Minnesota GOP gubernatorial field narrows as several candidates drop out

(The Center Square) – The Republican field for Minnesota governor has narrowed as three candidates have withdrawn from the 2026 race, leaving Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, Kendall Qualls and Mike Lindell as frontrunners.

Former state Sen. Scott Jensen, the GOP’s 2022 gubernatorial nominee, announced Monday he is dropping out of the race to run for state auditor.

“We need to declare war on waste, fraud, and abuse. It’s time to protect your paycheck. Let’s go Minnesota,” Jensen said. “Let’s get back to work!”

Jensen joins current State Rep. Elliot Engen, R-White Bear Township, in the race for auditor. Another State Rep. Dan Wolgamott, DFL-St. Cloud, is also running, alongside several others. The current auditor, Julie Blaha, announced last year that she would not seek reelection.

Jensen’s move came less than a week after he placed fourth in the Minnesota Republican Party’s precinct caucus straw poll, receiving about 6.5% of the vote. De...