Minnesota Senate Primary Results 2024: Top 3 Candidates and Their Impact
The 2024 Minnesota Senate Primary was a pivotal event that set the stage for the upcoming general election. With a competitive field of candidates from both major parties, the primary results highlighted the current political climate in Minnesota and offered insights into the key issues driving voter sentiment. Below, we take a closer look at the top three candidates from each party and their impact on the race.
Top 3 Democratic Candidates
- Amy Klobuchar (Incumbent Senator
Percentage of Vote: 55%
Amy Klobuchar, the incumbent senator, secured her party’s nomination with a solid majority. Known for her centrist and pragmatic approach, Klobuchar’s campaign focused on her legislative achievements, particularly in healthcare, infrastructure, and labor rights. Her victory underscored her strong support among moderate Democrats and independents, making her a formidable contender in the upcoming general election. Despite facing criticism from the progressive wing, Klobuchar’s experience and broad appal played a crucial role in her success. - Erin Murphy (State Senator)
Percentage of Vote: 35%
Erin Murphy, representing the progressive wing of the Democratic Party, ran a strong campaign advocating for bold reforms such as Medicare for All, aggressive climate action, and economic justice. Murphy’s performance highlighted the growing influence of progressives within the party. While she fell short of securing the nomination, her substantial share of the vote demonstrated a significant shift within the party toward more progressive policies, which could influence Klobuchar’s strategy in the general election. - Keith Ellison (Minnesota Attorney General)
Percentage of Vote: 10%
Keith Ellison, the state’s attorney general and a well-known figure in national progressive circles, garnered a smaller but notable share of the vote. Ellison’s campaign centered on civil rights, criminal justice reform, and economic inequality. Though he finished third, his presence in the race energized the progressive base and contributed to the broader discussion within the party about its future direction.
Top 3 Republican Candidates
- Jason Lewis (Former Congressman)
Percentage of Vote: 60%
Jason Lewis emerged as the clear frontrunner in the Republican primary, securing a decisive victory. A staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump, Lewis campaigned on a platform of border security, tax cuts, and reducing government regulation. His hardline stance resonated with the Republican base, reflecting the party’s continued alignment with Trump-era policies. Lewis’s victory positions him as a strong contender in the general election, where he will likely focus on rallying conservative voters across the state. - Karin Housley (State Senator)
Percentage of Vote: 25%
Karin Housley, a state senator with a more traditional Republican platform, finished second in the primary. Housley’s campaign emphasized fiscal responsibility, support for law enforcement, and economic growth. However, she struggled to match the appeal of Lewis’s populist messaging, particularly among the more conservative segments of the GOP. Despite her second-place finish, Housley remains a prominent figure within Minnesota’s Republican circles. - Paul Gazelka (Former State Senate Majority Leader)
Percentage of Vote: 15%
Paul Gazelka, known for his leadership in the state senate, rounded out the top three in the Republican primary. Gazelka’s campaign focused on traditional conservative values, including religious freedom, pro-life policies, and Second Amendment rights. Although he did not capture as much support as Lewis or Housley, Gazelka’s participation highlighted the diversity of views within the Minnesota GOP and the ongoing debate over the party’s future direction.
Conclusion: Setting the Stage for the General Election
The 2024 Minnesota Senate Primary results reflect the deep divisions and evolving dynamics within both major parties. On the Democratic side, Klobuchar’s victory reaffirms her status as a centrist force, while the strong showings by Murphy and Ellison highlight the growing influence of progressives. On the Republican side, Lewis’s decisive win underscores the continued dominance of Trump-aligned candidates within the GOP, signaling a potentially contentious general election battle.
As Minnesota gears up for the general election, the top candidates from both parties will need to navigate a complex political landscape, appealing to a diverse electorate in a state that has become a critical battleground. The outcome of this race will not only shape Minnesota’s future but could also have significant implications for the national political scene.