Parties see path to downballot state office success

2 hours ago 17

Quick Read

DFLers have had a lock on statewide offices in Minnesota since 2011. Republicans saw an opportunity heading into this election to loosen that grip.

Attorney General Keith Ellison attracted millions of dollars of TV attack ads and his allies responded with harsh critiques of Republican challenger Ron Schutz in a campaign year that also saw other intense downballot races.

While the governor’s office remained the top prize, the slate of other constitutional offices produced spirited contests for attorney general, secretary of state and auditor. Voters get the final say on Election Day.

All three offices have been held by Democrats for years. Minnesota hasn't had a Republican secretary of state or state auditor since 2007. The last Republican attorney general left office in 1971.

The Ellison-Schutz race was one both parties put enormous effort and expense into.

MPR News helps you turn down the nois...

Read Entire Article