FOX News Moves Minnesota Governor’s Race From “Lean Democrat” To “Toss Up”

With former GOP Governor Tim Pawlenty shaking up the 2018 Minnesota gubernatorial race, raising a million dollars soon after launching his campaign, FOX News is joining other ratings agencies and moving the governor’s race from “Lean Democrat” to a “Toss Up.”

FOX News’ updated “Power Rankings” recognize growing Republican strength in the Midwest. Pawlenty is making “headway in his bid to return” to office, and Democrat Tim Walz is facing a “rough” primary, forcing him to move to the far left on issues like the Second Amendment, Obamacare, and immigration. Walz has also come under fire for making disparaging comments against rural Minnesotans, attacking rural areas as “mostly rocks and cows.”

“We’re moving the race from ‘Lean Democrat’ to ‘Toss Up,’ reports FOX News. They join Larry Sabato’s Crystal Ball and the Cook Political Report in rating the Minnesota governor’s race as a “Toss Up.”

National Democrats already appear worried about losing Minnesota, with the DNC announcing Friday that it will give the Minnesota DFL $100,000 for “rural outreach,” following Walz’ insult against rural voters.

With Minnesota trending red, numerous competitive congressional races, and a top-tier Republican gubernatorial candidate, the Minnesota governor’s race is a top pick up opportunity for Republicans this November.