On July 19, 2025, State Sen. Omar Fateh, a democratic socialist, won the Minneapolis Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party’s endorsement for mayor, defeating two-term incumbent Jacob Frey in a historic upset at the Target Center convention. Fateh, the first Somali-American elected to the Minnesota Senate in 2020, clinched over 60% of delegate votes through a show of badges, signaling a progressive shift in the city’s DFL. His platform, emphasizing rent stabilization, affordable housing, and a compassionate approach to homelessness, resonated with delegates frustrated by Frey’s vetoes and perceived moderate stance.
Frey’s campaign criticized the process as “irregular,” citing a malfunctioning electronic voting system and alleging many supporters left before the final vote, denying a quorum. Campaign manager Sam Schulenberg vowed to challenge the endorsement, arguing the November 4 election should reflect the entire city’s will. Despite the setback, Frey, who navigated Minneapolis through the COVID-19 pandemic and George Floyd unrest, remains a formidable candidate with significant fundraising advantages, as seen in his 2017 and 2021 ranked-choice victories.
Fateh’s win, drawing comparisons to New York City’s socialist mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, highlights a growing progressive tide. Supporters like delegate Colton Baldus praised Fateh’s worker-centered policies, including rideshare driver protections. Critics, however, including conservative groups, warn his agenda could deepen economic challenges. With Minneapolis facing a $9 million budget deficit and policing debates, the race pits progressive idealism against Frey’s pragmatic record. As the DFL’s first mayoral endorsement since 2009, Fateh’s victory sets the stage for a contentious election, raising questions: will Minneapolis embrace socialism or stick with the status quo?
