ST. PAUL, Minn. — On Thursday, U.S. Senator Tina Smith from Minnesota announced that she will not be seeking reelection, prompting an immediate rush among potential candidates from both major political parties to consider running for her now-vacant seat.
Among the Democrats expressing interest in a potential campaign are Governor Tim Walz, Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan, Representative Ilhan Omar, and Secretary of State Steve Simon. Given that Democrats are already facing challenges in regaining control of the Senate—where Republicans currently hold a 53-47 majority—Smith’s decision to step down further complicates their efforts to recruit candidates in states that traditionally favor their party.
Flanagan was among the first to announce her intentions to run. Meanwhile, Walz, who served as Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate in the most recent election, is reportedly considering a bid, as indicated by a source close to him. Omar’s chief of staff also mentioned that she is contemplating a campaign, along with Simon, who is similarly weighing his options.
Although no Republican has won a statewide office in Minnesota since 2006, the landscape has become more competitive in recent years, with some candidates coming close in 2022. On the Republican side, populist Royce White, who previously lost to Senator Amy Klobuchar, confirmed he intends to challenge Smith’s seat and posted an image with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the current health secretary under Donald Trump, on social media.
There are additional names being discussed among potential Republican contenders, such as state Representative Kristin Robbins, state Senators Karin Housley and Julia Coleman, former state auditor candidate Ryan Wilson, and attorney Chris Madel. Wilson narrowly lost in the 2022 elections and Housley previously lost to Smith in 2018. Coleman is the daughter-in-law of former U.S. Senator Norm Coleman. Former congressional candidate Adam Schwarze reacted to Smith’s announcement by hinting at upcoming news of his own.
According to Jennifer DeJournett, the executive director of the state GOP, “There is 100% a path for statewide victory.” Meanwhile, former Congressman Dean Phillips, who challenged President Joe Biden during last year’s primaries, confirmed he will not be running.
At 66 years old, Smith, who initially took office to fill the term of Senator Al Franken after his resignation due to sexual misconduct allegations, said she wants to focus on family after two decades in public service. “This decision is not political. It is entirely personal,” she explained. However, she acknowledged the need for strong, progressive leadership during such critical times.
Looking ahead, Smith intends to dedicate the remaining two years of her term to serving Minnesota without the concern of another election. She also expressed confidence in the next generation of Democratic leaders ready to step forward. “We have a deep bench of political talent in Minnesota, and I’m excited to make room for them to move forward,” she stated.
Smith was appointed as lieutenant governor before taking over Franken’s seat in January 2018, and she has since won elections to retain her position. Her career includes roles as chief of staff for Governor Mark Dayton and as an executive with Planned Parenthood covering several states.
Flanagan plans to formally announce her candidacy later this month and praised Smith’s contributions to women and to Minnesota as a whole. “Her voice fiercely defends the people of Minnesota,” Flanagan stated.
Franken, acknowledging Smith’s impact, stated he won’t run but looks forward to supporting the nominee from the Democratic Party. He noted that Minnesota Democrats have a wealth of talent and emphasized a collective vision of progress, rooted in the belief that success for all leads to success for individuals.
Other Democratic figures took the opportunity to commend Smith for her dedication to various vital issues, such as health care and climate action. Governor Walz mentioned that Minnesotans will feel her absence in the Senate, while Senator Amy Klobuchar referred to Smith’s governing style as “the velvet hammer.”
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer expressed his confidence that Smith’s seat will remain in Democratic control, highlighting her formidable legacy. “Tina Smith has been a remarkable senator—smart, compassionate, and tireless in her commitment to Minnesota and the country,” he remarked.
In conclusion, Smith’s announcement marks a significant shift in Minnesota’s political landscape, sparking excitement and a sense of urgency among potential candidates from both parties. This story has been updated to clarify that no Republican has won statewide office in Minnesota since 2006.
