Republicans have identified Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan as a target in the upcoming midterm elections following her recent Senate primary victory. The GOP aims to shift the midterms from a referendum on former President Donald Trump to a choice between the Republican Party and what they describe as a leftward-leaning Democratic Party.
Republicans plan to highlight progressive Democrats who have won statewide primaries as part of their strategy. This follows Abdul El-Sayed's victory in Michigan's Senate primary, with GOP operatives preparing video content featuring El-Sayed and liberal figures for their upcoming midterm convention in Dallas.
Flanagan's support for dismantling ICE, transgender rights, and her association with progressive Senator Bernie Sanders are among the lines of attack Republicans intend to use. Additionally, they plan to reference fraud scandals that occurred during her tenure as lieutenant governor to argue against liberal governance.
Despite not winning a statewide race in Minnesota for two decades, Republicans are closely monitoring Flanagan's race against GOP nominee Michele Tafoya, who has been invited to a donor retreat hosted by a pro-GOP super PAC. Republicans are optimistic about Tafoya's chances following recent primary victories that they believe will strengthen their position.
However, they face challenges in Minnesota, where Trump has a low approval rating of 37%. Flanagan's recent primary win, where she defeated a more moderate opponent by 20 points, demonstrates her political strength. Flanagan's campaign is also working to connect Tafoya to Trump, emphasizing her comments about economic sacrifices during the U.S.-Iran war.
A spokesperson for Flanagan stated that Republicans' attempts to label her will not distract voters from the realities of Trump's presidency and its impact on working families.