The Republican party is setting its sights on Minnesota, a state that hasn’t sent a Republican to the Senate in over two decades, as they strategize for the upcoming midterm elections. Senator Tim Scott, chair of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, believes a significant shift is possible, aiming to not just hold their current Senate majority but to expand it.
Fueling this ambition is Michele Tafoya, a former sideline reporter for professional football, now emerging as a potential Republican candidate. Tafoya is actively considering a Senate run and recently met with the NRSC, signaling a serious push to recruit her into the race. Her potential candidacy represents a bold new direction for the party in the state.
Minnesota has historically leaned Democratic, but recent election results offer a glimmer of hope for Republicans. President Trump’s narrow defeat in the state last year – losing by less than four and a half points – demonstrated a closing of the gap. Scott points to this as evidence that Minnesota is now within reach with the right candidate.
Tafoya’s path to candidacy began with a departure from her long-standing career at NBC Sports in 2022, driven by a growing passion for political activism. She quickly became involved in Minnesota politics, serving as co-chair for a previous gubernatorial campaign and establishing herself as a vocal critic of current Democratic leadership.
Her criticisms have focused on issues like alleged fraud within the state, directly challenging Governor Tim Walz and Representative Ilhan Omar. This willingness to confront prominent Democrats has resonated with some voters and positioned her as a strong potential challenger.
However, Tafoya wouldn’t be entering an uncontested primary. Several other Republicans have already announced their intentions to run, including Royce White, a former NBA player, and Adam Schwarze, a decorated Navy SEAL. The GOP primary promises to be a competitive battle for the nomination.
On the Democratic side, the race is shaping up between Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flannagan, representing the progressive wing of the party, and Representative Angie Craig, who appears to have the support of the Democratic establishment. The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee has yet to publicly respond to the Republican strategy.
Despite the Republican optimism, most political analysts currently view the Minnesota Senate race as “Likely” Democratic. The Cook Political Report, Inside Elections, and Sabato’s Crystal Ball all maintain this assessment, suggesting a significant uphill battle for any Republican candidate. But with Tafoya potentially entering the fray, the political landscape could be poised for a dramatic shift.
