Minnesota Senator Tina Smith announced on Thursday that she will not seek reelection in 2026, sparking a scramble among potential candidates in both major political parties to fill her open seat. Democrats such as Governor Tim Walz, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar, and Secretary of State Steve Simon have expressed interest in running. On the Republican side, anti-establishment populist Royce White, who lost to Senator Amy Klobuchar in 2024, has announced that he will challenge Smith. Other potential Republican candidates include state Rep. Kristin Robbins, state Sens. Karin Housley and Julia Coleman, former state auditor candidate Ryan Wilson, and attorney Chris Madel.
Smith, who was initially appointed to complete the term of Senator Al Franken, cited personal reasons for her decision not to run for reelection, emphasizing the need for strong progressive leadership in the country. Despite the challenges facing Democrats in the Senate, Smith expressed confidence in the bench of political talent in Minnesota that is ready to step up. Former U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips has already confirmed that he will not run.
Fellow Democrats and colleagues paid tribute to Smith’s long years of service and leadership in the Senate. Governor Walz praised her accomplishments, while Senator Klobuchar referred to her as a longtime friend with a lasting legacy. Senate Democrats’ leader Chuck Schumer expressed confidence in keeping Smith’s seat blue. The race for the open Senate seat in Minnesota is expected to be highly competitive, with a diverse array of candidates vying for the position.
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