MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan won the Democratic Senate primary on Tuesday, defeating U.S. Rep. Angie Craig. Flanagan's campaign focused on reducing corporate influence in politics and opposing Republican President Donald Trump. In her victory speech, Flanagan stated, "For months now, I have been telling you that this campaign was about the many versus the money. Well guess what? The many just won."
This result reflects a trend of progressive candidates gaining support among Democratic primary voters, following Abdul El-Sayed's recent primary victory in Michigan. Flanagan is expected to be the front-runner in the general election against Michele Tafoya, who won the Republican primary. Minnesota has not elected a Republican to a statewide office since 2006, although Republicans are hopeful that a fraud scandal involving public funds could impact the election.
In the Republican primary for governor, Lisa Demuth emerged victorious over candidates including Mike Lindell, known for his support of Trump and claims regarding the 2020 election. Demuth will face U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, who secured the Democratic nomination.
The primary race was influenced by issues such as immigration policy and corporate funding, with Flanagan receiving endorsements from prominent progressives like Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren. Craig, who had support from establishment Democrats, conceded and encouraged her supporters to back Flanagan. The race also highlighted tensions within the party regarding the balance between progressive and moderate candidates.