Michele Tafoya Opposes Socialist Shift in Minnesota Senate Race

EDINA, MN — As socialist candidates gain traction nationwide and influence the Democratic Party, Minnesota GOP Senate nominee Michele Tafoya addresses voters across party lines who favor “common sense.”

“We do not want to see a socialist lurch anywhere in this country, and in particular in Minnesota,” Tafoya stated to Fox News Digital after casting her vote in a Minneapolis suburb. “Socialism does not work.”

Tafoya emphasized there is a home for voters in Minnesota who desire accountability, reduced crime rates, and improved education. She aims to represent more than conservatives, advocating for a return to sanity.

Following her primary victory, Tafoya transitioned from Republican Senate candidate to nominee, set to face Minnesota Democratic Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan in the November general election.

On her post-victory call with Fox News Digital, Tafoya expressed her determination to reach disillusioned Democrats. She criticized the state’s trajectory under long-standing single-party rule and emphasized the need for change.

“Our state has been going in the wrong direction quickly,” Tafoya remarked. “This has happened under career politicians’ watch. We’re not going to re-elect those who brought us here.”

Tafoya aims to become the first Republican to secure a statewide office in Minnesota since 2006. Her opponent, Peggy Flanagan, has been criticized for a significant fraud scandal while serving alongside Gov. Tim Walz since 2019, and her leftist positions, including advocating for the abolishment of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

“It is time to hold them accountable,” said Tafoya. “We will hire outsiders with new ideas who do not conform to party politics.”

Tafoya is eager to connect with disaffected Democrats and independents, a strategy similar to Michigan GOP Senate nominee Mike Rogers.

“In a primary, you mostly speak to your voters,” Tafoya noted. “Now I’m excited to reach those Democrats who feel abandoned by their party, and engage with independents to share their ideas.”

Andrew Mark Miller is a reporter at Fox News. Find him on Twitter @andymarkmiller, and send tips to [email protected].