Republican Minnesota state Rep. Kristin Robbins announced on Friday that she is dropping out of the gubernatorial race to replace Gov. Tim Walz. Robbins, who chairs the House Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight Committee, cited the entry of Sen. Amy Klobuchar as a key factor in her decision.
Robbins told Fox News Digital that she initially entered the race to challenge Walz, whom she criticized for his handling of fraud allegations. She stated that Klobuchar's candidacy made the race more difficult for her, as the senator brought significant political backing and name recognition. Robbins also mentioned that she did not see a viable path to victory given the current political landscape.
Walz announced in January that he would not seek re-election amid a fraud scandal that unfolded during his tenure. Klobuchar entered the race shortly afterward, positioning herself as the presumptive Democratic nominee. Robbins emphasized her love for Minnesota and her desire to find new ways to contribute to the state.
The Republican field for the gubernatorial race is now narrower, with Klobuchar as the leading Democratic candidate. Robbins did not specify her next steps but indicated she would focus on closing out the current legislative session.