Minnesota’s Democratic primary for U.S. Senate is heating up, with establishment-backed U.S. Rep. Angie Craig facing off against Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan. The immigration debate has become a key issue in the race, with Craig’s past vote for a bill that tightened enforcement sparking controversy.

Immigration Debate Takes Center Stage

Craig voted for the Laken Riley Act, which requires federal authorities to detain migrants accused of theft and violent crimes. However, after President Donald Trump sent a surge of agents to Minneapolis, Craig expressed regret for her decision, saying that she had not realized the bill would give Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) new authority.

Flanagan has highlighted Craig’s vote as a betrayal of the immigrant community, saying that Craig was the only Minnesota Democrat to support the bill. Flanagan has also called for a more progressive approach to immigration, including support for Medicare for All and curtailment of U.S. military support for Israel.

The primary has become a test of the Democratic Party’s left flank, with Flanagan running as a champion of progressive values and Craig seeking to position herself as a pragmatic leader who can work across the aisle.

Craig’s Record Under Scrutiny

Craig’s record on immigration has come under scrutiny, with some critics accusing her of being too willing to compromise with Republicans. However, Craig has also been praised for her ability to win tough races and her commitment to progressive values.

The primary is set to take place on Tuesday, with the winner facing off against Republican candidate Michele Tafoya in the general election.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.