Gov. Tim Walz drops out of 2026 Minnesota governor's race amid criticism over his handling of fraud

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz says he is dropping his reelection campaign amid increased criticism over his handling of fraud in the state.

Walz initially announced his run for a third term as governor in September, but says he reevaluated the decision over the holidays.

"I came to the conclusion that I can't give a political campaign my all. Every minute I spend defending my own political interests would be a minute I can't spend defending the people of Minnesota against the criminals who prey on our generosity and the cynics who prey on our differences," he said. "So I've decided to step out of the race and let others worry about the election while I focus on the work."...