Trump-Aligned Former NFL Reporter Tafoya Opens Up Big Lead in Minn. Primary

Amy Klobuchar in 2024, has struggled to break into double digits despite already having statewide campaign experience and strong backing from some populist conservative activists.

The Minnesota Senate seat became open after Smith announced she would not seek re-election in 2026, triggering competitive primaries in both parties ahead of the August 11 election

Additional Republican candidates who have either declared or filed paperwork include Alycia Gruenhagen, Christopher Brooks, Mark York, Ray Petersen, Schwarze, and Weiler.

Despite Tafoya’s sizable primary lead, Republicans still face a difficult general election environment in Minnesota, a state Democrats have consistently carried in recent federal elections.