The U.S. Senate primary in Minnesota is increasingly defined by immigration, with a controversial vote on federal legislation and its real-world consequences in Minneapolis casting a shadow over the race. The contest features U.S. Rep. Angie Craig, the establishment-backed candidate, and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, who is running on a more progressive platform.
The debate intensified following a monthslong deportation campaign staged by U.S. immigration agents at the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building near the Minneapolis airport. Protests and confrontations occurred during this period, and two people were killed in the city's streets before federal authorities reportedly scaled back operations under pressure.
Craig's past actions, particularly her vote for the Laken Riley Act, have become a focal point for Flanagan. The Laken Riley Act, passed early in 2025, requires federal authorities to detain migrants accused of theft and violent crimes. Craig was among nearly 60 Democrats in the House and Senate who voted for the bill.
Months after the vote, as immigration agents were deployed to Minneapolis, Craig published a column expressing regret for her decision. She stated that while she had initial reservations, she supported the bill due to its backing by respected Democrats and constituent concerns about border issues. However, she later concluded that supporting any bill granting new authority to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the current administration was a mistake, especially given the "outright occupation by aggressive, unaccountable federal forces" in Minneapolis. Craig maintains that her vote did not enable the federal immigration operation in the city.
Flanagan and her supporters view Craig's vote as a betrayal rather than a pragmatic political maneuver. Flanagan has stated that Craig's regret came too late, arguing that it shouldn't have taken 14 months for her to change her stance. "We can stand with the immigrant community and not just when it’s politically expedient for us," Flanagan told volunteers.
Craig, who flipped a Republican-held seat in 2018, has historically won tough reelection campaigns against Republican opponents. However, as a statewide Senate candidate, her past votes are now being scrutinized by those on her left. She has recently adopted more progressive rhetoric, telling volunteers, "The working class keeps getting screwed... it is time that we had a working folks reno— reso— renovation— revolution in this country.” Craig, who describes herself as a progressive, points to her voting record, noting that Republicans frequently advertise her high rates of voting with Democrats.
Flanagan, who has secured an endorsement from Sen. Bernie Sanders, aligns with progressive policies such as Medicare for All and curtailing U.S. military support for Israel. Her campaign is positioning itself as an alternative to donors supporting Craig, with supporters emphasizing that Flanagan is beholden to constituents rather than wealthy interests.
Campaign finance reports indicate that through July 22, Craig's campaign had spent $9 million, while Flanagan's had spent $5.5 million. Outside groups supporting Craig had also spent considerably more.
The race is for the seat currently held by Democrat Tina Smith, who is not seeking reelection. While Gov. Tim Walz has not endorsed a candidate, his wife, Gwen Walz, has endorsed Craig. The Republican field includes former NFL sideline reporter Michele Tafoya.