In a move that reshapes the dynamics of Minnesota’s upcoming Senate race, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) announced Thursday that she will forgo a bid for higher office and instead seek reelection to her U.S. House seat.
Omar, a prominent member of the progressive “Squad” and a lightning rod in national politics, confirmed her decision in a statement to Minnesota Public Radio: “I am excited to announce I am running for reelection for Minnesota’s Fifth Congressional District to keep standing up for our rights in the face of authoritarianism.”
The announcement comes as speculation swirled about whether Omar would enter the race to replace outgoing Democratic Senator Tina Smith. With big Democratic names already circling the open seat, Omar’s decision to stay put spares the party a potentially bruising and divisive primary battle. But it also means one of the most recognizable Democrats in the state — and arguably the country — won’t be on the Senate ballot.
On the Democratic side, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan has already jumped into the race and received a boost from former Sen. Al Franken. Former state Sen. Melisa López Franzen is also officially in, and Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN), who chairs the House Agriculture Committee, is still mulling a run. Governor Tim Walz has taken himself out of the mix, but it’s clear the Democratic bench is deep — and crowded.
Republicans see an opening. Royce White, who challenged Amy Klobuchar in 2022, is making another run. Also in the mix is retired Navy SEAL Adam Schwarze, signaling the GOP’s interest in making this race competitive in a state that hasn’t been reliably blue in years.
According to the Cook Political Report, the seat is rated “Lean Democrat,” which means a messy Democratic primary or low voter enthusiasm could spell trouble.
As for Omar, her decision to seek reelection comes with its own challenges. In 2024, she barely held off a Democratic primary challenger, Don Samuels, winning by just a few thousand votes. Despite her national profile, her hold on Minnesota’s 5th District isn’t bulletproof.
Omar also made headlines last year when she endorsed Kamala Harris for president, quickly aligning with the progressive bloc of the party following Joe Biden’s exit from the race.
Her move to stay in the House signals a focus on preserving her influence and perhaps avoiding a high-stakes Senate fight that could fracture her political brand. For now, Ilhan Omar’s revolution remains in the House.
Obviously she has been able to make fools of the voters in her Congressional district. But can she make fools of the entire State of Minnesota?