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3mo ago

Minnesota Senator Tina Smith Announces 2026 Retirement

Smith's decision opens a competitive Senate seat as Democrats face challenges in retaining control of the chamber.

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Minnesota Representative Angie Craig visits the Cummins Power Generation facility in Fridley, Minnesota on April 3, 2023. Governor Tim Walz speaks in Superior, Wisconsin on Janyar 25, 2024.
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Overview

  • Senator Tina Smith, a Democrat from Minnesota, announced she will not seek reelection in 2026, citing personal reasons and a desire to spend more time with her family.
  • Smith's retirement leaves an open seat in a state that has leaned Democratic but has shown signs of Republican gains in recent elections.
  • Potential Democratic candidates include Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, who has declared her intention to run, as well as Gov. Tim Walz, Rep. Ilhan Omar, and Rep. Angie Craig, among others.
  • Republicans view the open seat as a rare opportunity to compete in Minnesota, with the National Republican Senatorial Committee signaling plans to target the race.
  • Smith is the second Democratic senator to announce retirement ahead of the 2026 midterms, complicating the party's efforts to regain the Senate majority.