Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has dropped his re-election campaign as scrutiny over his administration’s handling of alleged fraud in the state intensifies.

“Minnesota has to come first – always,” Walz stated on X, adding, “Today, I’m proud of the work we’ve done to make Minnesota the best place to live and raise kids.” He further declared, “I’ve decided to step out of the race and let others worry about the election while I focus on the work.”

In a lengthy statement, Walz accused an “organized group of criminals” of exploiting state generosity and warned that Donald Trump and his allies “want to make our state a colder, meaner place.” He cited their efforts to “poison our people against each other” and divert tax dollars meant for childcare affordability.

Walz is scheduled to hold a press conference Monday morning to discuss dropping his campaign. Reports indicate Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) is considering entering the gubernatorial race, though Walz met with her Sunday to discuss potential candidacy.

Walz has faced mounting political pressure over a federal probe into a sweeping fraud scandal in Minnesota. His office confirmed he will hold an 11 a.m. news conference on Monday to address “the news of the day.”