Minnesota Dems Clash Over Fraud and Immigration in Senate Debate

In a tense one-hour debate ahead of the Aug. 11 DFL primary, Angie Craig and Peggy Flanagan sparred over fraud in state social programs and immigration policy, with Flanagan criticizing Craig’s Trump-era immigration vote and Craig defending the stance while urging accountability. They also mapped divergent healthcare plans (public option vs. Medicare for All), called for reform of ICE, and weighed in on AI, data centers, and prediction markets. Endorsements and a combined $25 million in spending frame the high-stakes contest, with both candidates saying they’d back the other if they don’t win. The race features contrasting backgrounds and policy approaches as Minnesota positions itself for the Senate seat.