Overview
- Multiple mid‑June 2026 statewide polls show Gov. Tim Walz at his lowest approval since taking office, roughly 39–43 percent approval with majorities saying they disapprove of his job performance.
- Analysts and poll findings link much of the drop to Minnesota’s large social‑program fraud scandal, which has prompted raids, arrests and a federal‑state task force and left many voters questioning state oversight.
- One poll finds more voters trust Republicans than Democrats to address the fraud problem, a split that pollsters say could open an opportunity for GOP candidates this fall.
- Polling shows pronounced partisan and demographic divides: Walz’s support fell most among Democrats compared with last year, and results differ regionally and by age; some surveys also put President Trump’s approval in Minnesota near or above Walz’s level.
- Walz announced in January that he will not seek a third term, the 2026 field is forming with Sen. Amy Klobuchar running and several GOP contenders emerging, and these approval numbers are shaping party strategy ahead of the August primary and November election.