Minnesota GOP gubernatorial candidate suspends campaign after daughter found stabbed to death

Minnesota GOP gubernatorial candidate Jeff Johnson suspended his campaign after his daughter was found stabbed to death in her home.Hallie Marie Tobler, 22, was identified on Saturday when St. Cloud Police officers responded to a reported medical emergency and discovered her dead inside a locked apartment, People reported.
Her husband, 23-year-old Dylan Michael Tobler, was found alive in the home with stab wounds that police believe were self-inflicted, according to a press release. He remains in police custody in stable condition at St. Cloud Hospital and is expected to be transported to jail and face charges in connection with his wife’s homicide.
Johnson, a former St. Cloud city councilman who was running in the GOP primary race for this year’s gubernatorial election, dropped out of the race following his daughter’s death.
“There are no words that can adequately express the sorrow we feel for Jeff and his family,” the Minnesota Republican Party said in a statement on Monday. “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,” the party announced. “We ask all Minnesotans to join us in lifting up the Johnson family during this incredibly painful time.”
Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar, who is seen as the frontrunner in Minnesota’s gubernatorial race, posted on X regarding the news of Hallie Marie Tobler’s death, “My condolences to Jeff Johnson and his entire family for the loss of their daughter on Saturday night. John and I are praying for all those who loved her during this unimaginably difficult time.”
Minnesota state Rep. Kristin Robbins, who was running against Johnson in the GOP primary, posted on X, “I am heartbroken for Jeff & his family over this horrifying tragedy. I can’t imagine their grief. Please join Brent & me in praying for Jeff & his family. May God be their refuge & strength in the days ahead.”
Johnson was one of several candidates running in the GOP gubernatorial primary, which also includes MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell and retired MMA fighter Brad Kohler.
Former state Sen. Scott Jensen, who was the GOP gubernatorial nominee in the previous election cycle but lost to incumbent Gov. Tim Walz, also dropped out of the race on Monday, instead running for state auditor.

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