MAPLE GROVE, Minn. — Republican Tad Jude announced his candidacy for Minnesota secretary of state. In a news release Jude said wants to protect the integrity of elections. In an oblique referenced to incumbent Steve Simon, Jude said:
“Minnesotans deserve a secretary of state who values transparency and accountability. It’s time to end the doubts plaguing our election system and rebuild confidence in every vote cast.”
Simon, a Democrat, is expected to seek a fourth term. No other candidates have come forward. Jude, age 73, is from the Minneapolis suburb of Maple Grove. He has served as a state representative and senator, as well as 11 years as a district court judge for the10th judicial district. Most recently he ran for Minnesota’s Third Congressional District against Kelly Morrison but lost. Jude also ran for attorney general in 2022 but lost the Republican nomination to Jim Schultz.
Jude. First out of gate for secretary of state.