Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that she will not seek a second term.
“I’ve decided not to run for re-election to the Senate in 2026,” Smith said. “This job has been the honor of a lifetime. For the rest of my term, I’ll work as hard as I can for Minnesotans and our country. Thank you so much, Minnesota.”
In an opinion piece for the Minnesota Star-Tribune, Smith wrote that her decision is “entirely personnel.”
“But it’s not lost on me that I’m stepping away from elected office at a time when strong, progressive leadership in Washington is more important than ever,” she explained. As much as I’m looking forward to whatever new adventure awaits in this big, complicated, beautiful world, I know I will be leaving Minnesota’s next senator with some critical work to do.”
Smith noted that one of her priorities is to “have a deep bench of political talent in Minnesota ready to carry on this work for all of us.”
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (D) is reportedly considering a run for Senate.
Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan is also intending to run for the seat. “I love Minnesota and my intention is to run for United States Senate and continue to serve the people of this state,” she declared on social media. “I’ll make a formal announcement later this month.”
Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) may also launch a bid for the spot. “Congresswoman Omar will be talking with Minnesotans about the future of the Senate seat and DFL party in Minnesota,” a spokesperson stated.
