When is the 2026 U.S. Senate Election in Minnesota?

The general election for Minnesotaâs U.S. Senate seat will be held on November 3, 2026. This election will coincide with other federal, state, and local contests.

Why is the Seat Open?

Incumbent Democratic Senator Tina Smith has announced she will not seek re-election in 2026. Smith was first appointed in 2018 to replace Al Franken and later elected to a full term in 2020. This marks Minnesota's first open U.S. Senate seat since 2006.

What is the Political Landscape in Minnesota?

Minnesota leans moderately Democratic at both the federal and state levels. Democrats currently hold all statewide offices and both U.S. Senate seats. However, the state remains competitive, especially in open-seat races.

Who Are the Major Candidates?

Major declared Democratic candidates include Peggy Flanagan and Angie Craig. Republicans who have announced include Royce White, Adam Schwarze, and Marisa Simonetti. Several other figures from both parties are considering a run.

What Are the Key Issues Likely to Shape the Race?

Key issues expected to influence the race include healthcare, economic policy, education, affordable housing, climate change, racial justice, and the rural-urban divide in Minnesota.

What Is the Significance of This Race?

With no incumbent, both parties see a chance to flip the seat. The race could impact control of the U.S. Senate and is considered one of the most competitive in 2026.

What Are the Notable Endorsements and Controversies?

Peggy Flanagan and Angie Craig have received prominent endorsements. Marisa Simonettiâs campaign is marked by controversy following a high-profile incident in June 2024, leading to her loss of local party support.

What Do Analysts Say About the Race?

Analysts now rate the race as 'Leans Democratic' rather than 'Likely Democratic' due to the open seat. Competitive primaries, especially among Democrats, are expected to shape the general election.

Minnesota’s Best Ice Cream Shops to Cool Off This Summer

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Where Can You Find the Best Ice Cream in Minnesota This Summer?

From vintage drive-ins to gourmet gelato counters, Minnesota has ice cream spots worth the road trip. This list includes must-visit shops across the Twin Cities and rural gems you’ve probably never heard of.

🍨 Why Minnesotans Take Their Ice Cream Seriously
It may be the land of 10,000 lakes, but when summer hits, it might as well be the land of 10,000 cones. From Duluth to Mankato, Minnesotans know that hot days call for cold treats — and local ice cream shops are the go-to spots for summer joy.
Whether you're exploring the suburbs or headed out to a weekend cabin, there's always a scoop worth stopping for. Here are our top picks — no chain shops allowed! 🚫🍦

🏆 The 9 Best Ice Cream Shops in Minnesota
1. 🍓 Nelson’s Ice Cream – Stillwater
One of the oldest and most legendary scoop shops in the state.
Why Go: Giant portions, homemade flavors, and riverside charm.
Must-Try Flavor: Pirate’s Booty (caramel + cookies + fudge swirl)

2. 🍫 Grand Ole Creamery – St. Paul & Minneapolis
Locally made for 40+ years and a State Fair favorite.
Why Go: Fresh waffle cones, creative seasonal flavors, and nostalgic vibes.
Must-Try Flavor: Black Hills Gold (caramel, toffee, and chocolate chunks)

3. 🥭 Milkjam Creamery – Minneapolis
Trendy, bold, and delicious — this is artisan ice cream with flair.
Why Go: Vegan options, global flavors, and flavor names like “Cereal Killer.”
Must-Try Flavor: Thai Tea or Mango Sticky Rice

4. 🫐 Flapdoodles – Rochester
Quirky name, even quirkier menu.
Why Go: Rotating homemade flavors, bright retro interior, and family-friendly.
Must-Try Flavor: Lemon Poppyseed or Birthday Cake

5. 🍦 Cold Front – St. Paul
Classic soda fountain meets neighborhood ice cream stop.
Why Go: Hand-scooped joy and vintage floats.
Must-Try Flavor: Root Beer Float with house-made soda

6. 🐄 The Freezer – Nicollet
Small-town charm with big flavor in southern Minnesota.
Why Go: Drive-up window, picnic tables, and heaping cones.
Must-Try Flavor: Raspberry Chocolate Truffle

7. 🍪 Pumphouse Creamery – South Minneapolis
Woman-owned, organic, and sustainable — with killer cookie sandwiches.
Why Go: Local dairy, unique ingredients, and small-batch dedication.
Must-Try Flavor: Organic Vanilla Bean in a cookie sandwich

8. 🍍 Treats – Uptown Minneapolis
Asian- and island-inspired soft-serve in a colorful setting.
Why Go: Ube, matcha, taro — and rotating seasonal parfaits.
Must-Try Flavor: Ube-Mango Swirl

9. 🌽 Minnesota Nice Cream – NE Minneapolis
A pop-art shop known for wild toppings and colorful cones.
Why Go: Instagram-famous and unapologetically extra.
Must-Try Flavor: Cotton Candy Unicorn with glitter shell ✨

🍧 Bonus: Dairy Farm Creameries Worth the Drive
Want to see where your scoop comes from? These on-site creameries are perfect summer stops:
•Stensland Family Farms – Hills, MN
•Bridgeman’s Ice Cream – Duluth
•CannonBelles Cheese & Ice Cream – Cannon Falls

💬 FAQ: Ice Cream in Minnesota
Q: What’s the most popular ice cream flavor in Minnesota?
A: Vanilla still wins overall, but salted caramel and coffee-based flavors are climbing fast.
Q: Are there vegan or lactose-free ice cream spots?
A: Yes! Milkjam, Treats, and Minnesota Nice Cream all have dairy-free options.
Q: What’s the best time to go?
A: Weeknights before sunset are perfect — fewer lines, golden hour photos, and open-air seating.

📚 Trusted Resources
1.Explore Minnesota – Dining
The state’s official travel site featuring restaurant roundups and local flavor.
2.Minnesota Grown – Local Dairies & Creameries
Search creameries, farms, and ice cream made with local ingredients.
3.Midwest Living – Ice Cream Trail Ideas
Road trip-worthy foodie stops across the Midwest, including Minnesota.

👤 About the Author
Marisa Simonetti is a Minnesota-based housing advocate, real estate investor, and 2026 candidate for U.S. Senate in Minnesota. She writes about food culture, small businesses, and hidden gems that make Minnesota home.