Democrat Peggy Flanagan defeats Michele Tafoya in Minnesota Senate race

• An enrolled member of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe, Flanagan's win marks a historic milestone for Native American representation in Congress.

The big picture: The competitive race for retiring Democratic Sen. Tina Smith's seat unfolded against the backdrop of President Trump's immigration crackdown and scrutiny of fraud scandals in Minnesota.

• Flanagan, a two-term lieutenant governor, faced Tafoya, a former NFL sideline reporter who was seeking her first elected office.
• Pre-election polls showed a close contest, with Flanagan holding a narrow lead in several October surveys.

Zoom in: Flanagan campaigned on affordability and health care, championing progressive proposals such as Medicare for All and a $17 minimum wage.

• She has said she wants to continue a long run of Minnesotans serving on the Indian Affairs Committee.

Between the lines: Both candidates spent the final stretch trying to distance themselves from prominent figures in their respective parties — Trump for Tafoya and Democratic Gov. Tim Walz for Flanagan.

• Tafoya broke with Trump on tariffs, the Iran war and other policies in recent weeks, as she pitched herself as an independent voice.
• Flanagan faced criticism over fraud scandals under Walz, her onetime political ally and close governing partner. She argued that responsibility for oversight of the affected programs rested with the governor.

What's next: Flanagan will succeed Smith when the new Congress convenes in January, serving a six-year term.