Minnesota Blue Dog Comeback

November 12, 2026 – Minnesota Star Tribune

Supporters celebrated as Sen. Amy Klobuchar delivered her victory speech on November 3. Could this signal a longer-term Democratic trifecta in Minnesota? Let’s explore the current political landscape.

Over the past two decades, Minnesota Democrats have twice achieved full control of state government. However, their hold didn’t last beyond the next election. They haven’t controlled both the governor’s office and legislative chambers for more than two consecutive years since the late 1980s.

Recent elections provide Democrats another opportunity to change this pattern, with victories giving them a larger cushion as they approach 2028. Gov.-elect Amy Klobuchar and state senators will not face voters for four years. This leaves the House as a key battleground in the next general election for Republican efforts to disrupt DFL’s control.

Currently, projections show Democrats holding 77 House seats, but recounts could affect this. To break the DFL hold, Republicans need a net gain of 10 seats to tie and 11 to secure a majority. Minnesota Republicans achieved similar gains in 2014 when they picked up 11 seats. This time, Republican influence may face challenges as Trump concludes his term as President.

Quote of the Day

Bartender Brian Krosch observes card players at American Legion Post 132 (Nov. 10). A local resident, Joe Stevens, humorously noted an abundance of ‘Amy Poehler, or whatever, Klobuchar’ signs, hinting at growing Democratic support in typically Republican New Ulm.

D.C. Dish

Minnesota might see a Blue Dog resurgence in Washington. Democrat Jake Johnson, seen with the Blue Dog truck, was endorsed by the campaign arm and could join their centrist coalition. Johnson’s narrow lead, if confirmed, would mark Minnesota’s first Blue Dog member since 2020.

Moves

Senator-elect Peggy Flanagan prepares her team. Jeff Lomonaco, from outgoing Sen. Smith’s office, will serve as chief of staff. Flanagan’s transition team includes seasoned professionals like Aleysha Proctor with 23 years of Senate experience.

Governor Klobuchar’s administration is in formation, paralleled by Gov. Tim Walz’s team ensuring smooth agency transitions. Myron Frans, a key figure from past administrations, is aiding the process.

One Number: 123

The vote difference between Keith Ellison and Peggy Flanagan in Minnesota’s unofficial results. Both candidates finished close to each other in the tally.

What I’m Reading

• Ex-security guard’s indictment related to Ilhan Omar – Sarah Nelson
• Rep. Tom Emmer’s House leadership challenge – Sydney Kashiwagi
• Amy Klobuchar inherits educational challenges – Mara Klecker and Ryan Faircloth
• Progress in reducing veteran homelessness – Torey Van Oot at Axios
• Republican strategies in the new DFL environment – Peter Cox at MPR News