Gazelka joins governor’s race, attacks Walz on pandemic

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Republican state Sen. Paul Gazelka has joined the Minnesota governor’s race. He’s accusing Democratic Gov. Tim Walz of failed leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and the unrest that followed George Floyd’s death last summer.

Gazelka said at the state Capitol on Wednesday that Walz’s shutdowns bankrupted many small businesses and restaurants, and failed a generation of schoolchildren who fell behind.

Gazelka, of East Gull Lake, was the state’s top elected GOP official until he gave up his post as Senate majority leader last week in preparation for his campaign.

Walz told reporters he’s “quite comfortable” with defending his record on the pandemic.

Gazelka was asked about State Senator Jerry Relph dying after a post election victory party he hosted last year. Relph’s daughter blames Gazelka for his death.

“As we’re moving forward we all have to think about how we’re living our lives and what we need to do to be safe, but I don’t actually think that will be an issue. We followed all the guidelines we were supposed to,” Gazelka said.

Gazelka faces a crowded field for the GOP primary. Already in the race include State Senator Michelle Benson of Ham Lake former State Senator Scott Jensen of Chaska, dermatologist Neil Shah, businessman Mike Marti, and Lexington Mayor Mike Murphy.

Walz has not formally announced if he will run for reelection.

You can watch Gazelka’s press conference announcing his candidacy above.