The results of Minnesota's primary election last week tell an interesting story on each side of the political aisle for several reasons, not least because this was a consequential primary for the state with an open governor's seat and U.S. Senate seat.
The results of last Tuesday clearly indicate the direction each party is taking heading into November's general election, considering both parties produced relatively decisive nominees despite expectations of closer contests.
DFL voters moved toward the progressive left with Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan winning decisively over the more moderate candidate, Congresswoman Angie Craig, for the Democratic Senate nomination; while Republican voters made a move toward rejecting establishment and Trump-backed candidates, notably choosing Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth over Mike Lindell for governor.
It is arguable that it will be a competitive election heading into November, with Republican endorsed Michele Tafoya facing the current DFL Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, and current DFL Senator Amy Klobuchar facing the current Republican Speaker of the Minnesota House, Lisa Demuth. While Amy Klobuchar remains the frontrunner in the governor's race, many argue that Lisa Demuth has the best chance of giving her a run for her money with her statewide profile and well-organized political operation.
One aspect not to be overlooked in all the political analysis is the historical nature of this upcoming general election: Demuth is the first Black nominee for governor, and, regardless of which candidate wins, Minnesota is guaranteed to elect its first female governor.
Here is a quick glance at the general election matchups post-primary:
- Governor: DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar vs. GOP Speaker Lisa Demuth
- Senate: DFL Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan vs. Republican Michele Tafoya
- Secretary of State: DFL Sec. Steve Simon vs. Republican Tad Jude
- Attorney General: DFL A.G. Keith Ellison vs. Republican Ron Schutz
- Auditor: DFL Zack Filipovich vs. Republican Scott Jensen
- CD2: DFL Matt Little vs. Republican Eric Pratt
View the 2026 results of the local legislative primaries on the Minnesota Secretary of State website.
For more information or questions, contact Tara Mack.
Public Policy SpecialistTara is an effective advocate for complex policy issues and has extensive experience in legislation and public policy.