U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar sailed to victory in Minnesota's Democratic primary for governor on Tuesday. The big picture: Polling indicates that the four-term senator and 2020 presidential candidate will be a formidable contender in Democrats' bid to hold the open seat this November. Catch up quick: Klobuchar entered the race in late January, shortly after Gov. Tim Walz reversed course and scrapped plans to run for a third term. Walz's exit came amid mounting scrutiny over his administration's response to fraud targeting state social services programs. Between the lines: The late entry into the race — and track record of out-performing other Democrats statewide — helped Klobuchar avoid a serious primary challenge from the left. If she wins in November, Klobuchar will be the state's first female governor. What's next: Summer polls showed Klobuchar with a comfortable lead over all of her potential rivals, though her support was lower than the margins of victory for her recent U.S. Senate wins.
Back to Top News
Top
August 12, 2026 at 1:35 AM
It's official: Amy Klobuchar is Democrats' pick to succeed Gov. Tim Walz
Axios