Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, the state’s top Republican lawmaker, has announced her campaign for the GOP nomination to challenge Governor Tim Walz in the 2026 election. Walz is seeking an unprecedented third four-year term, giving Democrats a strong advantage due to his name recognition and fundraising power. If Demuth wins, she would become Minnesota’s first female governor and the first Republican to win a statewide office in nearly twenty years. She enters a crowded primary field that includes Dr. Scott Jensen, the 2022 GOP nominee, businessman and veteran Kendall Qualls, and State Rep. Kristin Robbins.
Demuth argues that her legislative experience sets her apart, noting that she is the only Republican candidate who has negotiated directly with Walz during difficult legislative sessions. After the 2024 election left the Minnesota House evenly split 67–67, she emphasized her ability to work across party lines while maintaining a strong conservative platform. At the same time, she has launched a sharply critical message against Walz, accusing him of dividing Minnesotans, mishandling state finances, and prioritizing attacks on Donald Trump over addressing Minnesota’s problems. In her announcement, she claimed Walz “hates” conservatives and has failed the state on issues like taxes, fraud, and immigration.
Demuth also plans to seek Trump’s endorsement, a notable departure from many Republicans in blue states who avoid aligning closely with him. She argues that Trump delivered on his promises and that his support would strengthen her campaign. Although no polls have measured Demuth’s standing yet, a recent SurveyUSA poll showed Walz leading Jensen by six points, suggesting that the 2026 race could be competitive if Republicans consolidate around a strong nominee.