Pete Buttigieg backs Angie Craig in Minnesota Democrats' Senate primary

Former U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has announced his support for Representative Angie Craig in Minnesotas Democratic Senate primary, a race that is already drawing clear lines among prominent party members. Buttigieg joins a growing list of past and potential presidential candidates making their voices heard in key Senate contests.

Last month, Senator Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., endorsed Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan in the bid to succeed retiring Democratic Senator Tina Smith. Buttigiegs endorsement marks his first involvement in a competitive Senate primary this election season, amid multiple Senate races nationwide.

Angie is a leader, a fighter, and an effective legislator who consistently serves the people of Minnesota, Buttigieg said in a statement. The Senate benefits from individuals like Angie, who engage with anyone, anywhere, to advance their work.

He further characterized Craig as a forward-looking Democrat committed to standing up to challenges to achieve results for her constituents. Im proud to support her campaign for the U.S. Senate.

Craig responded by expressing her gratitude, saying she was honored to receive Buttigiegs backing. She praised him as a leader who prioritizes people from ensuring fair and transparent travel policies to investing in safer infrastructure and stronger supply chains that serve everyone.

The primary has already highlighted divisions within the Democratic Party. Craig has secured endorsements from Senators Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin, Ruben Gallego of Arizona, Jacky Rosen of Nevada, and Andy Kim of New Jersey. Flanagan, on the other hand, is backed by high-profile progressives, including Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey of Massachusetts, Chris Murphy of Connecticut, Jeff Merkley of Oregon, and Martin Heinrich of New Mexico.

Democrats are generally favored in this open-seat contest, as Republicans have not captured a statewide election in Minnesota since 2006. However, the GOP has shown optimism about competing in the state, where former Vice President Kamala Harris won by a narrow margin last year. Former professional basketball player Royce White is the Republican candidate, after previously losing to Senator Amy Klobuchar by 16 points.

Author: Logan Reeves