Minnesota Senate Candidates Clash Over Fraud, Taxes

Minnesota Senate candidates Peggy Flanagan, a Democrat, and Republican Michele Tafoya clashed in their first and only scheduled debate over fraud scandals, taxes, and immigration. Tafoya argued Flanagan should share responsibility for fraud that occurred under the Walz-Flanagan administration, citing her role as lieutenant governor; Flanagan said Gov. Tim Walz had oversight, acknowledged that more should have been done sooner, and pointed to her support for stronger oversight and penalties. On taxes, Tafoya called for cuts including no taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security benefits, while accusing Flanagan of favoring higher taxes and spending; Flanagan said she opposes taxing Social Security and supports some tax cuts, but warned that Medicaid and SNAP cuts in the federal legislation Tafoya backs would harm Minnesotans. The candidates also disputed federal immigration enforcement: Tafoya criticized the handling of Operation Metro Surge while supporting both immigration and law and order, whereas Flanagan called for dismantling ICE and challenged Tafoya’s past support for the agency.