Dana Ferguson

The second-term governor says he's starting the federal campaign effort to get more Democratic candidates to run in rural districts around the country.

He pointed to his time serving southern Minnesota in Congress after flipping the district from red to blue.

And he says other teachers, nurses, laborers, and veterans could pick up the mantle for Democrats if they opted to run where they live.

Walz is not seeking a third term as governor.

Some of his remaining campaign funds could help boost prospective candidates.

The governor says Republican policies have hurt small towns and Democrats can help bring jobs and keep rural hospitals open.

Minnesota Republicans say walls and Democrats have lost touch with rural voters.

For NPR News, I'm Dana Ferguson in St.

Paul.

Minnesota State Patrol estimated that 100,000 people gathered for the No Kings rally at the state capitol.

Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin was at the rally and says Democrats will work to channel the enthusiasm toward midterm elections.

Organizers also encourage people to sign up to report concerns at polling places this fall.

For NPR News, I'm Dana Ferguson in St.

Paul.

Governor Walz expressed pride in Minnesotans' efforts to stand up for their immigrant neighbors over the last two months as thousands of immigration agents surged operations in the state.

Now, he says people are dealing with trauma and economic hardship.

Wall said the state would offer financial help to small business owners affected by the operation, and he urged federal lawmakers to provide recovery funds to Minnesota.

For NPR News, I'm Dana Ferguson in St.

Paul.

Thank you, Kimberly.