Minnesota Lt. Gov. Flanagan announces Senate run after Smith exits

Following U.S. Senator Tina Smith's announcement that she will not seek reelection in 2026, Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan has declared her intention to run for the open Senate seat. Flanagan, who has served as lieutenant governor since 2018 and is the highest-ranked Native woman in U.S. executive office, expressed her commitment to continue serving Minnesota. She plans to make a formal announcement later this month while consulting with her community and family. Republican Royce White has also announced his candidacy, and there are indications that Rep. Ilhan Omar may consider joining the race as well. Flanagan praised Senator Smith for her role in empowering women and advocating for the people of Minnesota. The upcoming election will mark a significant shift as it opens a seat that has been held by Smith since 2017.