# Minnesota political campaign controversies > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/minnesota-political-campaign-controversies > Updated: 2026-10-22T23:33:00.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. Political campaigns in Minnesota are facing scrutiny regarding candidate ethics and the use of controversial advertising. In the race for attorney general, incumbent Keith Ellison has faced criticism over luxury overseas travel funded by the Attorney General Alliance, which opponents characterize as lavish trips paid for by corporate lobbyists. Republican challenger Ron Schutz has also faced scrutiny regarding his stock portfolio, though he has pledged to insulate himself from those holdings if elected. In the 1st congressional district race, incumbent Brad Finstad and challenger Jake Johnson have exchanged attacks involving foreign corporate donations and political associations. Additionally, advertisements targeting Ellison regarding the Feeding Our Future fraud case have come under review, specifically highlighting recorded comments regarding state agency investigations. Concerns have also been raised regarding the use of edited imagery in campaign ads, potentially violating state deepfake laws. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-22: Minnesota political campaigns face scrutiny over controversial advertisements Minnesota political campaigns are facing backlash over controversial ads, including allegations of deepfake violations in the 1st congressional district and scrutiny of Attorney General Keith Ellison. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/minnesota-political-campaigns-face-scrutiny-over-controversial-advertisements ### 2026-10-09: Minnesota attorney general candidates face conflict of interest scrutiny Minnesota's attorney general race is intensifying as candidates Keith Ellison and Ron Schutz face scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest involving corporate-funded travel and stock holdings. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/minnesota-attorney-general-candidates-face-conflict-of-interest-scrutiny --- Cite as: Minnesota political campaign controversies. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/minnesota-political-campaign-controversies