Minnesota Sen. Tina Smith announced Thursday that she will not seek reelection in 2026, citing a desire to spend more time with her family.
In a video posted on X, Smith shared that while she has loved serving in the Senate, after 20 years in public service, she is ready to focus on her four grandchildren. When she first joined the Senate, she had none, but now her family, including her sons and their wives, all live in Minneapolis, allowing them to be together more often. She also wants to spend more time with her 95-year-old father and extended family.
Emphasizing that this decision is personal, not political, Smith reassured supporters that she remains committed to progressive leadership. With nearly two years left in her term, she pledged to continue fighting for the issues that matter to her constituents before stepping away from public office.
