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Minnesota Republicans feel good about their chances in 2026. 

They’ve got lots of opportunities to break through on the statewide map — with several key offices on the line. None is more tantalizing than the governor’s office. DFL Gov. Tim Walz is after a third term, and Republicans are out to convince voters he’s worn out his welcome. 

One of the candidates working to make that case is GOP state Rep. Kristin Robbins, who has made fraud a campaign focus from her position as chair of the House Committee on Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight. 

Rep. Robbins talks with MPR News politics editor Brian Bakst about why she’s running and how she’ll navigate a field of GOP hopefuls. 

Later, we’ll get an update on the impending closure of the Stillwater prison from Corrections Commissioner Paul Schnell. His department is under orders to shutter the facility by 2029. 

Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.

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MPR News host Brian Bakst speaks with Republican candidate for governor Kristin Robbins, a state representative from Maple Grove. Then, a conversation on the plan to close the Stillwater prison. 

A Minnesota lawmaker with focus on fraud tries to weave through GOP governor field

A state rep speaks into a mic on the House floor.

Politics Friday: A Minnesota lawmaker with focus on fraud tries to weave through GOP governor field

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