2018 Minnesota gubernatorial election
The 2018 Minnesota gubernatorial election took place on November 6, to elect the 41st Governor of Minnesota as incumbent Democratic (DFL) Governor Mark Dayton chose not to run for re-election for a third term. The Democratic nominee was U.S. Representative Tim Walz from Minnesota's 1st congressional district while the Republican Party nominated Hennepin County commissioner Jeff Johnson for a second consecutive time. The Independence Party of Minnesota did not field a candidate for the first time since 1994 . Going into the election polls showed Walz ahead; the race was characterized as lean or likely DFL.
Walz went on to defeat Johnson by the largest margin for a DFL candidate since 1986 , receiving more votes than any other gubernatorial candidate in Minnesota history. This was the first Minnesota gubernatorial election since 1958 in which any party won more than two consecutive elections, as well as the first time since 1998 where the party of the incumbent president lost.
Democratic–Farmer–Labor primary
Candidates
Nominated
Eliminated in primary
Withdrawn
Declined
Endorsements
Erin Murphy (DFL)
Labor unions
State elected officials
Joan Growe , former Minnesota secretary of state
Yvonne Prettner Solon , former Minnesota lieutenant governor and former state senator
Ilhan Omar , state representative
Mike Freiberg , state representative[ 32]
Mary Kunesh-Podein , state representative
Rena Moran , state representative
JoAnn Ward , state representative
Sandra Masin , state representative
Liz Olson , state representative
Erin Maye Quade , state representative
Carlos Mariani , state representative
Tim Mahoney , state representative
Raymond Dehn , state representative
Erin Koegel , state representative
David Bly , state representative
Lyndon Carlson , state representative
Linda Slocum , state representative
Karen Clark , state representative
Susan Allen , state representative
Chris Eaton , state senator
Ann Rest , state senator
Sandy Pappas , state senator
Melisa Franzen , state senator[ 32]
Matt Klein , state senator
Erik Simonson , state senator
Becky Lourey , former state senator
Frank Hornstein , state representative
Diane Loeffler , state representative
Jennifer Schultz , state representative
Carolyn Laine , state senator
John Marty , state senator
Mary Sawatzky , former state representative
Local officials
National organizations
Rebecca Otto (DFL)
State officials
Tina Liebling , state representative, former 2018 gubernatorial candidate
Individuals
Lori Swanson (DFL)
Federal politicians
Rick Nolan , U.S. representative and candidate for lieutenant governor on the same ticket
State elected officials
Newspapers
Unions
Tim Walz (DFL)
Federal politicians
Mayors
State elected officials
Clark Johnson , state representative
Rob Ecklund , state representative
Cheryl Youakim , state representative
Jack Considine , state representative
Jamie Becker-Finn , state representative
Paul Marquart , state representative
Jeanne Poppe , state representative
Duane Sauke , state representative
Leon Lillie , state representative
Mike Sundin , state representative
Nick Frentz , state senator
Jason Isaacson , state senator
Jim Carlson , state senator
Dan Sparks , state senator
Chuck Wiger , state senator
Greg Clausen , state senator
Karla Bigham , state senator
Tony Lourey , state senator
Foung Hawj , state senator
Dick Cohen , state senator
Jeff Hayden , state senator
Erik Simonson , state senator
Susan Kent , state senator
Ron Latz , state senator
Matt Little , state senator
Fue Lee , state representative[ 38]
Yvonne Selcer , former state representative
Robin Brown , former state representative
John Dorn, former state representative
John Persell , former state representative
Loren Solberg , former state representative
Ted Suss, former state representative
Ruth Johnson, former state representative
Patti Fritz , former state representative
Steve Kelley , former state senator
Matt Schmit , former state senator
Kevin Dahle , former state senator
Rod Skoe , former state senator
Tom Saxhaug , former state senator
Kathy Sheran , former state senator
Alice Johnson , former state senator
Sharon Ropes , former state senator
Roger Reinert , former state senator
Terri Bonoff , former state senator
Don Samuelson , former state senator
Mark Ritchie , former Minnesota secretary of state
Individuals
Tribal nations
Newspapers
Labor unions
Organizations
Polling
Poll source
Date(s) administered
Sample size
Margin of error
Erin Murphy
Lori Swanson
Tim Walz
Other
Undecided
Emerson College [ 49]
August 8–11, 2018
217
± 6.9%
19%
29%
28%
–
24%
Marist College [ 50]
July 15–19, 2018
439
± 5.6%
11%
28%
24%
1%
37%
GQR Research (D-Minnesota Victory PAC)[ 51]
June 25–27, 2018
602
–
17%
37%
29%
1%[ 52]
16%
Hypothetical polling
Poll source
Date(s) administered
Sample size
Margin of error
Tom Bakk
Chris Coleman
Amy Klobuchar
Erin Murphy
Rebecca Otto
R. T. Rybak
Tina Smith
Lori Swanson
Tim Walz
Undecided
SurveyUSA [ 53]
November 17–19, 2016
–
–
1%
3%
25%
0%
1%
6%
1%
3%
5%
54%
Poll source
Date(s) administered
Sample size
Margin of error
Chris Coleman
Tina Liebling
Erin Murphy
Rebecca Otto
Lori Swanson
Paul Thissen
Tim Walz
Undecided
Mason-Dixon [ 54]
January 8–10, 2018
298
–
12%
2%
6%
9%
16%
4%
21%
30%
Poll source
Date(s) administered
Sample size
Margin of error
Erin Murphy
Rebecca Otto
Tim Walz
Other
Undecided
Expedition Strategies (D-Walz)[ 55]
April 23–26, 2018
600
± 4.0%
3%
19%
27%
2%
49%
Straw poll
Straw poll ballot at the Minnesota DFL February 2018 precinct caucuses
On February 6, 2018, the DFL conducted a statewide straw poll among registered Democrats in Minnesota. Caucus-goers were scheduled to elect delegates to their party's Senate district and county conventions, which in turn will elect state convention delegates who will endorse candidates for governor, two U.S. Senate seats, attorney general, state auditor and secretary of state. Congressional district delegates will endorse U.S. House candidates. Since the straw poll the three lowest performing candidates withdrew from the race (Paul Thissen, Chris Coleman, and Tina Liebling).
Congressional Unit
Total attendance
Chris Coleman
Tina Liebling
Erin Murphy
Rebecca Otto
Paul Thissen
Tim Walz
Other
Uncommitted
1
2,577
71
355
107
232
56
1,558
4
163
2
3,501
384
202
411
656
120
1,156
4
523
3
4,291
670
202
386
827
186
1,362
8
530
4
6,072
854
297
1,111
1,227
139
1,384
11
897
5
9,519
1,019
457
1,400
1,462
537
2,363
30
1,137
6
2,375
326
115
294
587
59
590
4
375
7
2,121
124
106
274
405
172
761
4
273
8
3,873
441
277
474
1,082
263
759
8
527
Statewide
34,329
3,889
2,011
4,457
6,478
1,532
9,933
73
4,425
Percent
-
11.86%
6.13%
13.59%
19.75%
4.67%
30.29%
0.22%
13.49%
Results
Results by county
30–40%
40–50%
50–60%
60–70%
70–80%
Results by congressional district
Republican primary
Candidates
Nominated
Eliminated in primary
Withdrew
Declined
Sarah Anderson , state representative [ 72]
Michele Bachmann , former U.S. Representative and candidate for president in 2012 [ 73]
Michelle Benson , state senator and candidate for lieutenant governor in 2014 [ 28] [ 74]
Kurt Daudt , Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives (Endorsed Pawlenty ) [ 28] [ 74]
Tom Emmer , U.S. Representative and nominee for governor in 2010 [ 75] (running for re-election )[ 76]
Karin Housley , state senator[ 74] (running for the U.S. Senate )[ 77]
Amy Koch , former Majority Leader of the Minnesota Senate [ 78] [ 79]
Mike Lindell , CEO of My Pillow [ 80]
Mike McFadden , businessman and nominee for the U.S. Senate in 2014 [ 28] [ 74]
Carla Nelson , state senator[ 81] [ 82]
Erik Paulsen , U.S. Representative (running for re-election )[ 28] [ 74] [ 83]
Julie Rosen , state senator (endorsed Pawlenty )[ 74] [ 79]
Rich Stanek , Hennepin County Sheriff and former state representative (running for reelection )[ 28] [ 84]
Endorsements
Tim Pawlenty
State officials
Organizations
Newspapers and publications
Polling
Poll source
Date(s) administered
Sample size
Margin of error
Jeff Johnson
Matt Kruse
Tim Pawlenty
Other
Undecided
Emerson College [ 96]
August 8–11, 2018
156
± 8.0%
34%
–
43%
–
23%
Marist College [ 50]
July 15–19, 2018
340
± 6.4%
32%
–
51%
1%
16%
BK Strategies (R)[ 97]
June 24–25, 2018
439
± 4.7%
20%
3%
54%
–
23%
Hypothetical polling
Poll source
Date(s) administered
Sample size
Margin of error
Kurt Daudt
Keith Downey
Tom Emmer
Mike McFadden
Erik Paulsen
Tim Pawlenty
Rich Stanek
Undecided
SurveyUSA [ 53]
November 17–19, 2016
–
–
2%
1%
4%
2%
8%
19%
1%
64%
Poll source
Date(s) administered
Sample size
Margin of error
Kurt Daudt
Matt Dean
Keith Downey
Jeff Johnson
Julie Rosen
Mary G. Stephens
Undecided
Mason-Dixon [ 54]
January 8–10, 2018
218
–
12%
2%
1%
24%
4%
1%
54%
Results
Results by county
40–50%
50–60%
60–70%
70–80%
Results by congressional district
Third parties and independents
Candidates
Declared
General election
Predictions
Source
Ranking
As of
The Cook Political Report [ 100]
Likely D
October 26, 2018
The Washington Post [ 101]
Lean D
November 5, 2018
FiveThirtyEight [ 102]
Likely D
November 5, 2018
Rothenberg Political Report [ 103]
Likely D
November 1, 2018
Sabato's Crystal Ball [ 104]
Lean D
November 5, 2018
RealClearPolitics [ 105]
Lean D
November 4, 2018
Daily Kos [ 106]
Likely D
November 5, 2018
Fox News [ 107] [ b]
Lean D
November 5, 2018
Politico [ 108]
Likely D
November 5, 2018
Governing [ 109]
Lean D
November 5, 2018
Notes
^ Based on an estimated number of 4,064,389 eligible voters[ 1]
^ The Fox News Midterm Power Rankings uniquely does not contain a category for Safe/Solid races
Debates
The debate season began only three days after the primaries with Johnson and Walz participating in two debates on Friday, August 17. A third debate was held Friday, August 31.[ 110] [ 111]
Host network/sponsors
Date
Link(s)
Participants
Tim Walz (DFL)
Jeff Johnson (R)
MPR News
August 31, 2018
[ 111]
Invited
Invited
KSTP-TV
August 17, 2018
[ 112]
Invited
Invited
Twin Cities PBS (Almanac)
August 17, 2018
[ 113]
Invited
Invited
Endorsements
Jeff Johnson (R)
Federal officials
Statewide and local officials
Individuals
Organizations
Tim Walz (DFL)
Federal officials
Barack Obama , 44th president of the United States[ 126]
Walter Mondale , former vice president , nominee for president in 1984 , and former U.S. senator[ 34]
Amy Klobuchar , U.S. senator[ 127]
Tina Smith , U.S. senator[ 128]
Collin Peterson , U.S. representative[ 35]
Betty McCollum , U.S. representative
Rick Nolan , U.S. representative and former candidate for lieutenant governor[ 129]
Dennis McDonough , former chief of staff to Barack Obama
Max Cleland , former U.S. senator[ 36]
Newspapers
Mayors
Eric Garcetti , mayor of Los Angeles[ 130]
Jacob Frey , mayor of Minneapolis[ 37]
Melvin Carter , mayor of St. Paul
Rita Albrecht, mayor of Bemidji
Emily Larson , mayor of Duluth
Rick Cannata, mayor of Hibbing
Bob Byrnes, mayor of Marshall
Molly Cummings, mayor of Hopkins
Mary Gaasch, mayor of Lauderdale
Kirsten Hagen-Kennedy, mayor of North Branch
Mike Kuhle, mayor of Worthington
Mike Maguire, mayor of Eagan
Rick Miller, mayor of Waite Park
Harold Peterson, mayor of Blooming Prairie
Sarah Schroeder, mayor of Spring Grove
John Tuorilla, mayor of Columet
Nancy Tyra-Lukens, mayor of Eden Prairie
Ardell Brede , mayor of Rochester
Nora Slawik , mayor of Maplewood
Ben Schierer, mayor of Fergus Falls
Jim Hovland, mayor of Edina
Shep Harris, mayor of Golden Valley
Gary Skalko, mayor of Mountain Iron
Roy Srp, mayor of Waseca
Myron Bailey, mayor of Cottage Grove
Pat Baustian, mayor of Luverne
Bob Broeder, mayor of Le Seur
Ted Kozlowski, mayor of Stillwater
Jack L'Heureux, mayor of Mora
Charles Novak, mayor of Ely
Mark Peterson, mayor of Winona
Dennis Phelps, mayor of Westbrook
Mike Poellinger, mayor of La Crescent
Gary Skalko, mayor of Mountain Iron
Dave Smiglewski, mayor of Granite Falls
Tom Stiehm, mayor of Austin
Robert Beussman, mayor of New Ulm
R. T. Rybak , former mayor of Minneapolis [ 35]
El Tinklenberg, former mayor of Blaine
State and local officials
Mark Dayton , governor of Minnesota
Arne Carlson , former governor of Minnesota (R)
Lori Swanson , Minnesota attorney general, former candidate for governor
Erin Murphy , state representative, former candidate for governor
Jennifer Schultz , state representative[ 131]
Clark Johnson , state representative
Rob Eklund, state representative
Cheryl Youakim , state representative
Jack Considine , state representative
Jamie Becker-Finn , state representative
Paul Marquart , state representative
Jeanne Poppe , state representative
Duane Sauke , state representative
Leon Lille, state representative
Mike Sundin , state representative
Tina Liebling , state representative and former candidate for governor
Nick Frentz , state senator
Jason Isaacson , state senator
Jim Carlson , state senator
Dan Sparks , state senator
Chuck Wiger , state senator
Greg Clausen , state senator
Karla Bigham , state senator
Tony Lourey , state senator
Foung Hawj , state senator
Dick Cohen , state senator
Jeff Hayden , state senator
Erik Simonson , state senator
Susan Kent , state senator
Ron Latz , state senator
Matt Little , state senator
Fue Lee , state representative[ 38]
Yvonne Selcer , former state representative
Robin Brown , former state representative
John Dorn, former state representative
John Persell , former state representative
Loren Solberg , former state representative
Ted Suss, former state representative
Ruth Johnson, former state representative
Patti Fritz , former state representative
Steve Kelley , former state senator
Matt Schmit , former state senator
Kevin Dahle , former state senator
Rod Skoe , former state senator
Tom Saxhaug , former state senator
Kathy Sheran , former state senator
Alice Johnson , former state senator
Sharon Ropes , former state senator
Roger Reinert , former state senator
Terri Bonoff , former state senator
Don Samuelson , former state senator
Mark Ritchie , former Minnesota secretary of state
Local officials
Noah Hobbs, Duluth City Council
Renee Van Nett, Duluth City Council
Andrew Johnson, Minneapolis City Council
Abdi Warsame, Minneapolis City Council
Linea Palmisano, Minneapolis City Council
Michael Herring, Robbinsdale School Board
David Boone, Robbinsdale School Board
Pam Lindberg, Robbinsdale School Board
Anne Casey, St. Louis Park School Board
Mary Tomback, St. Louis Park School Board
Karen Waters, St. Louis Park School Board
Ken Morrison, St. Louis Park School Board
Crystal Brakke, Richfield School Board
Chris LaTondresse, Hopkins School Board
Jen Bouchard, Hopkins School Board
Betsy Tate Anderson, former Hopkins School Board
Nancy Livingston, North St. Paul School Board
Todd Rengo, Esko School Board
Jim Grabowska, St. Clair School Board
Dan Hartman, former Duluth Council
Kevin Staunton, Edina City Council
Joanie Clausen, Golden Valley Council
Gillian Rosenquist, Golden Valley Council
Katy Campbell, Hopkins Council
Valerie Holthus, Andover City Council
Christian Torkelson, Little Canada Council
Mari Daily, Moorhead Council
Nevada Littlewolf, Virginia City Council
Randy Maluchnik, Carver County commissioner
Vance Stuehrenberg, Blue Earth County commissioner
Gordy Wagner, Pope County commissioner
Reed Olson, Beltrami County commissioner
Linda Higgins, Hennepin County commissioner
Individuals
Tribal nations
Unions
National organizations
Polling
Poll source
Date(s) administered
Sample size
Margin of error
Tim Walz (DFL)
Jeff Johnson (R)
Josh Welter (L)
Other
Undecided
Change Research [ 133]
November 2–4, 2018
953
–
53%
41%
2%
2%[ 134]
–
Research Co. [ 135]
November 1–3, 2018
450
± 4.6%
48%
42%
–
1%
9%
SurveyUSA [ 136]
October 29–31, 2018
600
± 5.3%
49%
41%
–
2%
9%
St. Cloud State University [ 137]
October 15–30, 2018
404
–
50%
34%
–
–
–
Mason-Dixon [ 138]
October 15–17, 2018
800
± 3.5%
45%
39%
3%
2%[ 134]
12%
Change Research [ 139]
October 12–13, 2018
1,413
–
47%
44%
3%
4%[ 140]
2%
Marist College [ 141]
September 30 – October 4, 2018
637 LV
± 4.9%
51%
36%
6%
<1%
6%
55%
38%
–
<1%
7%
860 RV
± 4.2%
49%
37%
7%
<1%
7%
53%
39%
–
1%
8%
Mason-Dixon [ 142]
September 10–12, 2018
800
± 3.5%
45%
36%
1%
2%[ 134]
16%
SurveyUSA [ 143]
September 6–8, 2018
574
± 4.9%
47%
40%
–
3%
10%
Suffolk University [ 144]
August 17–20, 2018
500
± 4.4%
46%
41%
1%
1%[ 145]
12%
Emerson College [ 146]
August 8–11, 2018
500
± 4.6%
40%
33%
–
–
27%
Hypothetical polling
with Erin Murphy and Tim Pawlenty
Poll source
Date(s) administered
Sample size
Margin of error
Erin Murphy (D)
Tim Pawlenty (R)
Other
Undecided
Marist College [ 50]
July 15–19, 2018
876
± 4.0%
48%
40%
2%
9%
with Lori Swanson and Tim Pawlenty
Poll source
Date(s) administered
Sample size
Margin of error
Lori Swanson (D)
Tim Pawlenty (R)
Other
Undecided
Emerson College [ 147]
August 8–11, 2018
500
± 4.6%
44%
36%
–
21%
Marist College [ 50]
July 15–19, 2018
876
± 4.0%
51%
40%
2%
7%
BK Strategies [ 148]
June 24–25, 2018
1,574
± 2.5%
46%
41%
–
13%
with Tim Walz and Tim Pawlenty
Poll source
Date(s) administered
Sample size
Margin of error
Tim Walz (D)
Tim Pawlenty (R)
Other
Undecided
Emerson College [ 149]
August 8–11, 2018
500
± 4.6%
44%
33%
–
23%
Marist College [ 50]
July 15–19, 2018
876
± 4.0%
51%
40%
1%
8%
BK Strategies [ 148]
June 24–25, 2018
1,574
± 2.5%
48%
41%
–
11%
with Lori Swanson and Jeff Johnson
Poll source
Date(s) administered
Sample size
Margin of error
Lori Swanson (D)
Jeff Johnson (R)
Undecided
Emerson College [ 150]
August 8–11, 2018
500
± 4.6%
37%
32%
31%
Poll source
Date(s) administered
Sample size
Margin of error
Generic Democrat
Generic Republican
Undecided
BK Strategies [ 148]
June 24–25, 2018
1,574
± 2.5%
48%
42%
10%
Public Policy Polling (D-A Better Minnesota)[ 151]
June 15–16, 2018
717
–
46%
39%
16%
Results
Swing by county
Democratic — +>15%
Democratic — +12.5-15%
Democratic — +10-12.5%
Democratic — +7.5-10%
Democratic — +5-7.5%
Democratic — +2.5-5%
Democratic — +0-2.5%
Republican — +0-2.5%
Republican — +2.5-5%
Republican — +5-7.5%
Republican — +7.5-10%
Republican — +10-12.5%
Republican — +12.5-15%
Republican — +>15%
Trend by county
Democratic — +>15%
Democratic — +12.5-15%
Democratic — +10-12.5%
Democratic — +7.5-10%
Democratic — +5-7.5%
Democratic — +2.5-5%
Democratic — +0-2.5%
Republican — +0-2.5%
Republican — +2.5-5%
Republican — +5-7.5%
Republican — +7.5-10%
Republican — +10-12.5%
Republican — +12.5-15%
Republican — +>15%
Counties that flipped from Democratic to Republican
Counties that flipped from Republican to Democratic
By congressional district
Walz won 5 of 8 congressional districts. Each candidate won a district won by the other party.[ 153]
Voter demographics
Edison Research exit poll
Demographic subgroup
Walz
Johnson
No Answer
% of Voters
Gender
Men
48
49
3
46
Women
59
37
4
54
Age
18–24 years old
71
25
4
6
25–29 years old
63
34
3
5
30–39 years old
60
38
2
12
40–49 years old
51
46
3
13
50–64 years old
54
45
1
29
65 and older
52
46
2
35
Race
White
53
46
1
89
Black
84
14
2
5
Latino
N/A
N/A
N/A
3
Asian
N/A
N/A
N/A
2
Other
N/A
N/A
N/A
2
Race by gender
White men
46
53
1
41
White women
59
39
2
48
Black men
N/A
N/A
N/A
3
Black women
N/A
N/A
N/A
2
Latino men
N/A
N/A
N/A
1
Latino women
N/A
N/A
N/A
1
Others
N/A
N/A
N/A
3
Education
High school or less
52
45
3
17
Some college education
48
49
3
24
Associate degree
48
49
3
17
Bachelor's degree
56
40
4
26
Advanced degree
70
28
2
16
Education and race
White college graduates
61
35
4
38
White no college degree
46
51
3
51
Non-white college graduates
70
26
4
4
Non-white no college degree
74
23
3
7
Whites by education and gender
White women with college degrees
68
29
3
21
White women without college degrees
51
45
4
28
White men with college degrees
54
43
3
17
White men without college degrees
40
58
2
23
Non-whites
73
24
3
11
Income
Under $30,000
63
34
3
14
$30,000–49,999
54
43
3
21
$50,000–99,999
48
51
1
36
$100,000–199,999
55
42
3
23
Over $200,000
N/A
N/A
N/A
7
Party ID
Democrats
95
5
N/A
39
Republicans
10
90
N/A
32
Independents
51
42
7
28
Party by gender
Democratic men
94
5
1
14
Democratic women
95
4
1
25
Republican men
8
92
N/A
16
Republican women
12
88
N/A
17
Independent men
47
48
5
16
Independent women
58
34
8
13
Ideology
Liberals
94
2
4
27
Moderates
65
32
3
39
Conservatives
10
87
3
33
Marital status
Married
47
49
4
68
Unmarried
63
33
4
32
Gender by marital status
Married men
43
54
3
31
Married women
51
45
4
36
Unmarried men
52
43
5
15
Unmarried women
72
24
4
18
First-time midterm election voter
Yes
52
44
4
12
No
55
42
3
88
Most important issue facing the country
Health care
74
24
2
50
Immigration
20
79
1
22
Economy
30
67
3
18
Gun policy
N/A
N/A
N/A
8
Area type
Urban
67
30
3
40
Suburban
50
46
4
32
Rural
41
56
3
28
Source: CNN [ 154]
See also
Notes
References
^ "Minnesota Secretary of State - Historical Voter Turnout Statistics" .
^ Carlson, Heather J. (March 27, 2017). "Democrat Walz to run for governor" . Post-Bulletin . Archived from the original on March 27, 2017. Retrieved March 27, 2017 .
^ Coolican, J. Patrick (October 5, 2017). "DFL candidate for governor Tim Walz picks Peggy Flanagan, state representative from Twin Cities, as running mate" . Star Tribune . Retrieved October 5, 2017 .
^ a b c d "Candidate Filings" . candidates.sos.state.mn.us . Retrieved August 18, 2018 .
^ "Investor says he's selling St. Paul properties to run for mayor" . Twin Cities . 2017-03-22. Retrieved 2018-06-19 .
^ Stassen-Berger, Rachel E. (November 17, 2016). "St. Paul Rep. Erin Murphy announces run for MN governor" . St. Paul Pioneer Press . Retrieved November 17, 2016 .
^ "Erin Murphy taps Erin Maye Quade as running mate in race for governor" . WCCO-TV . June 3, 2018. Retrieved June 3, 2018 .
^ Coolican, J. Patrick; Golden, Erin (June 4, 2017). "Attorney General Lori Swanson joins governor's race" . Star Tribune . Retrieved June 4, 2018 .
^ Van Berkel, Jessie (February 7, 2018). "State Rep. Paul Thissen drops out of Minnesota governor's race" . Minneapolis Star Tribune . Retrieved 2018-02-07 .
^ Coolican, J. Patrick (June 14, 2017). "Former Minnesota DFL House Speaker Paul Thissen to run for governor" . Minneapolis Star Tribune . Archived from the original on June 15, 2017. Retrieved June 15, 2017 .
^ "St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman to run for governor in 2018 – Twin Cities" . December 13, 2016. Retrieved 2016-12-13 .
^ "Coleman withdraws from governor's race" . February 12, 2018. Retrieved 2018-02-12 .
^ Stassen-Berger, Rachel E. (April 2, 2017). "With detailed policy focus, Democrat Tina Liebling to run for governor" . St. Paul Pioneer Press . Retrieved April 2, 2017 .
^ Magan, Christopher (March 12, 2018). "DFL Rep. Tina Liebling drops out of governor's race" . St. Paul Pioneer Press . Retrieved March 12, 2018 .
^ "State Auditor Rebecca Otto Withdraws Campaign For Governor" . CBS Minnesota . June 4, 2018. Archived from the original on June 15, 2018. Retrieved June 5, 2018 .
^ a b Condon, Patrick (November 22, 2014). "Handicapping the next race for governor: the DFLers" . Star Tribune . Retrieved March 6, 2015 .
^ Hanna, Bill (January 23, 2016). "Sen. Bakk Holds Caucus Together, While Also Reaching Across Political Aisle" . Mesabi Daily News . Retrieved June 21, 2016 .
^ The Timberjay . Quote: "Bakk said he had been considering his own bid for governor had the party failed to endorse a candidate, but he said the recent announcement by Republican Sen. Michelle Fischbach to resign her Senate seat to run with Tim Pawlenty helped to clarify his priorities."
^ "Minnesota governor 2018: A who's who of possible candidates" . Minnesota Public Radio . Associated Press . November 21, 2016. Retrieved February 20, 2018 . ...as both parties aim to replace Gov. Mark Dayton, who has said he won't seek a third term.
^ Shepard, Steven (February 9, 2018). "Minnesota Rep. Nolan won't run for reelection" . Politico . Retrieved February 20, 2018 . Gov. Mark Dayton — himself a former senator — isn't seeking a third term.
^ Kayser, Zach (May 1, 2017). "Crow Wing County DFL convenes, thinks 2018" . Brainerd Dispatch . Archived from the original on July 1, 2017. Retrieved May 1, 2017 .
^ "DFL Rep. Debra Hilstrom joins Minn. attorney general race" . Star Tribune . Retrieved 2017-12-29 .
^ Sherry, Allison (December 25, 2016). "Klobuchar will run again for Senate, rules herself out for governor's race" . Star Tribune . Retrieved December 26, 2016 .
^ Coolican, J. Patrick (June 2, 2017). "U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan running for re-election, not for governor" . Star Tribune . Retrieved June 2, 2017 .
^ Melo, Frederick (September 18, 2015). "Is a gubernatorial run next for St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman?" . St. Paul Pioneer Press . Retrieved September 19, 2016 .
^ Kimball, Joe (May 4, 2016). "Q&A: R.T. Rybak on his new gig at the Minneapolis Foundation — and whether or not he'll run for governor" . MinnPost . Retrieved September 19, 2016 .
^ Ode, Kim (May 18, 2016). "R.T. Rybak says he's here to stay, in a city he loves like a middle-schooler's crush" . Star Tribune . Retrieved September 19, 2016 .
^ a b c d e f Stassen-Berger, Rachel E. (September 1, 2015). "It's really not too early to think about 2018. Is it?" . St. Paul Pioneer Press . Retrieved June 21, 2016 .
^ Lopez, Ricardo (March 17, 2017). "Lt. Gov. Tina Smith will not run for Minnesota governor in 2018" . Star Tribune . Retrieved March 17, 2017 .
^ Coolican, J. Patrick (September 20, 2017). "Minnesota Nurses Association endorses Rep. Erin Murphy for governor" . StarTribune.com . Minneapolis Star Tribune.
^ "Erin Murphy" . facebook.com . Retrieved August 18, 2018 .
^ a b c "Marco Rubio Endorses Jeff Johnson For Minnesota Gov" . October 24, 2017. Retrieved October 24, 2017 .
^ LBTQ Victory Fund endorsed Erin Maye Quade for Lieutenant Governor "Victory Fund Endorses 16 More LGBTQ Candidates for 2018, Including Two Historic Statewide Candidates" . Victory Fund . 2018-07-24. Retrieved 2018-07-25 .
^ a b hcarlson@postbulletin.com, Heather J. Carlson (September 25, 2017). "Political Notebook: Nelson decision coming soon?" . Retrieved May 22, 2018 .
^ a b c d "Congressman Collin Peterson and R.T. Rybak Support Tim!" . Tim Walz for Governor . April 4, 2017. Archived from the original on May 11, 2017. Retrieved May 10, 2017 .
^ a b "Tim Walz" . facebook.com . Retrieved May 22, 2018 .
^ a b Jacob Frey. "After I sat down with @Tim_Walz & @peggyflanagan months ago to talk about the election, I knew who I wanted to lead Minnesota. I'm THRILLED that they're leading our ticket. I can't wait for them to win in November & I can't wait to have such strong allies in the Governor's office" . Twitter .
^ a b Fue Lee. "Kicking off the Weekend of Action for the @Tim_Walz-@peggyflanagan Campaign at the @MinnesotaDFL North Minneapolis Office. Thank you @MNSteveSimon for the opening #OneMinnesota #MNVotesEarly #BeAVoter" . Twitter .
^ "Our View / Endorsement: DFLers have a leader in Walz" . Duluth News Tribune . August 2, 2018.
^ "Star Tribune endorsement for governor in DFL Primary: Tim Walz" . Star Tribune . August 3, 2018.[permanent dead link ]
^ a b "Education Minnesota Endorses Tim Walz For Governor" . Tim Walz for Governor . May 19, 2018. Archived from the original on May 23, 2018. Retrieved May 21, 2018 .
^ a b "Operating Engineers Local 49 Endorses Tim Walz For Governor!" . Tim Walz for Governor . February 6, 2018. Retrieved April 10, 2018 .
^ a b "LiUNA! Minnesota and North Dakota Endorses Tim Walz For Governor!" . Tim Walz for Governor . February 8, 2018. Retrieved April 10, 2018 .
^ a b "Sheet Metal Workers Local 10 Union Endorses Tim Walz For Governor & Peggy Flanagan for Lt. Governor" . Tim Walz for Governor . February 12, 2018. Retrieved April 10, 2018 .
^ a b "Teamsters Joint Council 32 Endorses Tim Walz For Minnesota Governor!" . Tim Walz for Governor . February 28, 2018. Archived from the original on April 11, 2018. Retrieved April 10, 2018 .
^ a b "MAPE Endorses Tim Walz For Governor!" . Tim Walz for Governor . April 3, 2018. Archived from the original on April 11, 2018. Retrieved April 10, 2018 .
^ a b "AFGE Endorses Minnesota's Tim Walz for Governor" . Tim Walz for Governor . June 18, 2018. Retrieved June 18, 2018 .
^ Emerson College Archived 2018-08-15 at the Wayback Machine
^ a b c d e Marist College
^ GQR Research (D-Minnesota Victory PAC)
^ Tim Holden and Olé Savior with 0%, other 1%
^ a b SurveyUSA Archived 2017-11-16 at the Wayback Machine
^ a b Mason-Dixon
^ Expedition Strategies (D-Walz)
^ Stassen-Berger, Rachel E. (May 10, 2017). "Echoing Trump's populist message, Jeff Johnson enters race for governor" . St. Paul Pioneer Press . Retrieved May 10, 2017 .
^ Van Berkel, Jessie (May 14, 2018). "Jeff Johnson picks Donna Bergstrom as running mate in governor's race" . Star Tribune . Retrieved May 14, 2018 .
^ Coolican, J. Patrick (April 5, 2018). "Tim Pawlenty makes it official: He's running for governor again" . Star Tribune . Retrieved April 5, 2018 .
^ Coolican, J Patrick (May 31, 2018). "Pawlenty picks Fischbach as running mate" . Star Tribune . Retrieved May 31, 2018 .
^ Morris, William (March 21, 2017). "Former Medford man launches run for governor" . Owatonna People's Press . Retrieved August 22, 2017 .
^ "Woodbury mayor files to run for governor as Republican" . Minneapolis Star Tribune . Archived from the original on 2017-11-30. Retrieved 2017-11-29 .
^ "GOP endorses Jeff Johnson for Governor" . Kare 11 . June 2, 2018.
^ "Giuliani Stephens names Backer to ticket in GOP governor bid" . Star Tribune . May 2, 2018. Archived from the original on May 5, 2018. Retrieved May 4, 2018 .
^ Lease, Lawrence (December 31, 2016). "MN native Christopher Chamberlin running for governor in 2018" . News Record. Retrieved December 31, 2016 .
^ Pugmire, Tim (December 7, 2017). "As Dayton weighs Franken replacement, who may run in 2018?" . Minnesota Public Radio . Retrieved December 7, 2017 .
^ The Associated Press , "Republican Matt Dean Is No Longer Running For Governor" , WCCO , January 25, 2018. Retrieved January 25, 2018.
^ Stassen-Berger, Rachel E. (July 24, 2017). "Keith Downey, former GOP chair, is running for governor with the message: 'I believe in you.' " . St. Paul Pioneer Press . Retrieved August 22, 2017 .
^ Salisbury, Bill (April 18, 2018). "Keith Downey, former MN GOP chairman, drops out of governor's race" . St. Paul Pioneer Press . Retrieved April 18, 2018 .
^ "Ramsey County Commissioner Blake Huffman to run for governor" . St. Paul Pioneer Press . April 18, 2017. Retrieved April 19, 2017 .
^ Stassen-Berger, Rachel E. (September 3, 2017). "Ramsey County's Blake Huffman withdraws from race for MN governor" . St. Paul Pioneer Press . Retrieved September 5, 2017 .
^ The Associated Press (January 8, 2018). "David Osmek says his campaign for Minnesota governor is over" . twincities.com . Retrieved January 8, 2018 .
^ Coolican, J. Patrick (February 18, 2017). "Rep. Sarah Anderson: A name for the 2018 statewide mix?" . Star Tribune . Retrieved February 24, 2017 .
^ Montgomery, David (July 19, 2017). "Michele Bachmann warns about 'radical Islam' " . St. Paul Pioneer Press . Retrieved July 20, 2017 .
^ a b c d e f Lopez, Ricardo (November 29, 2014). "Handicapping the next race for governor: The Republicans" . Star Tribune . Retrieved March 6, 2015 .
^ Montgomery, David (December 5, 2016). "GOP hopefuls for governor seek support from party" . Austin Daily Herald . Retrieved December 6, 2016 .
^ Dillon, Nora (May 25, 2018). "Emmer Files For Reelection" . emmerforcongress.com . Retrieved June 1, 2018 .
^ "Karin Housley pulls in $514K for Senate race; businessman Jerry Trooien to enter fray" . April 13, 2018. Retrieved June 1, 2018 .
^ "Morning Digest: GOP poll gives Tammy Baldwin an early double-digit lead in Wisconsin Senate race" . Daily Kos Elections . February 23, 2017. Retrieved February 24, 2017 .
^ a b Golden, Erin (September 9, 2017). "Republican women consider runs for Minnesota office — but so far, few pulling trigger" . Star Tribune . Retrieved 2017-09-19 .
^ "Pillow mogul Mike Lindell denies report he is considering run for governor" . Star Tribune . January 17, 2017. Retrieved May 22, 2018 .
^ Carlson, Heather J. (June 7, 2017). "Miller out, but plenty of other GOPers mull 1st District bids" . Post-Bulletin . Retrieved June 13, 2017 .
^ Carlson, Heather J. (October 2, 2017). "Nelson running for Congress" . Post-Bulletin . Archived from the original on October 3, 2017. Retrieved October 2, 2017 .
^ "Talking Points: Erik Paulsen & The 2018 Election" . September 24, 2017. Retrieved June 1, 2018 .
^ Coolican, J. Patrick (May 21, 2017). "Sheriff Rich Stanek running for re-election, not governor, in 2018" . Minneapolis Star-Tribune . Archived from the original on May 21, 2017. Retrieved May 22, 2017 .
^ "State Rep. Josh Heintzeman endorses Pawlenty-Fischbach for Governor/Lt. Governor" . Tim Pawlenty for Governor . June 25, 2018.[permanent dead link ]
^ Tim Pawlenty for Governor. "It's great to see one of our supporters, @SenatorJasinski, out promoting the Pawlenty-Fischbach ticket in Faribault! Don't forget to vote on Tuesday, August 14th! 🇺🇸 #mngov" . Twitter .
^ a b "Two former GOP Speakers of the Minnesota House endorse Pawlenty and Fischbach" . Tim Pawlenty for Governor . June 11, 2018.[permanent dead link ]
^ "Housing First Minnesota Endorses Tim Pawlenty for Governor" . Housing First Minnesota . May 31, 2018.[permanent dead link ]
^ "Associated Builders and Contractors Endorses Tim Pawlenty for Governor" . Tim Pawlenty for Governor . June 28, 2018.[permanent dead link ]
^ "Minnesota Chamber Leadership Fund PAC endorses Pawlenty for governor" . Tim Pawlenty for Governor . July 2, 2018.[permanent dead link ]
^ Minnesota College Republicans. "MNCRs endorse @TPaw2018 for Governor!" . Twitter .
^ "Police Officers Federation of Minneapolis endorses Pawlenty-Fischbach for Governor/Lt. Governor" . Tim Pawlenty for Governor . July 18, 2018. Archived from the original on July 22, 2018. Retrieved July 19, 2018 .
^ "Our View / Endorsement: Pawlenty gives Republicans best shot" . Duluth News Tribune . August 1, 2018.
^ "Star Tribune endorsement for governor in GOP primary: Tim Pawlenty" . Star Tribune . August 4, 2018.
^ "ENDORSEMENT: PAWLENTY IS GOP'S TICKET BACK TO THE GOVERNOR'S MANSION" . Mesabi Daily News . August 9, 2018.
^ Emerson College Archived 2018-08-15 at the Wayback Machine
^ BK Strategies (R) Archived 2018-06-29 at the Wayback Machine
^ Dickson, Janiese (May 10, 2017). "Politicians and citizens implore Minnesotans to legalize marijuana at 4/20 rally" . City College News .
^ Golden, Erin (June 16, 2018). "Legal pot advocates join Minnesota races for state, federal offices" . Star Tribune . Retrieved June 17, 2018 .
^ "2018 Governor Race Ratings for October 26, 2018" . The Cook Political Report . Retrieved 2021-04-10 .
^ "The Washington Post's gubernatorial race ratings" . The Washington Post . October 16, 2018.
^ "2018 Governor Forecast | FiveThirtyEight" . FiveThirtyEight . October 17, 2018. Retrieved October 17, 2018 .
^ "2018 Gubernatorial Ratings" . Inside Elections . Retrieved 2017-11-15 .
^ "Larry J. Sabato's Crystal Ball » 2018 Governor" . www.centerforpolitics.org . Retrieved 2017-11-15 .
^ "2018 Governor Races" . RealClearPolitics . October 9, 2018.
^ "2018 Governor Race Ratings" . Daily Kos . June 5, 2018.[permanent dead link ]
^ "2018 Midterm Power Ranking" . Fox News . October 10, 2021.
^ "Politico Race Ratings" . Politico .
^ "2018 Governor Elections: As November Nears, More Governors' Races Become Tossups" . www.governing.com . Archived from the original on October 21, 2018. Retrieved 2018-07-18 .
^ "Debates get race for Minnesota governor off to a roaring start" . Star Tribune . August 18, 2018.
^ a b "Johnson, Walz spar at State Fair governor's debate" . August 31, 2018.
^ "Johnson, Walz Participate in First Debate in Nisswa | KSTP.com" . Archived from the original on 2018-08-19. Retrieved 2018-08-18 .
^ "Almanac | Jeff Johnson + Tim Walz in the first post-primary TV debate | Season 2018 | Episode 48" .
^ Donald J. Trump. "Jeff Johnson of Minnesota had a big night in winning the Republican nomination for Governor against a very strong and well known opponent! Thanks for all of the support you showed me. You have my complete and total Endorsement. You will win in November!" . Twitter.
^ Michael R. Pence. "CONGRATS to @MNJeffJohnson & @PeteStauber on their primary victories in Minnesota last night. They are the kind of strong leaders we need supporting @realDonaldTrump's agenda!" . Twitter.
^ Tom Emmer. "Congratulations to @MNJeffJohnson and @doug_wardlow on their primary wins. Look forward to working with the entire @mngop ticket to #TurnMNRed this November" . Twitter.
^ "Former Lt. Gov. snubs old boss Tim Pawlenty, endorses Jeff Johnson" . May 4, 2018. Retrieved August 18, 2018 .
^ "Republican race for governor: Matt Dean drops out, throws support behind Jeff Johnson" , Twin Cities Pioneer Press , January 25, 2018. Retrieved January 25, 2018.
^ Tim Pawlenty. "Although the primary results were not what I had hoped, I have no regrets about the run. Am so grateful for Mary, my campaign team, supporters and friends for the great help and support. I wish @MNJeffJohnson the best as he strives to become MN's next Governor. Support him!" . Twitter .
^ Jeff Johnson. "I'm so proud to have the support of my friend, Gov. Al Quie. He just turned 95, is sharp as a tack and wears his button with pride wherever he goes. God bless you, Al" . Twitter .
^ Michelle Benson. "Update on @Tim_Walz government health care plan. @MNJeffJohnson is correct, it is not good for hospitals. #MNGov" . Twitter .
^ Mike Lindell. ".@MNJeffJohnson for MN Governor! #voteAugust14th" . Twitter .
^ Jeff Johnson. "FARMER ENDORSED. Our campaign is proud to have the endorsement of @MNFarmBureau MN Farmers are the people who move our state forward & help nourish our entire country. We're beyond excited to represent them come November! #OverthrowTheStatusQuo #MNGov" . Twitter .
^ "Job Creators Strongly Support Jeff Johnson for Minnesota Governor" . NFIB . September 25, 2018.
^ Smith, Kelly (October 16, 2018). "Minneapolis police union endorses Republican Jeff Johnson for Minnesota governor" . Star Tribune .
^ Barack Obama. "Today, I'm proud to endorse even more Democratic candidates who aren't just running against something, but for something—to expand opportunity for all of us and to restore dignity, honor, and compassion to public service. They deserve your vote" . Twitter.
^ Amy Klobuchar. "Great event at @HoopsBrewing in Duluth for my friend @Tim_Walz with a big crowd of supporters. Tim is standing up for Minnesota values and for our future. Looking forward to seeing him and @peggyflanagan win in November!" . Twitter .
^ Tina Smith. "I am SO excited to see the incredible turnout everywhere @Tim_Walz and I go. We are hopeful. We have the momentum. And we are not taking ANYTHING for granted over the next 38 days. #OneMinnesota" . Twitter .
^ News Tribune (March 12, 2018). "Nolan endorses Walz for Minnesota governor" . Duluth News Tribune .
^ Eric Garcetti. "Kicking off #EGinMN at the @MinnesotaDFL Founders' Day Dinner listening to @Tim_Walz -- a teacher and coach, veteran and congressman. Fired up by his speech, inspired by the leader he'll be for Minnesota" . Twitter.
^ Jennifer Shultz. "Looking good, Duluth! TY @amyklobuchar, @Tim_Walz & @TonyLourey for visiting with us" . Twitter.
^ "IFO Endorses Tim Walz For Governor!" . Tim Walz for Governor . September 28, 2017. Retrieved April 10, 2018 .
^ Change Research
^ a b c Chris Wright (GLC) with 2%
^ Research Co.
^ SurveyUSA
^ St. Cloud State University
^ Mason-Dixon Archived 2018-10-21 at the Wayback Machine
^ Change Research
^ Chris Wright (GLC) with 4%
^ Marist College
^ Mason-Dixon
^ SurveyUSA
^ Suffolk University Archived 2018-12-08 at the Wayback Machine
^ Chris Wright (GLC) with 1%
^ Emerson College Archived 2018-08-15 at the Wayback Machine
^ Emerson College Archived 2018-08-15 at the Wayback Machine
^ a b c BK Strategies Archived 2018-06-29 at the Wayback Machine
^ Emerson College Archived 2018-08-15 at the Wayback Machine
^ Emerson College Archived 2018-08-15 at the Wayback Machine
^ Public Policy Polling (D-A Better Minnesota)
^ "Minnesota Secretary of State - 2018 General Election Results" . Archived from the original on 2020-04-10. Retrieved 2018-12-12 .
^ "Daily Kos Elections' statewide election results by congressional and legislative districts" . Daily Kos . Retrieved August 11, 2020 .
^ "Minnesota gubernatorial election exit poll" . CNN . Retrieved November 20, 2018 .
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