Scared of losing the steady income provided by her deep-blue House seat, radical “Squad” member Ilhan Omar is playing it safe rather than risking a Senate run in 2026.
The controversial progressive announced she will seek a fifth term representing Minnesota’s heavily Democrat 5th Congressional District instead of competing for an open Senate seat.
Omar, who won her 2024 reelection with over 75% of the vote in her far-left district, made clear her intentions to continue pushing radical positions from her secure congressional perch.
Rather than risk losing in a statewide race where her extreme views might not play well, Omar is maintaining her position in Minneapolis.
In her announcement, Omar focused on attacking the Trump administration rather than addressing the pressing concerns facing everyday Minnesotans, saying:
“At a time when our rights are under attack, it is more important than ever to fight back against the chaos, corruption, and callousness of the Trump Administration. I am excited to announce I am running for reelection for Minnesota’s Fifth Congressional District to keep standing up for our rights in the face of authoritarianism.”
Omar’s decision keeps her in the House, where she has become known as a member of the far-left “Squad” alongside Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and other radical progressives.
Since becoming the first Somali American elected to Congress, Omar has repeatedly drawn criticism for anti-Israel statements and support for defunding police, positions that would likely damage her in a statewide race.
The congresswoman has also revealed that she plans to refocus on helping her party retake the House in next year’s midterms.
“In Minnesota, we know that organized people will always beat organized money. Our campaign is ready to build on our successful grassroots organizing efforts to have a record turnout for the midterms and help win back the majority,” she said.
Meanwhile, Minnesota’s open Senate race is heating up with potential Republican candidates.
Among GOP contenders are former NBA player Royce White, Adam Schwarze, Raymond Peterson, and Mike Ruoho—all vying for the opportunity to flip Tina Smith’s seat red.
The Cook Political Report currently rates the race as “Lean Democrat,” but Republicans see an opportunity with the right candidate to shift Minnesota’s political landscape.
On the Democratic side, Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan and former state Senate Minority Leader Melisa López Franzen have already declared their candidacies.
If elected, Flanagan would become just the fifth U.S. senator of Native American heritage.
Omar’s decision to stay put in the House reflects the vulnerability Democrats face in the upcoming election cycle.
With President Donald Trump implementing America First policies that resonate with voters across the Midwest, even formerly safe Democrat seats like Smith’s Senate position could be within Republican reach.
The 2026 contest will be Minnesota’s first open Senate race since 2006, providing Republicans their best opportunity in years to gain ground in the traditionally blue state.
