Scott Jensen Shifts His Focus From Governor To State Auditor

Jensen drops governor bid, launches run for Minnesota state auditor

There was a shakeup Monday in the race for the Republican nomination for Minnesota governor.

Dr. Scott Jensen announced he is ending his campaign for governor and will instead seek the Republican nomination for Minnesota state auditor. Jensen made the announcement on his campaign website.

Jensen was the Republican nominee for governor in 2022 and finished fourth in last week’s GOP caucus straw polls.

Get our free mobile app

Campaign finance records have not yet reflected the change, but Jensen would join a crowded Republican field. Seven GOP candidates are already seeking the party’s nomination for state auditor.

The move comes as current State Auditor Julie Blaha has announced she will not run for another term.

Blaha has faced criticism from Republicans following several high-profile fraud cases involving state funds. Critics argue the auditor’s office did not move quickly enough to identify or stop fraud.

Blaha and her supporters have said the auditor’s office is responsible for oversight of local governments, while the Office of the Legislative Auditor is tasked with monitoring state agencies and spending for signs of fraud.

Jensen has said the auditor’s office needs reform and stronger accountability.

The Republican race for governor remains unsettled as candidates continue to jockey for position ahead of the party’s endorsement process.