Minnesota: what's on the November 3, 2026 ballot
Every candidate below is listed alphabetically, with party shown as text only. Open a name for their stated positions, background and recent news, each with sources.
Open Minnesota on the mapKey dates
- Early voting (in-person absentee): September 18, 2026 to November 2, 2026. Vote early at your local elections office. Some locations may have shorter hours, so check with your county.
- Deadline to register in advance (online or on paper): October 13, 2026. You can also register at your polling place on Election Day if you bring proof of residence.
- Last day to request an absentee (mail) ballot: November 2, 2026. Request it at least two weeks early so you have time to get it back. Your ballot must arrive by Election Day.
- Election Day: November 3, 2026. Most polling places are open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Some small towns open later, as late as 10 a.m.
Official election information: vote.gov
Who's running
Only the U.S. Senate and governor races are loaded so far. Other statewide offices, ballot measures, U.S. House and local races aren't loaded yet. Check your sample ballot for the full list.
U.S. Senator
This seat has a six-year term. It is open because Senator Tina Smith (DFL) is not running again.
The party label printed for Marisa Simonetti may differ from 'Independent.' Check your sample ballot.
- Peggy Flanagan Democratic-Farmer-Labor · Open seat
- Marisa Simonetti Independent · Open seat
- Michele Tafoya Republican · Open seat
Michele Tafoya is a former NBC sideline reporter and four-time Emmy winner who later worked as a conservative commentator. She launched her Republican campaign in January 2026 for… - Rebecca Whiting Libertarian · Open seat
Governor & Lieutenant Governor
Governor and lieutenant governor are elected together on one ticket for a four-year term. The seat is open because Governor Tim Walz (DFL) is not running. Running mates: Ben Schierer (with Klobuchar), Ryan Wilson (with Demuth), and Jane Kirby (with Young).
Not yet checked against the state's official candidate list. Confirm on your sample ballot.
- Lisa Demuth Republican · Open seat
- Amy Klobuchar Democratic-Farmer-Labor · Open seat
- Steven Young Green · Open seat
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