ST. PAUL, Minn. — On Thursday, U.S. Senator Tina Smith from Minnesota announced that she would not pursue reelection in 2026, a move that has ignited competition among potential candidates from both major political parties looking to secure her vacant seat.
Numerous Democrats quickly expressed their intentions to run or indicated interest in the opportunity, including Governor Tim Walz, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar, and Secretary of State Steve Simon. With this development, Democrats already facing challenges in regaining control of the Senate, where Republicans hold a 53-47 advantage, will now have to adjust their strategy as Smith’s departure eliminates an incumbent during a critical recruitment phase in states that will prove difficult to win.
Flanagan promptly announced her candidacy, while Walz, who served as Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate in 2024, is reportedly weighing his options. Omar’s chief of staff confirmed she is also considering her candidacy, while Simon’s intentions were likewise shared by an anonymous source.
Although Republicans have not effectively captured statewide office in Minnesota since 2006, they came close in the 2022 elections, indicating the state has become increasingly competitive. On the Republican side, populist Royce White, who previously lost to Senator Amy Klobuchar, reiterated his intentions to run, sharing a post on social media that conveyed a sense of urgency and public support for his campaign.
Additional names being floated among potential Republican candidates include state Representative Kristin Robbins, state Senators Karin Housley and Julia Coleman, former candidate for state auditor Ryan Wilson, and attorney Chris Madel. Wilson narrowly lost his last race by just over 8,400 votes, while Housley previously faced defeat against Smith in the 2018 election. Coleman is related to former U.S. Senator Norm Coleman, adding to her profile as a notable candidate. Former congressional candidate Adam Schwarze hinted at impending news regarding his involvement in the race following Smith’s announcement.
“There is a clear path toward victory at the statewide level,” stated Jennifer DeJournett, executive director of the state GOP.
In contrast, former U.S. Representative Dean Phillips, who made an unsuccessful bid against President Biden during the party primaries, has already declared he will not run.
Tina Smith, who is 66 years old and was appointed to the Senate to fill the vacancy left by Al Franken’s resignation amid controversy, expressed a desire to dedicate more time to her family after two decades of public service. “This choice is not rooted in politics. It is entirely personal,” Smith stated. “However, it is evident that our country urgently requires strong, progressive leadership now more than ever.”
In her remaining time in the Senate, Smith aims to focus on representing Minnesota’s interests effectively without the pressure of an upcoming election while highlighting the readiness of other Democratic leaders to step forward. “We have a deep bench of political talent in Minnesota—leaders who are more than prepared to take on the work and move us forward,” she shared.
In 2017, Smith was appointed by then-Governor Mark Dayton to serve out Franken’s remaining term and officially began her tenure in January 2018, winning her election later that year before securing a full six-year term in 2020. Her extensive experience includes roles as chief of staff for Dayton, as well as being an executive with Planned Parenthood across multiple states.
Flanagan indicated she would formally announce her candidacy later this month, praising Smith for her influence on women in politics throughout her career. “Senator Smith has cleared the path for many women like me, using her voice to advocate fiercely for the people of Minnesota,” Flanagan stated.
Franken, who served in the Senate alongside Smith, expressed he would not pursue the nomination, choosing instead to support the chosen candidate from his party. He emphasized Minnesota Democrats’ strong potential, noting, “We have a robust group of leaders who believe in the principle that we all do better when we work together.”
Fellow Democrats have expressed their admiration for Smith’s years of dedication. Governor Walz acknowledged her contributions, emphasizing her advocacy on key issues such as insulin pricing and mental health access. “Minnesotans will miss having her in the Senate,” he remarked.
Minnesota’s senior senator, Klobuchar, referred to Smith as a dear friend whose impactful governance style earned her admiration. “Her legacy and our friendship will endure beyond her time in office,” Klobuchar remarked in her tribute.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer also noted Smith’s significant impact and expressed confidence in maintaining her seat for the Democrats. He stated, “Tina Smith has demonstrated remarkable leadership and dedication, and I believe her legacy will motivate continued service from our candidates in Minnesota.”
Overall, the political landscape in Minnesota is poised for changes as candidates ready themselves for the upcoming race that has been significantly affected by Smith’s announcement.
