Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz suddenly put an end to his bid for a third term on Monday, amid the pressures of a growing fraud scandal in which allegedly billions of taxpayer dollars were swindled on his watch.

Walz, a former Democrat Vice President Kamala Harris’ veep pick in 2024, had launched a third term campaign back in September.

In a statement Monday, Walz said, “In September, I announced that I would run for a historic third term as Minnesota’s Governor. And I have every confidence that, if I gave it my all, I would succeed in that effort,” Walz said.

“But as I reflected on this moment with my family and my team over the holidays, I came to the conclusion that I can’t give a political campaign my all,” he added.

Majority Whip Tom Emmer released the following statement. 

“Good riddance,” said Emmer.

US Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) is viewed as top contender to jump into the race. Secretary of State Steve Simon as also a possible contender for the Democrats.

Other candidates who’ve declared to run include Mike Lindell (GOP), Kendal Qualls (GOP), Lisa Demuth (GOP), Chris Mattel (GOP), Kristin Robbins (GOP) and Dr. Scott Jensen (GOP). 

The election for Minnesota governor will take place on Nov. 3, 2026.