Senator Tina Smith of Minnesota has announced that she will not seek re-election in 2026, adding to a growing list of Democrats choosing to step aside ahead of a high-stakes election cycle. Smith, who has held the seat since 2018, cited a desire to step away from public office and spend more time with her family. However, her departure comes at a time when Democrats are struggling to hold onto key Senate seats amid a shifting political landscape.
Another Major Democratic Retirement
Smith’s decision follows the recent announcement from Michigan Senator Gary Peters, who also declared he would not run for re-election. With Democrats already at a disadvantage following the 2024 elections, these retirements raise further concerns about the party’s ability to maintain or regain Senate control.
Republicans currently hold a 53-47 majority in the Senate after flipping several seats in 2024. With Smith’s departure, Minnesota—a state that has leaned Democratic in recent elections but remains competitive—becomes a prime target for a GOP pickup.
I’ve decided not to run for re-election to the Senate in 2026.
This job has been the honor of a lifetime. For the rest of my term, I’ll work as hard as I can for Minnesotans and our country.
Thank you so much, Minnesota. pic.twitter.com/3sWVib8nKJ
— Senator Tina Smith (@SenTinaSmith) February 13, 2025
The Battle for Minnesota Begins
Smith’s retirement immediately sparked speculation about who will run for her seat. On the Democratic side, several high-profile names are already being floated, including:
- Governor Tim Walz
- Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan
- U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar
- Secretary of State Steve Simon
Republicans, meanwhile, see a rare opportunity to flip a Senate seat in Minnesota, a state that has not elected a Republican senator since 2002. Conservative activist and podcaster Royce White has already reaffirmed his candidacy, while other potential GOP contenders include:
- State Representative Kristin Robbins
- State Senator Karin Housley
- State Senator Julia Coleman
With Smith out of the race, both parties will begin positioning themselves for what could be one of the most competitive Senate races of the 2026 cycle.
What Smith’s Exit Means for Democrats
Smith’s departure further complicates the Democrats’ Senate map for 2026. Already, the party faces an uphill battle to regain lost ground, particularly in red and purple states where their incumbents are vulnerable. The loss of an incumbent advantage in Minnesota forces the party to spend resources defending what was once considered a safe seat.
Meanwhile, Republicans are riding the momentum of Trump’s re-election and his administration’s aggressive push to reshape Washington. The GOP has already signaled its intent to recruit strong candidates in battleground states, and with Democrats on defense, they are well-positioned to expand their majority.
The 2026 Senate Map is Taking Shape
With multiple retirements and potential Democratic losses on the horizon, the 2026 Senate elections are shaping up to be a crucial moment for both parties. If Republicans can pick up additional seats, they will solidify their control of the Senate and further weaken Democratic influence in Washington.
For now, all eyes will be on who steps up to replace Smith in Minnesota and whether Democrats can hold onto yet another seat slipping from their grasp.