won the Republican gubernatorial primary and will compete against the Democratic nominee in November to succeed outgoing Governor Tim Walz. Demuth's victory follows her decision to remain in the race after losing the Republican Party endorsement to Kendall Qualls at the state convention. Qualls received the endorsement after 10 ballots, but Demuth maintained that her legislative experience made her the strongest candidate for the general election. Additionally, she defeated MyPillow founder Mike Lindell, who had the endorsement of former President Donald Trump.
No Republican has won a statewide election in Minnesota since 2006, marking an 18-year period of losses for the party in statewide contests. Demuth expressed optimism about her victory, stating, "There is hope for Minnesota, for the change that is so desperately needed," during her election night watch party in St. Paul. She emphasized the need for reducing taxes, improving education, and addressing fraud in state programs.
Governor Walz had previously launched his reelection campaign but withdrew to focus on combating fraud in state programs, which had become a significant political issue. His departure opened the governor's race and shifted attention to Senator Amy Klobuchar as a potential candidate, altering the dynamics of the election.