Tim Walz Announces Bid for Third Term as Minnesota Governor in 2026: What This Means for the Future

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has announced his plans to run for a third term in 2026. In his announcement video, he expressed a strong desire to make Minnesota a place where everyone can succeed, no matter where they live.

Interestingly, Minnesota is one of the few states that allows governors to serve more than two terms. Walz, who was the Democratic vice presidential nominee in 2024, follows other governors like Illinois’s JB Pritzker in aiming for a third term.

While Walz is solidifying his campaign, several Republican challengers have already entered the race. Notable mentions include state Rep. Kristin Robbins and Scott Jensen, who was the GOP nominee in 2022. In the past election, Walz won by over seven points against Jensen, while in the 2024 presidential election, he and then-Vice President Kamala Harris won the state, albeit by a slimmer margin of just over four points.

Historically, Minnesota has been known as a swing state. Recently, it has leaned more Democratic. According to a recent survey by the Pew Research Center, 54% of Minnesota voters support stricter gun control measures, reflecting a growing concern for safety in the state.

This year has brought its share of challenges for Walz. He has faced significant issues, including two tragic incidents involving gun violence. In June, two Democratic legislators were attacked, leading to the death of state Rep. Melissa Hortman, which Walz labeled a politically motivated assault. Further compounding the state’s pain, two students were shot during a mass at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis last month.

In light of these events, Walz has called for a special session of the legislature to push for new gun control laws. In his announcement, he shared his heartbreak over the violence, stating, “I’ve seen how we help each other through the hard times.”

As Walz seeks re-election, there’s speculation about his future ambitions, particularly a potential presidential run in 2028. This speculation has gained traction as he visits early primary states like Iowa and South Carolina, providing commentary on why Democrats lost the last election.

In his video, Walz emphasized the importance of community, saying, “It’s in these moments that we have to come together.” His current focus on unity in the face of challenges and a desire to enhance public safety resonates strongly with many Minnesotans as they look towards the future.

For further reading on current gun control measures, you can check what the Minnesota Legislature is considering here.

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