Tim Walz seeks third term as Minnesota governor amid challenges

In Minnesota, on September 16, 2025, Governor Tim Walz officially announced his intention to run for a third consecutive term in the gubernatorial elections set for 2026. Following his election to the role in 2018 and subsequent re-election in 2022, Walz, a member of the Democratic Party, hopes to become the first Minnesota governor to be elected to three consecutive terms since the state transitioned to four-year gubernatorial terms in 1963. His campaign is focused on various pressing issues, including reducing health care costs, enhancing public education, addressing gun violence, and cracking down on fraud. Walz’s announcement comes against a backdrop of significant political challenges. During his first term, he faced controversies, particularly surrounding the management of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent $250 million Feeding Our Future fraud case. These issues have prompted criticism from Republican opponents, who argue Walz has failed to maintain adequate governance. In the video announcement, Walz expressed his deep concern over rising gun violence and emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in overcoming challenges faced by his constituents. The upcoming election will not only test Walz’s ability to maintain the governorship but also reflects broader trends in Minnesota politics, where recent years have shown increasing competitiveness between Democrats and Republicans. While Walz has maintained a steady Democratic base, Republican candidates for the upcoming election have announced their intent to challenge him. Former Republican gubernatorial nominee Scott Jensen and businessman Kendall Qualls are among those vying for the Republican nomination, further intensifying the political landscape. Walz’s aspirations for a third term are historic and ambitious, as Minnesota voters historically tend to favor two-term limitations for governors. As he navigates his candidacy, he will also need to respond to the criticisms aimed at his record while appealing to both party loyalists and undecided voters. His campaign strategy is expected to build on previously established Democratic achievements in areas such as education and health care, further highlighting his progressive agenda in his bid for re-election.