Republican candidate for Minnesota Governor suspends campaign after death of daughter

Minnesota Republican Party Logo

DULUTH, Min. – Jeff Johnson, who is running for Governor of Minnesota, has suspended his campaign for governor.

The Minnesota Republican Party released a statement saying they are, “heartbroken by the tragic loss of Dr. Jeff Johnson’s daughter, who was killed in a violent crime Saturday night in St. Cloud.”

FOX 9 is reporting Dr. Johnson’s daughter was killed Saturday (2/7/2026) evening in a stabbing inside an apartment.  According to police, the call was originally for a medical emergency, but when first responders arrived, they found the victim, 22-year-old Hallie Tobler, had been stabbed. The suspect in the stabbing, Hallie’s husband, had also been injured by what police believe were self-inflicted stab wounds.  Hallie was pronounced dead at the scene, while her husband was taken to the hospital for treatment. Deputies say he will eventually be moved to the Stearns County Jail to be held on charges related to the homicide. As of Monday morning, he had not been charged yet.

Minnesota Republican Party statement continued, “There are no words that can adequately express the sorrow we feel for Jeff and his family. The loss of a child is unimaginable, and our thoughts and prayers are with them as they grieve this devastating tragedy. Out of respect for his family and the enormity of this loss, Jeff has suspended his campaign for Governor of Minnesota. We ask all Minnesotans to join us in lifting up the Johnson family during this incredibly painful time. We also extend our gratitude to the first responders and law enforcement officers involved and ask for patience and compassion as the investigation continues.”

Jeff Johnson is currently a St. Cloud resident who was born in Chisago City.

He previously lived in Minneapolis and moved to a hobby turned dairy farm in Winona.  He was elected to the St. Cloud City Council in 2010 and re-elected in 2014.