Minnesota Primary: Klobuchar Favored, Senate Race Tight, Record Early Votes

Key points

• Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. for the 2026 primary.
• Amy Klobuchar faces minimal opposition in the DFL gubernatorial primary.
• The U.S. Senate primary pits Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan against Rep. Angie Craig.
• Mike Lindell leads some polls for the GOP gubernatorial nomination despite party criticism.
• Over 206,000 early ballots have been cast, a record for a non-presidential primary.

Background

This primary follows recent midterms in other states, such as Michigan and Tennessee, where party direction was tested. In Minnesota, the last major pre-primary event was the Farmfest debate, where Klobuchar emphasized governance and Republicans pushed for an outsider-led reset. The current primary continues the state's open primary system, allowing voters to choose a single party ballot.

How outlets are covering it

MPR News highlights the crowded GOP gubernatorial field and the close DFL Senate race, noting that Klobuchar is the clear favorite. FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul focuses on Flanagan's campaign messages, including her stance on fraud, ICE, and Medicare for All, and her criticism of Craig's voting record. CBS News emphasizes the record-breaking early ballot numbers, noting that over 206,000 ballots have been cast, the most for a non-presidential primary in the state's history.

Why it matters

The primary results will determine the candidates for the November general election, including the governor's office and the U.S. Senate seat vacated by retiring Sen. Tina Smith. The outcomes will shape the state's political landscape and influence national party dynamics. Record early voting suggests high voter engagement and potential for significant shifts in the general election.

What to watch

Results from the primary will be announced on Tuesday, with the winners facing off in the November general election. The DFL gubernatorial nominee will likely be Amy Klobuchar, while the U.S. Senate race will be decided between Flanagan and Craig. The GOP gubernatorial nominee will emerge from a competitive field, potentially impacting the state's political balance.