Ex-NFL reporter Michele Tafoya loses Minnesota Senate race to Peggy Flanagan
The gist
Former NFL sideline reporter Michele Tafoya lost her Republican U.S. Senate bid in Minnesota to Democrat Peggy Flanagan.
The open seat drew national interest as a Trump-backed newcomer faced a state official.
How it unfolded
- Jan 20, 2026Tafoya submitted federal filings establishing a Senate campaign committee with the Federal Election Commission.
- Jan 21, 2026Tafoya released a campaign video announcing her Republican candidacy for U.S. Senate in Minnesota.
- May 2026Tafoya lost the Minnesota GOP party endorsement at the party convention to another candidate.