Omar Fateh Secures Endorsement to Run for Minneapolis Mayor

The Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party has officially endorsed Omar Fateh, a 35-year-old Minnesota State Senator, as its candidate for Minneapolis mayor. Fateh, the first Somali-American and Muslim to serve in the state’s Senate, earned over 60% of delegate votes at the recent convention, surpassing incumbent Mayor Jacob Frey amid controversy over the voting process.

Despite technical difficulties with electronic balloting, which led to the use of paper ballots and a show of raised badges, the endorsement was decisive. Frey’s supporters protested the process, attempting to invalidate the vote by leaving the venue, citing irregularities.

Omar Fateh speaking at a campaign event — Omar Fateh, a trailblazer as the first Muslim in the Minnesota State Senate, has been endorsed as the Democratic candidate for Minneapolis mayor.

Fateh expressed optimism about the upcoming election, emphasizing a clear choice between his leadership and that of Frey. “Voters will have a stark contrast between our records and visions,” Fateh stated, aiming to bring change to the city.

Frey, who has served since 2018 and faced criticism during the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests, has struggled with progressive voters. His family publicly criticized the convention vote, further fueling division. During his tenure, Frey faced boos and heckling after dismissing calls to defund the police.

Mayor Jacob Frey speaking at a press conference — Incumbent mayor Jacob Frey’s family criticizes the delegate vote.

Fateh’s campaign centers on progressive issues like rent stabilization, affordable housing, and higher taxes on the wealthy. Following his endorsement, he vowed to build a Minneapolis that prioritizes housing as a human right and responsive public safety, advocating for a city government that supports working people over corporate interests.