Sen. Tina Smith of Minnesota won’t seek reelection, dealing blow to Democrats’ hopes to take Senate

U.S. Sen. Tina Smith of Minnesota says she won’t seek reelection, dealing a blow to her fellow Democrats’ hopes of retaking the Senate in 2026. Smith made the announcement on a video posted to social media Thursday. The 66-year-old says she wants to spend more time with her family after 20 years of work in the public sector. Smith says her decision is not political, it's entirely personal. But Smith adds that the country needs “strong, progressive leadership.” Smith says she'll use the two years left in her term working to represent Minnesota’s interests without having to worry about running for reelection.