Republican Candidate Chris Madel Ends Minnesota Gubernatorial Bid Amid Controversy

Tue Jan 27 2026 08:37:14 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Chris Madel, a Republican candidate for Minnesota governor, has unexpectedly withdrawn from the race, citing his concerns over federal immigration tactics and the fear they instill in communities of color.

Chris Madel, a Republican candidate for governor of Minnesota, announced the end of his campaign in a surprising video. His decision followed a series of fatal incidents involving ICE officers, prompting calls from within the Republican Party to investigate their actions. Madel, despite supporting the deportation of dangerous individuals, criticized the aggressive enforcement tactics used by the Trump administration as 'an unmitigated disaster.' He shared concerns about the impact on U.S. citizens, particularly those of color, who feel they have to prove their citizenship amid federal actions described as unconstitutional.

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Chris Madel, a Republican candidate for Minnesota governor, has unexpectedly ended his campaign following controversial events surrounding federal immigration enforcement in the state. In a video announcement, Madel expressed his concerns over the aggressive tactics used by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which have generated significant backlash within Republican circles.

The announcement comes in the wake of two high-profile shootings involving ICE officers, including the recent death of Renee Good, which have instigated widespread calls for accountability and reassessment of federal immigration strategies in Minnesota. Madel's video stated that he cannot endorse actions that threaten citizens, particularly those of color, which he believes further exacerbates racial tensions and insecurity within communities.

Madel emphasized his position that while deportations targeting serious criminals are necessary, the current approach by the Trump administration is detrimental. Calling the enforcement operation 'an unmitigated disaster,' he stated: 'I cannot support the national Republicans’ stated retribution on the citizens of our state.' His comments underscore a growing divide within the GOP regarding immigration policies.

In his video, he highlighted that U.S. citizens, especially from marginalized backgrounds, are living in fear of being detained, and this situation is morally unacceptable. United States citizens are carrying papers to prove their citizenship. That's wrong, Madel remarked, addressing that the fear is palpable among law enforcement communities, notably Asian and Hispanic officers who have reported being harassed by federal agents.

Madel, who has a background as a lawyer with significant experience, initially entered the gubernatorial race on December 1. He criticized the broader party approach, reflecting on the fundamental principles he believes should govern Republican values.

His exit from the race shifts the focus back to the remaining candidates vying for the position, including Mike Lindell, Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, and state Rep. Kristin Robbins. The political landscape has dramatically changed since Gov. Tim Walz announced his decision not to seek re-election, previously seen as a key focus in the gubernatorial race. With the GOP now addressing the implications of immigration enforcement, Madel's departure could influence voter sentiment ahead of the upcoming elections.