WINONA, Minn. — A teacher at Hope Lutheran High School, Cherie Johnson, announced a soft launch — no hoopla — for the Minnesota State Senate seat from District 26. She will seek the Republican nomination. So far there are no other GOP candidates. Among Democrats there is only one announced candidate, Michael Todd of Goodview. The District 26 seat is being vacated by Republican Jeremy Miller of Winona, who served four terms. District 26 has roughly 85,0000 people, mostly in Fillmore, Houston and Winona counties. In announcing her candidacy, Johnson avoided contentious policy commitments. “I am ready for the next step in my journey of service with a focus on delivering results that matter in your everyday life,” Johnson said. “To forge a brighter path ahead for our beautiful state, we start with proven policies that will make life more affordable and reducing the tax burden for hardworking Minnesotans, deliver academic excellence in our classrooms for all children.” She did pick up on an emerging Minnesota Republican theme for 2026 “to put a stop to the theft of taxpayer dollars that should be going toward critical services.”
Johnson. At Hope High School, enrollment 50, she advises the student newspaper.
Johnson profile
She has lived in Winona 13 years with her husband Ben, a Winona native. They have been licensed foster parents. She has served on various boards, mentored church youth groups, and volunteered with animal welfare organizations.. She has written for the Nexis Family Health blog on fostering, particularly about trauma and healing. She has never held elected office
Verbatim
Johnson: “I love Minnesota and all of our neighbors who call this state home. I’m thrilled about the opportunity to run and serve them in the State Senate. Our parks, small businesses, farming communities, and lively towns make District 26 a great place to live and raise a family. I want this to be a place where we can afford to raise our families, where generations stay, and where farms and small businesses can thrive. There has been one common theme throughout my work – provide a helping hand to those who need it and stand up for what is right, even when it’s not popular. \After providing a stable home for children in the foster care system, educating kids in the classroom, and engaging in our community, I have first-hand experience with the struggles that many Minnesota families face.”