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.

Top 10 Must-Try Foods at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair

Donate Now Home Meet Us Reviews FAQ

Join us & receive email updates.

Marisa for Minnesota US Senate

I agree to be contacted by Marisa for Minnesota. To opt out, click the unsubscribe link in the emails.

marisa4minnesota@marisasimonetti.com

Lot #7060 PO BOX 17370 Saint Paul, MN 55117

RECOMMENDED BY

John Bristol for State Representative

Tad Jude for US Congress

Pam Altendorf House of Representatives 20A

Steven Jacob House of Representatives 20B

Senator Karin Housely

Donate Now

Dennis Walsh,Mayor of Orono

Top 10 Must-Try Foods at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair

There’s no better time to eat like a true Minnesotan than at the Minnesota State Fair. From deep-fried oddities to iconic comfort food, the fairgrounds become a culinary playground every August.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro planning your food route, here are the top 10 must-try foods at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair — ranked for flavor, fun, and full-on Minnesota spirit.

🥇 1. The Original Pronto Pup
You haven’t truly been to the State Fair until you’ve had a Pronto Pup — the OG corn dog with just the right crunch.
•🔥 Why it’s iconic: It’s been served here since 1947.
•🧂 Pro tip: Add mustard only — ketchup is for amateurs.

🧀 2. Cheese Curds from The Mouth Trap
Located in the Food Building, these curds are hand-battered, fried fresh, and served hot and squeaky.
•🧀 Fan favorite: Often voted best cheese curds in the country.
•🧼 Fair strategy: Split an order to save stomach space.

🍩 3. Mini Donuts from Tom Thumb
A classic that smells as good as it tastes. Cinnamon-sugar perfection.
•🌀 Pro tip: Grab a bag early — lines double after 6 PM.
•☕ Pair it with: An iced coffee from Farmer’s Union.

🍗 4. Turkey Leg from Turkey to Go
It’s primal. It’s juicy. It’s enormous. Walking around the fair with one of these is a rite of passage.
•🏆 Why it rocks: Smoked on-site and fall-off-the-bone tender.
•🐦 Pro tip: One turkey leg feeds two people — or one dedicated fairgoer.

🧋 5. Blueberry Basil Lemonade from The West End Market
Minnesota summers demand good lemonade. This refreshing twist has fresh blueberries and herbal basil for a fair-friendly mocktail vibe.
•🍋 What makes it special: Locally sourced ingredients.
•☀️ Best time: Grab it midday to cool down.

🥖 6. French Meadow Bakery’s Vegan Earth Wings
For the plant-based crowd — or anyone who wants to pretend they’re eating healthy. These cauliflower bites are spicy, crispy, and wildly good.
•🌱 Vegan-approved: Even carnivores come back for more.
•🔥 Spice level: 7/10 — bring water.

🍕 7. Pizza on a Stick from Tino’s
It’s everything you love about pizza — skewered and fair-ready.
•🍽️ What’s inside: Crust, sauce, cheese, pepperoni — all rolled and fried.
•🧼 Warning: It’s messy. Grab extra napkins.

🍓 8. Strawberries ‘n Cream from the Dairy Building
Cool, simple, and perfectly sweet — this is a quiet favorite among repeat fairgoers.
•🥄 Bonus: Supports local Minnesota dairy farmers.
•🍓 Best enjoyed: As a mid-afternoon snack break.

🍞 9. Nordic Waffles at West End Market
Thin, sweet waffles folded around ingredients like smoked salmon, Nutella, or breakfast eggs.
•🇳🇴 Nordic-inspired: A nod to Minnesota’s Scandinavian roots.
•☕ Best pair: Get it with your morning coffee and skip the long lines later.

🍫 10. New for 2025: Deep-Fried Salted Caramel S’mores Bites
This year’s buzziest new food. Marshmallow, chocolate, graham, and salted caramel — battered and deep-fried to golden perfection.
•💥 Debuting this year!
•📍 Find it at: The Blue Ribbon Bargains booth near Carousel Park.

🧭 Fair Tips for Foodies
•Start early. Many lines get long by noon.
•Share plates. More variety, less stomach regret.
•Stay hydrated. Lots of vendors offer free water refill stations.
•Download the fair’s food finder app. It’s a lifesaver.

🏡 Real Estate Connection: Local Flavor, Statewide Pride
For homeowners in Anoka, Scott, Dakota, and Ramsey Counties, the fair is more than food — it’s proof of Minnesota’s vibrant culture. Buyers love homes near year-round attractions, and showing pride in local events like the State Fair can make your neighborhood feel that much more desirable.
Selling this year? Use the fair to your advantage: decorate with Minnesota themes, mention proximity to park-and-ride hubs, and show off that hometown pride.

👤 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 affordable housing, home repairs, and sustainable homeownership in counties like Dakota, Scott, Ramsey, and beyond.