Following Democratic Sen. Tina Smith’s announcement that she will not seek reelection in 2026, speculation grew around who might fill the open Senate seat in Minnesota. Many expected Rep. Ilhan Omar to run, but she surprised observers by choosing to seek reelection to her House seat instead. Omar emphasized the importance of grassroots organizing and fighting back against what she called the “chaos” of the Trump era. Her decision allows her to remain in a safe district with strong support from the Somali-American community.

Meanwhile, in New York, fellow “Squad” member Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is gaining attention as a potential challenger to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. A poll from Data for Progress shows Ocasio-Cortez leading Schumer by 19 points in a hypothetical 2028 Democratic primary. The survey highlights growing dissatisfaction among Democratic voters, especially younger progressives, with Schumer’s leadership. Many believe Democrats aren’t being tough enough in opposing Trump and the MAGA movement, signaling a possible shift in party dynamics.