The 1926 Minnesota gubernatorial election took place on November 2, 1926. Republican Party of Minnesota candidate Theodore Christianson defeated FarmerâÂÂLabor Party challenger Magnus Johnson.
Christianson was the incumbent. Challenging him was George E. Leach. Leach was unable to gain any major popularity outside of Minneapolis, St. Paul and Duluth. The Primary election was held on June 21, 1926.
Johnson was the overwhelming favorite, however Davis gained support from within the twin cities.
Christianson remained a popular incumbent, leading the Farmer-Labor to plan defensively. However, the Republicans were worried of overconfidence in their victory resulting in a low enough Republican turnout to flip the election. In response, the Republican campaign had multiple popular figures tour the state for the purpose of rallying the public to register and boost turnout. Some of those touring included Frank Clague, Julius A. Schmahl. Those running for Republican office at the time, including Theodore Christianson, William I. Nolan, Melvin Maas, and Ray P. Chase also campaigned together, touring the state and appearing together at the same events. The tour was extensive, and by mid-October each candidate had split up to speak at two towns or at minimum per day, nearly every day until election day.
Jacques ran a progressive campaign. He found support from the campaign manager for Tom E. Davis, who had run for the Farmer-Labor nomination in 1924.