In an unexpected turn of events, former basketball player Royce White has secured the Republican senate primary race in Minnesota, defeating Navy veteran Joe Fraser in what was a closely contested battle. This victory now sets up a high-stakes showdown against Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar, a political heavyweight who has held the Senate seat since 2007.
At just 31 years old, Royce White has already lived a life full of twists and turns. Born in Minneapolis, White first gained widespread recognition as Mr. Basketball in Minnesota in 2009. His talent on the court led to him being selected No. 16 overall in the 2012 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets. However, his promising NBA career took an unexpected dive. Plagued by a fear of flying and mental health issues, White never played an official game for the Rockets.
In the summer of 2013, White was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers. Yet, he never had the opportunity to demonstrate his skills, as the 76ers waived him before he could make his debut. Short stints with the Sacramento Kings followed, where White signed multiple 10-day contracts and appeared in three games. He eventually found success north of the border, winning the MVP award in the Canadian National Basketball League (NBL) in 2017. He also took part in the BIG3 basketball league, showcasing his resilience and adaptability on the court.
Off the court, White has not shied away from controversy. In 2022, he attempted to challenge Democratic Congresswoman Ilhan Omar but lost in the Republican primary. Additionally, he has faced strong criticism over derogatory comments about women, Jewish people, and the LGBT community, earning him a reputation as a polarizing figure. Allegations regarding his promotion of conspiracy theories and the misappropriation of campaign funds have also followed him into the political arena.
Despite these controversies, White’s campaign has spotlighted issues such as mental health advocacy — a topic he has personal experience with, given his own struggles during his NBA career. His journey from the hardwood to the political stage is emblematic of his resilient spirit, even as critics question whether his divisive past might weigh down his ambitions.
As Minnesota prepares for the November 5 Senate race, all eyes will be on the matchup between White and Klobuchar. Klobuchar, a seasoned senator with a longstanding tenure, remains a formidable opponent. Her experience and political clout are well-noted, making this race one to watch closely.
Royce White's ability to pivot from basketball to politics underscores his determination and versatility. Whether his past controversies will impact his chances or whether his message of mental health advocacy will resonate with voters remains to be seen. Regardless, his entry into the political arena marks a new chapter in an already eventful life, promising an intriguing and hard-fought battle come November.