Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, a Republican, announced her candidacy on Monday for the Republican gubernatorial nomination to challenge Gov. Tim Walz in 2026. “Minnesota is worth fighting for — that’s why I’m announcing today that I’m running for Governor,” Demuth wrote on X.

Demuth has become the biggest name in the Republican primary, which also includes Rep. Kristin Robbins, former state senator Scott Jensen, and former MMA fighter Brad Kohler, among others. Another potential contender, Mypillow CEO Mike Lindell, said he re-established his Minnesota residency as he considers a bid for governor.

Current Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced his reelection campaign in mid-September. Demuth stated in a press release that she is the only candidate in the field who has directly opposed Walz and emphasized her ability to unite the Republican Party and secure victory in 2026.

In addition to serving in the Minnesota Legislature, Demuth served on the ROCORI School Board and is a small business owner. Earlier this year, she made history as both the first Black legislator and the first Republican woman elected to serve as House Speaker.

Demuth outlined her platform, claiming she would combat wasteful spending, eliminate fraud, and stop “Democrat giveaways for illegal immigrants.” She pledged to improve school test scores, address “divisive ideology in classrooms,” invest in infrastructure like roads and bridges, and reduce regulations hindering housing development. Demuth criticized Walz’s tenure, citing rising violent crime, increased taxes, and a mismanaged budget surplus. “We need a change in direction, and I’ll provide it next November,” she said.