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Whether voters elect House Speaker Lisa Demuth or Sen. Amy Klobuchar in November, Minnesota's next governor will be a woman. That's never happened before. But for the last 43 years, all Minnesota's lieutenant governors have been women. 

Marlene Johnson (DFL) started the trend as the state's first female lieutenant governor. She served in the role alongside former governor Rudy Perpich from 1983 to 1991. In 2024, she published a book, “Rise to the Challenge: A Memoir of Politics, Leadership and Love.” 

Johnson joined MPR News host Nina Moini and politics editor Brian Bakst to talk about this moment. 

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

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We attempt to make transcripts for Minnesota Now available the next business day after a broadcast. When ready they will appear here.

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After Democrat Amy Klobuchar and Republican Lisa Demuth won their parties’ primaries, Minnesota is about to get its first woman governor. Marlene Johnson became the first Lieutenant Governor in 1983 and women have held the role since, despite never winning the top job. 

Minnesota governor's race will make history, break a streak Marlene Johnson started in 1983

A woman with white hair and glasses sits for a portrait

Minnesota governor's race will make history, break a streak Marlene Johnson started in 1983

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