Minnesota Gov Walz Appoints Patrick Tanis Chief of Staff as Chris Schmitter Joins Reelection Campaign

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced that his Chief of Staff, Chris Schmitter, will step down at the end of October to become a senior advisor for Walz's reelection campaign as he seeks an unprecedented third four-year term. Schmitter, the longest-serving chief of staff in Minnesota history, has been instrumental in guiding Walz through significant challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, the aftermath of George Floyd's murder, and major legislative achievements such as the state's nation-leading child tax credit, increased education funding, and universal free school meals. Patrick Tanis, a longtime aide to Walz and current deputy chief of staff, will succeed Schmitter starting in November. Tanis has a background as an elementary school teacher and has managed external relations for the governor since 2019. Walz credited Schmitter's leadership with reducing child poverty and expanding early childhood education access, highlighting his role in implementing policies centered on children and families. The transition reflects a strategic move as Walz prepares for his reelection campaign amid a tenure marked by both progressive wins and scrutiny over state fraud cases.