Peggy Flanagan, Ilhan Omar, Tim Walz Eye Minnesota Senate Seat After Smith's Retirement

Sen. Tina Smith (D-MN) has announced she will not seek re-election in 2026, leading to speculation about potential candidates for the open Senate seat in Minnesota. Governor Tim Walz is considering a run for the position, though he has not made a final decision, while Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan has officially declared her intention to run. Flanagan's bid would mark a historic moment as she could become the first female Native American senator if elected. Other potential candidates include Reps. Ilhan Omar and Angie Craig, both of whom are mulling their options. The seat presents an opportunity for Democrats to maintain control, especially since Republicans have not won a statewide race in Minnesota for two decades. As the race develops, it could attract a wide array of candidates from both parties, setting the stage for a highly competitive election cycle.