After two decades in Congress, Amy Klobuchar is facing a turning point in her political career. With Democrats now in the minority in the Senate and few opportunities for advancement in leadership, some are encouraging her to consider new options.
Following Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s decision to end his campaign for a third term amid a widespread social services fraud scandal, Democratic lawmakers and major donors have begun urging Klobuchar to run for governor. The fraud scandal has brought intense scrutiny to state programs such as autism, housing, and meals initiatives, with federal prosecutors estimating losses could reach billions of dollars.
“She’s the first choice of just about every major donor I know,” said Vance Opperman, a longtime Democratic donor. “She would be an ideal governor, she’s not too far left, not too far right, she’s a real Minnesotan. I hope she runs.”
Klobuchar’s campaign did not comment on her intentions. However, according to someone close to the senator, she is being encouraged by others and is seriously considering entering the race.
Last summer, when Walz had not yet announced his plans for re-election, there was speculation that Klobuchar might step forward if he decided against running again. At that time, she suggested it was unwise to speculate on hypotheticals: “I have been in politics and public service long enough to know that hypotheticals aren’t a good idea,” Klobuchar said during an interview at the Minnesota State Fair.
Walz ultimately launched his campaign but dropped out on January 5 after details of extensive fraud surfaced.
Some Democrats believe Klobuchar’s experience as Hennepin County attorney would make her well-suited to address these issues. Former U.S. Attorney Andy Luger stated: “She will know exactly what to do about the fraud problem… She will take it on forcefully, and effectively, and we will not have this problem going forward.”
Support from other prominent Democrats has also emerged. Michael Ciresi, lawyer and former U.S. Senate candidate said: “I would encourage her to run and I think she would be the most effective candidate… I don’t think the Republicans could beat her.”
Klobuchar won a fourth term in the U.S. Senate in 2024 and has demonstrated electoral strength across Minnesota’s rural areas. State Senator Grant Hauschild remarked: “She’s somebody that Greater Minnesota trusts.” He noted that discussions at a recent town hall were focused on whether Klobuchar should run for governor.
Despite broad support within her party, potential challenges remain regarding Klobuchar’s record as both senator and prosecutor—issues raised during her 2020 presidential bid by more progressive Democrats concerned about cases involving people of color.
Republican Party Chair Alex Plechash criticized the idea of Klobuchar becoming governor: “Minnesota doesn’t need a governor who governs like a senator – distant, insulated, and focused on messaging instead of outcomes… Replacing Tim Walz with Amy Klobuchar isn’t change. It’s doubling down on the same failed leadership and importing the dysfunction of Washington D.C., directly into our state government.”
Klobuchar has considered several political paths including possible moves up in Senate leadership or another presidential campaign; however these options may prove difficult given current party dynamics. She visited New Hampshire over the summer—a key early primary state—and acknowledged that competition for the 2028 Democratic nomination will likely be crowded.
Her current position as No. 3 Democrat in Senate leadership offers limited room for upward movement after Hawaii Sen. Brian Schatz secured support for majority whip while Chuck Schumer remains Minority Leader.
Democratic strategist Rodell Mollineau commented: “I think that losing somebody with the institutional knowledge and pragmatism…of an Amy Klobuchar would be bad for the Senate…It is certainly not the same Senate that she started in…It is a much colder meaner place with less opportunities to work in a bipartisan manner.”
Some believe serving as governor could strengthen her prospects should she seek higher office later on; Drew Littman noted: “Democratic governors are developing great resumes because they’re not trapped in a super partisan Senate…The governor’s mansion is a better launching pad if you want to run for president.”
Retiring Senator Tina Smith expects any decision from Klobuchar soon: “If Senator Klobuchar decides to run for governor I can’t think of anyone better to really step up in this moment and lead our state,” Smith said.
