Sen. Tina Smith, D-Minn., announced she will not run for re-election in 2026 and will retire after her term ends. She cited a desire to spend more time with her family, as her grandchildren and children live in Minneapolis and her father is turning 95. Smith emphasized that her decision is personal, not political, but acknowledged the need for strong progressive leadership in the country. She has been a prominent figure in Minnesota politics, serving as lieutenant governor before being appointed to the Senate in 2017. With Smith and Michigan Sen. Gary Peters both retiring, Democrats will have to defend at least two open seats in the upcoming midterm elections as they try to gain control of the Senate. The Democrats are confident they will hold onto Smith’s seat in Minnesota, where they have had electoral success in recent years. President Donald Trump’s performance in the state in 2024 was the best by a Republican candidate in two decades. The open seat may lead to a crowded Democratic primary as aspiring leaders seek to take Smith’s place. Smith expressed confidence in the state’s political talent and is eager to make room for new leaders to move forward.
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