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Walz withdraws from gubernatorial race
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced on Monday he is ending his re-election campaign, citing a need to address a growing fraud scandal rather than focus on political battles.
Decision follows mounting criticism
Walz, who served as Kamala Harris's running mate in the 2024 presidential election, stated his withdrawal was necessary to prioritize governance over campaigning. Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, have sharply criticized his administration's handling of fraud in state social programs.
The Trump administration recently suspended federal childcare funds for Minnesota, escalating tensions over the issue.
Fraud allegations and political fallout
Walz described the past year as particularly challenging for Minnesota, blaming an "organized group of criminals" for exploiting state welfare systems. He accused Trump and Republican allies of politicizing the crisis to undermine public trust.
"They want to poison our people against each other by attacking our neighbors. And, ultimately, they want to take away much of what makes Minnesota the best place in America to raise a family."
Tim Walz, Minnesota Governor
Federal prosecutors report that fraud in Medicaid and COVID-19 relief programs has cost the state nearly $9 billion. So far, 59 individuals have been convicted in related schemes.
Controversy over childcare funding
In December, the Trump administration froze childcare subsidies for Minnesota after a conservative commentator alleged fraud at nurseries run by Somali immigrants. State officials denied the claims, and a CBS News investigation found no evidence of fraud, though it identified safety and staffing violations.
Minnesota hosts the largest Somali immigrant population in the U.S., a community Trump has targeted in immigration enforcement efforts.
Political landscape shifts
Walz's exit leaves the Democratic Party without a clear candidate for the upcoming gubernatorial election. Democrats have dominated Minnesota's statewide races since 2006, but the party now faces an open field.
Meanwhile, over a dozen Republicans have entered the race, including Trump ally Mike Lindell, CEO of MyPillow, and Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth.
Walz's legacy and next steps
Before entering politics, Walz served in the Army National Guard and worked as a teacher. His decision to withdraw comes just four months after launching his campaign for an unprecedented third term.
In his statement, Walz emphasized his commitment to protecting Minnesotans from both criminal exploitation and political attacks, stating that every minute spent on campaigning would detract from that mission.
