Vance Boelter, suspect in shooting of Minnesota lawmakers, taken into custody in Sibley County

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Gov. Tim Walz said Wednesday he’s staying out of Minnesota’s open U.S. Senate race in more ways than one.

The two-term Democratic candidate has ruled himself out as a candidate for the seat in 2026. And he told MPR News that he’s not planning to endorse another DFLer for the post. 

There’s a bit of a scramble among candidates who are vying to succeed U.S. Sen. Tina Smith, who announced this month 

she wouldn't run in 2026 earlier this month

“At this point in time, I don't want to have my thumb on the scale in any way, and I don't not so certain people care necessarily where you think on that,” he said about withholding an endorsement. “I just know we've got a deep bench. We’ve got good folks.” 

Walz said he’s content with the job he has now and is continuing to explore the possibility of seeking a third term. He plans to make a decision by early summer.

“Just looking at it, I think having served as governor and seeing the effectiveness we can have, also understanding it over the next four years, it's going to be really important to have states standing up,” Walz said.

Walz is currently serving his second term as Minnesota’s governor. During the 2024 presidential campaign, he raised his national profile as the 

 to hold back on their own announcements. Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan is the only formal DFL entrant; U.S. Rep. Angie Craig says she’s giving it thought as are other DFLers. Dave Wellstone, the son of former U.S. Paul Wellstone, is also considering a run.

Two Republicans — the party’s 2024 Senate nominee Royce White and retired Navy SEAL Adam Schwarze — have announced campaigns. Several others are considering campaigns.

Minnesota hasn’t had an open-seat Senate race since 2006.

Dana Ferguson

Author

Gov. Tim Walz had been weighing a Senate run since fellow Democrat Sen. Tina Smith announced earlier this month she wouldn’t run in 2026. Walz expects to decide by early summer if he’ll run for another term as governor.

Gov. Tim Walz officially rules out a run for U.S. Senate

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