Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz Explores Senate Run as Tina Smith Declines Reelection
Gov. Tim Walz is considering a bid for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Tina Smith, who will not seek reelection in 2026.
The moves complicate an already tough climb for Democrats to reclaim control of the Senate.
Tim Walz considering 2026 run for US Senate in Minnesota
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The seat will likely garner increased Republican interest, with it being an open seat rather than against an incumbent.
Ilhan Omar and Tim Walz being floated to replace Tina Smith in Senate - Washington Examiner
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Senator Smith’s decision to retire after just one full term in the Senate scrambled the plans of several ambitious Minnesota Democrats on Thursday, and gave new hope to the GOP that they may be able to expand the map even further next year.
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Now the Democrats will have to pay attention to Minnesota, which the Cook Report, a top nonpartisan political handicapper, this week rated as "Likely Democrat," as it unveiled its first read on the battle for the Senate majority in the 2026 cycle.
There will be another open Democratic Senate seat in 2026 midterms
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Minnesota has been a battleground state in recent elections, and the upcoming race could play a crucial role in determining the balance of power in the Senate.
Sen. Tina Smith Not Seeking Reelection
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Omar could face spirited opposition from the Democratic establishment given her left-wing politics and past inflammatory comments about Israel.
Ilhan Omar and Angie Craig are considering bids for Tina Smith's U.S. Senate seat
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Smith has held the U.S. Senate seat since 2018; she was first appointed to the position after former Sen. Al Franken resigned due to allegations of sexual harassment.
U.S. Sen. Tina Smith announces she will not run for reelection for Minnesota seat next year
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This is the highest-profile open seat in Minnesota since 2018, when then-Rep. Tim Walz jumped into the governor's race and won.
Democratic Sen. Tina Smith will not run for re-election in Minnesota
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Smith ruled out a run for re-election in 2026, opening up a key Democratic seat during an election cycle in which the party is desperately hoping to make up lost ground.
Dem Sen. Tina Smith won’t seek another term in 2026, leaving key seat up for grabs
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The race will likely become more competitive following Smith’s announcement that she will not seek reelection.
Democratic Sen. Tina Smith Makes Shocking Retirement Announcement
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Sen. Tina Smith of Minnesota won’t seek reelection, dealing blow to Democrats’ hopes to take Senate
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Summary
Sen. Tina Smith announced she will not seek reelection in 2026, citing personal reasons. This decision opens the race for her Senate seat, attracting potential candidates including Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who served as Kamala Harris' running mate in the 2024 election. Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, and Congress members Ilhan Omar and Angie Craig are also considering runs. As Senate Democrats face challenges to retain control, Republicans are eyeing this seat, making it increasingly competitive. Smith plans to focus on her remaining term and expressed confidence in Minnesota's political talent to continue her work.
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History
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