Tim Walz has officially withdrawn from the 2026 Minnesota Governor’s race, announcing he can no longer dedicate his full attention to defending Minnesotans against fraud and criminal activity in state programs.

In a statement released this week, Walz cited the need to prioritize urgent issues facing the state over running for re-election. “Every minute I spend defending my own political interests would be a minute I cannot spend defending the people of Minnesota against criminals who prey on our generosity,” he wrote.

The governor’s candidate highlighted his administration’s efforts to combat fraud, including implementing new security protocols and hiring a dedicated head of program integrity. He criticized Republican actions in Washington, stating they were “playing politics with the future of our state” by undermining Minnesota’s child care funding.

Walz specifically addressed conspiracy theorists who have targeted childcare centers and the President’s recent rhetoric regarding Somali communities as examples of political opportunism threatening state stability. “It is disgusting. And it is dangerous,” he said in his statement.

Walz confirmed he will not seek a third term, emphasizing that Minnesota must come first. “I ran for this job so I could do this job,” he added. “Minnesota has to come first – always.”