Former television sports reporter Michele Tafoya has announced her candidacy for the U.S. Senate in Minnesota as a Republican, according to federal filings submitted on Tuesday. She is vying for the open seat currently held by retiring Democratic Senator Tina Smith, presenting a significant opportunity for Republicans in a state where they have not won a statewide election since 2006.
The last Republican to hold a U.S. Senate seat from Minnesota was Norm Coleman, who was elected in 2002. Since then, the Republican Party has faced challenges in securing statewide victories, making Tafoya’s run a critical focus for the GOP as it aims to expand its influence in Minnesota.
Tafoya reportedly met last week with the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC), as party strategists sought her involvement following Smith’s announcement not to seek reelection. This meeting signifies the NRSC’s push to recruit strong candidates to help maintain their slim 53-47 majority in the Senate during the upcoming midterms.
In the Republican primary, Tafoya will face formidable competition, including former NBA player Royce White, who previously ran unsuccessfully for the Senate; former Minnesota GOP chair David Hann; U.S. Navy veteran Tom Weiler; and former Navy SEAL Adam Schwarze.
On the Democratic side, a competitive primary is also developing, featuring progressive Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan and centrist Democratic Rep. Angie Craig. Recent developments have heated up the political landscape; Craig has called for the impeachment of Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem following a controversial incident involving a shooting in Minneapolis.
Tafoya, who had a decade-long career as a sideline reporter for NBC Sports’ “NBC Sunday Night Football” before finishing in 2021, brings significant media experience and visibility to her campaign. She has also worked with major networks such as ABC Sports and ESPN. In 2022, she served as co-chair for Republican gubernatorial candidate Kendall Qualls, who is again in the race this year.
Overall, Michele Tafoya’s entry into the Senate race highlights the evolving political dynamics in Minnesota, as both parties prepare for a contentious election season ahead. The Republican Party’s efforts to reclaim a Senate seat in the state could be a pivotal moment for their future strategy and presence in Minnesota politics.