Tue Dec 23 16:30:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and rewritten news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

The National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC), led by Senator Tim Scott, is targeting Minnesota as a potential pickup in the 2026 midterm elections. The NRSC is actively recruiting former NFL sideline reporter Michele Tafoya to run for Senate in the state. Republicans haven’t won a Senate race in Minnesota since 2002, but they believe Donald Trump’s close margin in 2020 indicates an opportunity. Tafoya is expected to decide on a run early next year. She would join a Republican primary field that already includes several candidates. Democrats are confident they will hold the seat, despite a potentially contested primary between the Lieutenant Governor and a more moderate House Representative. The race is currently rated as “Likely Democrat” by political handicappers.

News Article:

GOP Eyes Minnesota Senate Seat in 2026, Courts Former Sportscaster

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) is setting its sights on flipping the Minnesota Senate seat in the 2026 midterm elections, with a particular focus on recruiting former NFL sideline reporter Michele Tafoya to challenge for the seat. NRSC Chair Sen. Tim Scott highlighted Minnesota as a key target state for expansion in a recent interview, noting Donald Trump’s close showing in the state in 2020.

“We’re excited about expanding our map, and Minnesota is one of the target states that we’re looking at,” Scott told Fox News Digital.

Tafoya, who left her broadcasting career in 2022 to pursue political activism, has met with the NRSC and is reportedly considering a Senate bid. She is expected to make a final decision early next year.

Minnesota has been a tough state for Republicans to crack in recent Senate elections, with the last GOP victory dating back to 2002. However, Scott remains optimistic. “We see real reasons to be optimistic. President Trump was very close in Minnesota. It’s a four-point race. We know with the right candidate, we will be successful,” he said.

If Tafoya enters the race, she’ll face a contested Republican primary, including Royce White, Tom Weiler and Adam Schwarze.

On the Democratic side, a primary battle is brewing between Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, considered a progressive, and Rep. Angie Craig, who has support from the party establishment. Democrats, however, remain confident in their ability to retain the seat.

Lauren French, communications director at Senate Majority PAC, stated, “Whatever individual they ultimately dredge up to run won’t change the fundamental facts of the race: Minnesota is struggling because of the economic policies of Donald Trump and Republicans, and the state will elect a Democrat who will devote their time in office to lowering prices, creating affordable housing, and ensuring all Americans have quality health care.”

Currently, the Cook Political Report, Inside Elections, and Sabato’s Crystal Ball rate the race as “Likely Democrat.”

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