Popular candidate Jon Grunseth withdraws from the gubernatorial race. Grunseth had been affected by incumbent Rudy Perpich's mud-slinging campaign, but his candidacy was ultimately destroyed by accusations of sexual impropriety. Grunseth's withdrawal opens the door for Arne H. Carlson, state auditor, to run on the Republican ticket. Public disgust with the entire campaign helps Carlson win, and he proves to be a popular governor.