Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) won the Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) primary in Minnesota on Tuesday, securing the nomination to run for governor in the November general election. With 89.1% of the vote, Klobuchar defeated six primary challengers, including Kobey Layne (5.1%), according to the Associated Press. The remaining candidates—Mohammad Wazwaz, Po Vang, Ole Savior, Thomas Evenstad, and Bill Gates Jr.—received smaller shares of the vote.
Klobuchar will face the yet-to-be-determined Republican nominee in the general election. The GOP primary remains unresolved as of publication. If elected, Klobuchar would resign her Senate seat, triggering a gubernatorial appointment and a special election to fill the vacancy.
Klobuchar’s victory follows Gov. Tim Walz’s decision not to seek a third term amid scrutiny over his administration’s handling of fraud in state welfare programs. Federal prosecutors have indicated the fraud could cost taxpayers over $9 billion, a claim Walz has faced criticism for not preventing. Klobuchar has made addressing fraud a central campaign focus, pledging a top-to-bottom audit of state government if elected.
The DFL formally endorsed Klobuchar in May, citing her name recognition and fundraising advantage. She has represented Minnesota in the Senate since 2007 and previously served as Hennepin County attorney. Klobuchar also ran for president in 2020 before endorsing Joe Biden.
Republican Response
Republicans have repeatedly highlighted the fraud issue, with some calling for greater accountability. The GOP primary field includes multiple candidates, though none have yet secured a decisive lead.
General Election Outlook
Minnesota has not elected a Republican governor since 2006. Klobuchar’s general election campaign will focus on government accountability and affordability, framing her experience as key to delivering results.
The Republican nominee will be determined in the coming weeks as the GOP primary concludes.