Kendall Qualls Files Candidacy for Minnesota's 3rd Congressional District, Setting Stage for High-Profile Rematch
ROSEVILLE, MINNESOTA — On Tuesday, January 7, 2025, Republican candidate Kendall Qualls formally filed paperwork with the Minnesota Secretary of State's office to run for Congress in Minnesota's 3rd Congressional District, according to official election records. The filing occurred at the State Capitol building in Saint Paul at 10:00 AM local time, marking the beginning of his campaign for the 2026 election cycle. Qualls, a former U.S. Army officer and technology executive, stated that his platform will focus on economic growth, education reform, and public safety. The move initiates a prospective rematch against incumbent Democratic Representative Dean Phillips, who currently holds the seat. Qualls previously challenged Phillips in 2020 and garnered 43.5 percent of the vote. Political analysts indicate that the district, encompassing western suburbs of Minneapolis, remains a competitive battleground, with Qualls' campaign expected to draw significant national attention and funding. The official primary election is scheduled for August 11, 2026, with the general election to follow on November 3, 2026.