SD 42 GOP Caucus Gubernatorial  Straw Poll

February 3, 2026 - Updated February 4, 2026

Senate District 42 gubernatorial straw poll of all SD 42 Republican Caucus Attendees. The poll included participation from 254 caucus goers representing all 22 precincts.

The results of the preference poll were as follows:

First Place: Lisa Demuth (39%)

Second Place: Kendall Qualls (22%)

Third Place: Kristin Robbins/Patrick Knight (11%)


SD 42 Insights

Comparing the SD 42 results to the MN GOP straw poll (comprised of ALL MN BPOUs) yields the following insights.

  • Demuth is the clear winner of the poll and the leader in the race
  • Qualls is still a strong challenger
  • Demuth's performance in SD 42 outpaced her support statewide by 7%
  • Qualls underperformed his MNGOP results by 5% in SD 42
  • Lindell underperformed his MNGOP results by 13% in SD 42

What This Means

As with the statewide results, the non-binding Caucus Gubernatorial Straw Poll provides results that help candidates understand where they stand with the grassroots base and guide strategic decisions as we move toward the endorsing convention.

  • Straw poll participants represent the most politically active Republicans in Minnesota
  • Results will influence campaign strategies and resource allocation
  • Strong showings build momentum toward the state endorsing convention
  • This is the first major test of grassroots support in the 2026 cycle

As we move forward, these results will shape the conversation and help Republicans coalesce around our strongest candidate to defeat Tim Walz’s failed policies and restore common-sense leadership to Minnesota.