Democrat Melissa Lopez Franzen Drops Out of U.S. Senate Race in Minnesota

EDINA, Minn. (KVRR) — Former Minnesota Senate Minority Leader Melissa Lopez Franzen has ended her campaign for U.S. Senate.

In a statement, Franzen says she decided to end her run after thoughtful reflection and conversations with family, supporters, and community leaders.

She served ten years in the state senate but left after new legislative maps were drawn in 2022.

The Democrat from Edina says she launched the campaign in March focused on fighting for working families, expanding economic opportunity and protecting Minnesota’s neighbors.

Democratic Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan officially kicked off her campaign for Sen. Tina Smith’s seat a few months ago and has already earned many endorsements.

Republicans Royce White and Adam Schwarze are also running.

Smith announced earlier this year that she would not seek another term in 2026.

Below is Franzen’s statement on Instagram:

I launched my campaign for the U.S. Senate because I believe leadership is about showing up — listening, learning, and taking action. Over the past months, I’ve connected with Minnesotans across the state: on farms, in coffee shops, at protests, and in small businesses. What I heard was clear — people want safe communities, economic fairness, and a government that delivers.

In the Minnesota Senate, including my time as Minority Leader, I worked across the aisle to get things done. That commitment to service and solutions hasn’t changed — but how I carry it forward will.

After thoughtful reflection and conversations with family, supporters, and community leaders, I’ve made the decision to end my campaign for the U.S. Senate. This is not about stepping back — it’s about stepping with intention into the space where I can have the greatest impact.

The work continues — just through a different path. Our shared values and the urgency of this moment demand nothing less.

Thank you to everyone who stood with me. I remain deeply committed to Minnesota and to the fight for a better future.