Peggy Flanagan wins Minnesota Democratic Senate primary, defeating AIPAC-backed Angie Craig

Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan has won the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate, projecting a progressive stance that includes rejecting support from the pro-Israel lobbying group AIPAC. Flanagan secured the win over Representative Angie Craig, who had received backing from AIPAC.

Flanagan's victory sets her up to challenge Republican nominee Michele Tafoya in the November general election for the seat being vacated by retiring Democratic Senator Tina Smith. The primary race was marked by internal Democratic party battles, with issues surrounding Israel and the pro-Israel lobby serving as significant dividing points.

During the campaign, Flanagan referred to Craig as “AIPAC’s candidate,” a label Craig pushed back against, stating AIPAC had not directly contributed to her campaign. However, Flanagan countered that AIPAC had organized fundraisers for the four-term congresswoman. AIPAC did not respond to requests for comment.

In other Minnesota Republican news, State Representative Lisa Demuth was nominated for governor, defeating former MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell. Demuth will face incumbent Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar in the gubernatorial election.

“

AIPAC has not contributed at all, the PAC, to my Senate campaign.