Democratic U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar, a prominent member of the progressive “Squad” and known for her criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, is facing a tough challenge in the primary elections for her 5th District seat in Minnesota. Her opponent, former Minneapolis City Council member Don Samuels, is vying for the more centrist liberal vote that Omar narrowly defeated in the previous primary.
In another key race, former NBA player Royce White, a conservative populist, is up against Navy veteran Joe Fraser for the chance to challenge Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar. The primary also features a heated contest for the GOP nomination in the 2nd District to challenge Democratic Rep. Angie Craig.
Omar’s fellow “Squad” members, Rep. Cori Bush and Rep. Jamaal Bowman, recently lost their primary races in other states. The United Democracy Project, which supported their opponents, is not involved in the Minnesota race.
Despite facing criticism in her first term for comments deemed antisemitic, Omar is actively campaigning and has raised significant funds. Her opponent, Samuels, has criticized her stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict, accusing her of being one-sided.
In the Senate race, Royce White, known for controversial social media posts, won the GOP endorsement despite concerns about his past behavior. Joe Fraser, his opponent, emphasizes a more mainstream approach and longer military service.
In the general election, Minnesota’s House race is expected to be highly competitive. Former prosecutor Joe Teirab and defense attorney Tayler Rahm are vying for the chance to challenge Rep. Angie Craig. The clash continues between establishment and grassroots Republicans in other districts of the state.
