What's at stake

A U.S. Senate seat from Minnesota will be decided in the Republican primary.

The nominee will face the Democratic opponent in the general election and help determine which party controls the Senate and its agenda.

Who's in play

Julia Coleman, Tom Weiler, Mike Ruoho, David Hann, Christopher Brooks, Michele Tafoya, Royce White, Kristin Robbins, Adam Schwarze, Raymond Petersen, Alycia Gruenhagen, and Jim Nash are competing for the Republican nomination.

Several are current or former state legislators; others are political newcomers with different geographic bases and fundraising abilities that shape their paths to victory.

What drives it

Fundraising, endorsements, and name recognition will determine who breaks out of a crowded field.

Voters react to debate performances, targeted TV and digital ad buys, local endorsements, and turnout in suburban versus rural precincts; a high-profile national endorsement could also move the needle.

What to watch

Watch statewide and district-level polls, reported ad spending, and new endorsement announcements in the weeks before the primary.

Also track debate dates, county convention results, late money transfers between campaigns, and any endorsements from prominent national figures that can reshape late turnout and media coverage.