Republican Royce White, former NBA player, wins Senate GOP primary in Minnesota

Republican Royce White, a former NBA player, defeated Joe Fraser in the Minnesota primary election on Tuesday to face incumbent Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar in the November election.

“For many years, Republicans have talked about expanding our tent and focusing on the Twin Cities Metro,” White said in a statement after his win. “I am committed to growing the base, bringing disenfranchised democrats into the tent, and unifying all conservatives in Minnesota. By doing this, we will deliver a victory for President Trump this November. Together we will bring the battle to unseat Amy Klobuchar.”

Fraser, 50, was the frontrunner out of the gate, but lost at the GOP convention to White, 33, in May.

Fraser, a former Navy intelligence officer, wound up continuing his campaign against White after the convention concluded. 

Fraser did not endorse White after losing the primary election.

"While I am disappointed that tonight’s results did not go our way, I am also saddened that our ability to compete in the general election and bring about real change to our state has been thwarted by our party’s embrace of an unelectable candidate," Fraser said in a statement. "I still believe Minnesota’s best days are ahead of us. Unfortunately, with Royce White at the top of the statewide ticket this fall, those days will most likely be delayed for years as Minnesotans look elsewhere for real leadership."