Former NBC sideline reporter Michele Tafoya won the Republican primary for Minnesota's open U.S. Senate seat on Tuesday, securing over 52 percent of the vote. The 61-year-old broadcaster defeated former NBA player Royce White and former Navy SEAL Adam Schwarze.
Tafoya centered her campaign on cultural issues, particularly her opposition to transgender women competing in women's sports. The debate over transgender athletes in sports became a prominent topic in the race after White publicly stated his intention to enter the WNBA Draft. Tafoya also advocated for increased law enforcement funding and addressed public fraud scandals during her campaign.
Following her primary victory, Tafoya released a statement asserting that Minnesotans are "ready for a new direction" after years of Democratic leadership. "We've seen what career politicians have done in this state," Tafoya said. "They've brought us to a place of national embarrassment, and this state is ready for change."
Tafoya, who stepped away from sportscasting in 2022, will now face Democratic Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan in the November general election. The race is to replace retiring Sen. Tina Smith, with Republicans aiming to flip the open seat.
Meanwhile, Royce White, who played briefly in the NBA, had recently declared for the WNBA Draft, drawing controversy. White, 35, claimed he was identifying as a transgender woman and sought to compete in the WNBA. This move followed a similar declaration from former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom. The WNBA has recently faced internal discussion regarding transgender inclusion.
Reports indicate White shared some of the negative reactions he received after declaring for the draft, including death threats and insults.
Earlier in August, Tafoya participated in a rally in Minneapolis alongside figures such as Riley Gaines, addressing comments on transgender inclusion in sports. Reports from within the WNBA highlighted differing views on the issue, with some players and coaches expressing support for transgender athletes, while others, like Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham, voiced concerns about protecting women's sports.