Governor Tim Walz Wins Re-election Bid against challenger Scott Jensen

(KDLM) – Gov. Tim Walz won a second term as Minnesota’s governor on Tuesday night, defeating Republican challenger Scott Jensen.

The Associated Press called the race for Walz shortly before 10:30 p.m., although official results are still pending.

With just over 63% of Minnesota precincts reporting results, the Minnesota Secretary of State’s Office shows Walz with more than a 12-point lead.

“Minnesotans have made it clear,” Walz said during his victory speech. “They chose the hopeful future of One Minnesota where we invest in our children, where we defend the rights of individuals, where we address climate change, where we make our communities stronger, and where we welcome those seeking the comfort of Minnesota,”

In Becker County, Jensen recorded 64% (9,480) of the votes to Walz’s 32% (4,737).

Walz and Jensen have spent the last couple of months battling on issues including abortion access, crime, the economy, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the state’s handling of the riots following the murder of George Floyd.

“In America, the thing that separates us and the way we govern is we put aside the rhetoric and the heated discussions during the campaign and we find common ground,” said Walz. “I want to make sure all of us, with heart-felt sincerity, thank Scott Jensen and Matt Birk for putting themselves out there to run. I now ask to come together to solve Minnesota’s problems.”

As of 11:15 p.m., Jensen had yet to concede the race, but took to the podium to say campaigning was the most exhilarating time of his life and they’ll continue to watch results come in.