Michele Tafoya launched her Republican Senate campaign in Minnesota, aiming to succeed retiring Sen. Tina Smith.

Michele Tafoya, a former NFL sideline reporter, has started her campaign for the U.S. seeking the Republican nomination in the Minnesota Senate to replace Democratic Senator Tina Smith, who is retiring. Tafoya pledged to combat government fraud, safeguard taxpayer funds, assist law enforcement, and oppose what she described as radical ideology in schools and sports in her announcement on January 21, 2026, highlighting her experience in high-pressure sports environments as preparation for leadership. She enters a competitive Republican primary field that includes David Hann and Royce White, while Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan and U.S. Angie Craig, a representative. In the spring, Minnesota Republicans will host endorsing conventions; the primary is scheduled for August 11. When she entered, DFL Chair Richard Carlbom dismissed her and advised her to stay on the sidelines.