Overview:
Peggy Flanagan makes history as the first Native American woman elected to the U.S. Senate, marking a historic milestone for Indigenous representation in American politics.
Native Vote 2026
Peggy Flanagan, a citizen of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe in Minnesota, has made history with her election to the United States Senate, becoming the first Native American woman elected to serve in the chamber.
Flanagan beat her Republican opponent, former sports announcer Michelle Lafoya, by 10 percentage points 54% to 44%.
Flanagan’s victory marks a significant milestone for Native American representation in the federal government and opens a new chapter in the history of Indigenous leadership in the United States.
Her achievement is especially meaningful for Native communities across the country, as it represents progress toward greater visibility and representation in national politics.
If Mary Peltola, a member of the Yup’ik community, also wins her race in Alaska, the two women would make history together as the first Native American women to serve in the U.S. Senate.
Flanagan’s historic victory is a landmark moment, highlighting the growing influence and leadership of Indigenous women in American politics.
