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Over the next 12 days, Minnesotans will walk through the state fair gates to encounter animals, art and decadent food. Politicians will have a chance to meet voters face-to-face, which could be especially important in a competitive midterm election year like 2026.  

Democratic U.S. Sen. Tina Smith kicked off one of the year’s the most significant statewide races when she announced in 2025 she would not seek reelection. DFL Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan and Republican sports broadcaster Michele Tafoya are running for the seat. 

Smith now has a few months left in her term, with major budget and farming legislation before Congress. She joined MPR News host Nina Moini on the MPR stage. 

Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.

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Democratic U.S. Sen. Tina Smith kicked off one of the year’s the most significant statewide races when she announced in 2025 she would not seek reelection. With a few months left in her term, she joined MPR News host Nina Moini live from the state fair. 

Sen. Tina Smith on midterms, Farm Bill and her final Minnesota state fair as a senator

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