Big-name ex-NFL sideline reporter files to run for Senate as a Republican
Minnesotans will soon see a familiar face campaigning for a seat in the U.S. Senate, according to a new report.
Former National Football League sideline reporter Michele Tafoya filed paperwork to run for Senate as a Republican. She will try to flip retiring Sen. Tina Smith's (D-MN) seat, The Hill reported.
"Tafoya’s entry into the race delivers Republicans a key recruit in the state and will force Democrats to spend at least some money in a blue-leaning state, especially as they have grappled with a statewide fraud scandal," The Hill reported.
"Tafoya’s decision to run is also likely to sharpen conversations among Democrats about electability," the outlet added. "Craig has already pointed to her record of taking on tough Republican challengers in a competitive House seat compared with that of the more progressive [Lt. Gov. Peggy] Flanagan."
Tafoya also announced her run at a time when Democrats in Minnesota appear vulnerable. The Trump administration has sued Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, and Attorney General Keith Ellison, all Democrats, over their resistance to Immigration operations in the state.