GOP Looking to Turn the Tide in 2026

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My guests on the ninth episode of Extremely Non-Extreme came across as optimistic about the Republican Party’s chances in the 2026 elections in Minnesota. Barring new difficulties emanating from Washington, D.C. (which he acknowledged always is possible), Brian McDaniel said “it could be a great Republican year” here, especially given that Tim Walz has decided to seek re-election. McDaniel, who has worked on numerous Republican campaigns, served as a legislative staffer, and roamed the capitol halls as a lobbyist, knows politics. He had intriguing things to say about the opening Democrats are leaving for Republicans in the state.

Stan Hamilton, who serves as the new Republican chair for the Third Congressional District (which covers suburbs west, north, and south of Minneapolis), explained his party’s approach to retaking the state’s house of representatives and senate, as well as the governor’s mansion. All could be extremely hard fought, given Republican dominance outstate and DFL control in the Twin Cities. Suburban districts like Hamilton’s are likely to make the difference in which party prevails.

Republicans and Democrats alike can learn a great deal from these two guests.