Due to the health of his spouse, incumbent Governor Jesse Ventura chose not to seek re-election.

[1] In May 2002, the DFL formally endorsed Moe over rival Judi Dutcher, the Minnesota State Auditor.

Becky Lourey, a member of the Minnesota Senate, was also a contender before dropping out.

[2] Polls indicated a dead heat between Penny, Moe, and Pawlenty less than a month before the election.

A poll by the Star Tribune had Moe and Penny tied at 27%, and Pawlenty ahead with 29%.