Tim Walz Won’t Run For Minnesota’s Open Senate Seat

The New York Times reports:

Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, who rose from relative obscurity to become the Democratic nominee for vice president last year, will not run for his state’s open Senate seat in 2026 and will instead begin the process to seek a third term as governor, his spokesman said Wednesday.

“Governor Walz is not running for the United States Senate,” said Teddy Tschann, Mr. Walz’s spokesman. “He loves his job as governor and he’s exploring the possibility of another term to continue his work to make Minnesota the best state in the country for kids.”

By staying out of the contest to replace Senator Tina Smith, a Minnesota Democrat who is not seeking re-election in 2026, Mr. Walz effectively kicks off a primary contest for the Senate seat that could be competitive should Republicans field a well-financed candidate.

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A spokesperson says Walz is proud of the DFL’s “deep bench of talent” in Minnesota and is excited to see who the voters elect. https://t.co/Hw027oJtna

— KSTP (@KSTP) February 26, 2025