Walz Considers Third Gubernatorial Run Over US Senate Bid
Governor Tim Walz, a Democrat, will not seek Minnesota’s open U.S. Senate seat in 2026, instead opting to consider a third term as governor. This decision follows Senator Tina Smith’s announcement that she will not seek reelection, leaving the seat open and prompting interest from several Democrats, including Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, and Representatives Ilhan Omar and Angie Craig. While Republicans already have several candidates vying for the Senate seat, including Royce White, Walz’s decision significantly impacts the Democratic field. His potential third term as governor would make him Minnesota’s longest-serving governor since Rudy Perpich.
John Q. Hosedrinker