Former sports reporter Michele Tafoya files to run for U.S. Senate in Minnesota

Published: Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 1:26 am

Former Sports Reporter Michele Tafoya Enters Minnesota Senate Race

Michele Tafoya, a former television sports reporter, has officially entered the race for the U.S. Senate in Minnesota, filing her candidacy as a Republican. The filing, made on Tuesday, puts Tafoya in contention for the seat currently held by retiring Democratic Senator Tina Smith.

The Republican Party sees this as a prime opportunity to gain a Senate seat in a state where they haven't achieved a statewide victory since 2006. The last Republican elected to the U.S. Senate from Minnesota was Norm Coleman in 2002.

Tafoya's entry into the race follows a meeting with the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) last week, as confirmed by CBS News. The NRSC has been actively recruiting Tafoya since Senator Smith announced her retirement.

Tafoya faces a crowded Republican primary field. Other candidates include former NBA player Royce White, who previously ran for Senate, along with David Hann, Tom Weiler, and Adam Schwarze.

On the Democratic side, a competitive primary is also developing. The contenders include Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan and Representative Angie Craig.

Tafoya's background is in sports broadcasting. She spent a decade as a sideline reporter for NBC Sports' "NBC Sunday Night Football" and also worked for ABC Sports, ESPN, and CBS Sports. In 2022, she co-chaired the campaign of Republican gubernatorial candidate Kendall Qualls.

BNN's Perspective:

The Minnesota Senate race is shaping up to be a closely watched contest. Tafoya's entry, with her high-profile background, adds an interesting dynamic to the Republican primary. While her lack of political experience could be a challenge, her name recognition and media savvy could also prove to be assets. The crowded primary field on both sides suggests a potentially long and expensive campaign season ahead.

Keywords: Michele Tafoya, U.S. Senate, Minnesota, Republican, Tina Smith, Senate race, NRSC, Royce White, David Hann, Tom Weiler, Adam Schwarze, Peggy Flanagan, Angie Craig, NBC Sports, sports reporter, midterm elections, political campaign

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