Minnesota Democrat Sen. Tina Smith announced Thursday that she will not seek reelection in 2026, creating another seat for Democrats to defend and lengthening their odds to retake the upper chamber.

Gov. Tim Walz, fresh off his failed run for vice president in 2024, is one Democrat mulling a run for Smith’s seat, Politico reported. He could also opt to run for reelection as governor in 2026. Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan threw her name in the hat on Thursday.

Smith made the announcement in a video posted to social media, setting off what’s sure to be a scramble by potential candidates in both major political parties to fill her open seat.

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