Voters in Minnesota are heading to the polls today, 11 August 2026, for primary elections that will shape the general election races for governor and US Senate. The outcomes will determine the candidates for both the Democratic and Republican parties.
On the Democratic side, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan is challenging US Representative Angie Craig for the US Senate nomination. The race has seen discussion around immigration enforcement, with Flanagan criticising Craig's past support for the Laken Riley Act. Craig has expressed regret for her vote on the act.
For the Republican nomination for governor, Mike Lindell, a pillow salesman and election denier, is competing against Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth and businessman Kendall Qualls. Lindell has received an endorsement from Donald Trump, though the state Republican party has raised questions about his eligibility to hold office in Minnesota.
Current Governor Tim Walz, a Democrat, withdrew his bid for a third term due to ongoing fraud scandals. Democratic US Senator Tina Smith has also decided not to seek re-election, endorsing Flanagan in the Senate primary.