Minnesota AG Race Shifts as Republicans Challenge Decades-Long Democratic Hold

Republican Ron Schutz edges Democratic Keith Ellison in Minnesota's attorney general race, signaling a potential end to Democrats' 55-year hold on the office.

Sep 17, 2026

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Minnesota AG Race Shifts as Republicans Challenge Decades-Long Democratic Hold

Republican Ron Schutz edges Democratic Keith Ellison in Minnesota's attorney general race, signaling a potential end to Democrats' 55-year hold on the office.

In brief

Republican Ron Schutz edges Democratic Keith Ellison in Minnesota's attorney general race, signaling a potential end to Democrats' 55-year hold on the office. Schutz's two-point lead in the latest poll marks the first time Republicans have gained an edge in this statewide office since 1971. Originally reported by…

Race Shifts

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison testifies before the Senate Homeland Security Committee on February 12, 2026 in Washington,

Republican Ron Schutz leads Democratic Keith Ellison in a new KSTP/SurveyUSA poll with 45% to 43%.

“This is the year we’re going to actually end that streak.”

Historical Context

Minnesota has had a Democratic attorney general since 1971, with Keith Ellison now seeking his third term.

Campaign Strategies

Ellison emphasizes fraud fighting and affordability, while Schutz focuses on federal accountability and consumer protection.

Demographic Shifts

Demographic Shifts

Schutz leads older voters 55% to 36%, while Ellison holds a 15-point edge with young voters.

Key Poll Detail

The race has 12% undecided voters, with the two-point gap within the poll's margin of error.

Schutz's Background

Schutz is a former Army JAG Corps lawyer with a focus on fraud and consumer protection.

Ellison's Campaign

Left: Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison speaks during a Senate Homeland Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, in Wash

Ellison's 'Afford Your Life' campaign targets household expenses and affordability issues.

Federal Incident

Schutz cites the Alex Pretti shooting as evidence of his commitment to federal accountability.

Historical Wins

Ellison won by 49% to 45% in 2018 and 50.4% to 49.5% in 2022.

Race Outcome

The race may turn on whether Schutz can win over moderates or Ellison can rebuild his coalition.

At a glance

Schutz's two-point lead in the latest poll marks the first time Republicans have gained an edge in this statewide office since 1971.

Read the original on Newsweek

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