Election 2026

Everything you need to know about the local, state and federal elections in 2026.

State Sen. Sandy Pappas to retire after 2026 legislative session
State Sen. Sandy Pappas says she’ll retire rather than seek a new term in 2026. The St. Paul DFLer has served in the Legislature since 1985 — she was elected to the House in 1984 and served there until her election to the Senate in 1990.
House Speaker Lisa Demuth launches Republican bid for Minnesota governor
As the highest-ranking Republican in Minnesota government now, Lisa Demuth’s announcement will jolt the GOP field of candidates vying to take on DFL Gov. Tim Walz in 2026.
Two candidates vie for DFL endorsement in race to become next Minnesota U.S. senator
Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan and U.S. Rep. Angie Craig joined Cathy Wurzer on Morning Edition to talk about their ambitions to win the DFL Party endorsement in Minnesota’s 2026 U.S. Senate race.
Politics Friday Special: Rochester's growth spurt is driving economic, political change
MPR News politics editor Brian Bakst hosts a special broadcast of Politics Friday from Rochester, Minn., exploring how the city’s makeover plays into the regional hub’s economic and political standing.