This story was originally published by MPR News.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison announced Tuesday that he’ll pursue a third term, citing his desire to continue pressing back on the Trump administration and making the cost of living more affordable.
In his announcement, Ellison touted his work challenging various companies over their practices and pricing, resulting in settlements with the state. His entry into the race likely clears the field on the DFL side. In the last year, he has frequently sued over President Donald Trump’s actions that have a bearing on Minnesota programs.
“I’m running for re-election to keep Minnesota a fair place, where rule of law prevails over power and privilege,” Ellison said in a news release. “Since Minnesota elected me seven years ago, we’ve won tough fights to help Minnesotans afford their lives. We don’t bow down to kings in America, not presidents, not billionaires, not giant corporations, because everyone deserves to afford their life.”
Ellison, 62, was first elected to the post in 2018. He previously represented Minnesota’s 5th Congressional District in Congress and a Minneapolis district in the Minnesota House of Representatives.
Republican Ron Schutz, a litigator and partner at Robins Kaplan LLP, opened his campaign for the office earlier this month. Schutz was an adviser to former Gov. Tim Pawlenty. He entered the race pledging to take on violent crime and fraud in government programs.
Democrats have held the office for more than half a century; in 2026 it will be 60 years since Doug Head’s last GOP win. But Republican candidates have come close the last two times Ellison won.
Ellison said voters can expect he would stand up against Trump in a new term.
“I want you to know that I have filed over 40 lawsuits against Donald Trump since January. I will file 40 more,” Ellison said Sunday at a “No Kings” rally in Minneapolis. “And I want you to know that I’m so proud of my staff at the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office. We are holding this dude accountable every day.”
