The National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) is setting its sights on Minnesota, aiming not just to defend its current Senate majority but to expand it as well. The state holds strategic importance for the GOP, making it a primary target for the 2026 midterms, as outlined by NRSC chair Sen. Tim Scott. “We’re excited about expanding our map, and Minnesota is one of the target states that we’re looking at,” Scott said in a recent interview.
Historically, the path for Republicans in Minnesota has been challenging. The last time they won a Senate seat was back in 2002, with then-incumbent Norm Coleman. However, recent trends show a shifting landscape. In the last presidential election, President Donald Trump lost Minnesota by a narrow margin of just four and a half points, indicating potential vulnerability for Democrats in the state.
Scott expressed optimism about the GOP’s prospects, noting, “We see real reasons to be optimistic. President Trump was very close in Minnesota. It’s a four-point race.” This sentiment reflects a belief that, with the right candidate, Republicans could break through in a traditionally blue state.
Former sports broadcaster Michele Tafoya is emerging as a potential candidate for the GOP. After stepping away from her role at NBC Sports in 2022, she has taken on a more active political role. Tafoya has been vocal in her criticism of Governor Tim Walz and Representative Ilhan Omar, particularly regarding issues of fraud in Minnesota. She recently addressed the Governor directly via social media, urging him to tackle the ongoing fraud scandal, stating, “Dear @Tim_Walz — please deal with the horrendous fraud you allowed in Minnesota before anything else. Please. Our money was stolen.”
Tafoya has met with the NRSC, suggesting that Republicans see her as a strong contender. Her decision on whether to enter the Senate race is expected early next year. If she does run, she will join a competitive GOP primary filled with notable figures, including Royce White, Tom Weiler, and Adam Schwarze.
The Democratic side of the race features Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan and Rep. Angie Craig, both vying for the support of party leadership, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. Currently, the race is viewed by leading political analysis outlets like the Cook Political Report and Sabato’s Crystal Ball as “Likely Democrat,” but the dynamics could shift as the campaign progresses.
As Republicans in Minnesota prepare for battle, the party’s chances will rely heavily on securing strong candidates and effectively rallying their base. With influential figures like Tafoya eyeing the race, the coming months will be crucial for the NRSC’s plans in a state where they seek to turn the tide.
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