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Minnesota voters will decide the direction of their state parties in primary elections on Tuesday, with races featuring candidates spanning ideological positions from progressive to election deniers. The contests will test which candidates have the strongest appeal to general election voters as both parties prepare for consequential fall matchups.
The Democratic primary for U.S. Senate pits Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, a progressive, against Representative Angie Craig in a race heavily shaped by immigration policy. Immigration enforcement has become a central issue in Minnesota following deaths of two residents at the hands of immigration agents. Flanagan has criticized Craig’s previous support for a federal immigration detention law, though Craig has since expressed regret for that vote. Craig has countered by questioning Flanagan’s accountability regarding fraud scandals within state programs.
Republicans face their own ideological test with Mike Lindell, an election denier backed by Donald Trump, competing for the gubernatorial nomination. Minnesota has favored Democrats in statewide elections for years, having not elected a Republican statewide since 2006, and not voting for a Republican presidential candidate since 1972. However, Republicans aim to capitalize on recent fraud cases involving state programs, including alleged organized theft affecting child meal services and housing assistance.
The general election in November will determine new leadership for both the governor’s office and U.S. Senate seat as Democratic incumbents step aside.
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Originally reported by Theguardian →
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