WASHINGTON — Minnesota’s junior senator, Tina Smith, has endorsed the state’s lieutenant governor ,Peggy Flanagan, as her successor. About Flanagan, Smith said: “She understands that right now what we need are fierce fighters, people who are willing to stand up to the status quo, people who won’t be intimidated.” Smith was making a veiled reference to President Trump’s xenophobia and racism. Flanagan is an Ojibwe activist. Flanagan is running against U.S. House member Angie Craig for the Democratic nomination to replace Smith, who isn’t seeking reelection. The primary election is August 11. Democrats are forecast to retain Smith‘s Senate seat in the general election. The much-followed Cook Political Report calls Minnesota wide-open in the general election but likely Democratic. On the Republican side the highest profile candidate is former football sideline reporter Michele Tafoya, a Tr ump loyalist.
Bmith bestows endorsement. Two-term U.S. Senator Tina Smith, in red turtleneck, favors Flanagan ahead of U.S. House member Angie Craig for the Democratic nomination.