Somali-American Candidate Wins DFL Endorsement

Omar Fateh, a Somali-American State Senator for District 62, won the DFL endorsement for Minneapolis mayor on July 19, 2025. His campaign highlights his progressive roots, reliance on volunteers, donations, and community support ahead of the November 4 election. Critics, including incumbent Mayor Jacob Frey, question the endorsement’s validity due to a chaotic convention process, while some conservative voices criticize Fateh for releasing a campaign ad partially in Somali, raising concerns about his focus on English-speaking voters. This underscores debates about diversity and delegate-driven outcomes in the Democratic Party.

Can a candidate overcome controversy to gain political traction?