Stephen A. Smith isn’t the only individual contemplating a shift from sports to politics; Michele Tafoya is also considering a run for the Senate in Minnesota. This comes after Democratic Senator Tina Smith announced her retirement plans for 2026, opting out of seeking another six-year term. As a result, Minnesota will have an open seat in the upcoming election, with Republicans urging Tafoya to step in to fill the gap.
“When Tina Smith made her announcement, my phone practically exploded. I’ve been talking to everyone from Tim Scott (R-SC) to local figures and establishment members, but ultimately, my decision revolves around my family,” Tafoya said, according to WDAY Radio. “I believe Minnesota is in need of a moderate Republican who isn’t promising to ban abortion and who stands as the antithesis of the Tim Walz regime.”
The former ESPN and NBC sideline reporter transitioned away from sports in 2022 after covering Super Bowl LVI and has since launched a podcast that often explores political and social issues. Following her departure from NBC Sports three years ago, she served as the co-chair of a political campaign for Republican gubernatorial candidate Kendall Qualls, who eventually lost in the GOP primary. Although Tafoya has identified herself as a “pro-choice conservative with libertarian leanings,” she indicates that she is 90 percent confident in her decision regarding the Senate run. Nevertheless, she has mentioned potential candidates like Qualls and TV reporter Liz Collin to fill the seat, suggesting she may not be fully committed to entering the race herself.
With Tina Smith’s retirement, Democrats will be tasked with defending 13 of the 35 Senate seats up for election in 2026.
