Minneapolis DFL seeks to restore Omar Fatehs endorsement for mayor
The Minneapolis DFL is appealing to restore its endorsement of state Senator Omar Fateh for mayor after the state DFL rescinded it last month due to voting irregularities. The state party voided Fateh's nomination and placed the Minneapolis DFL on probation for two years, barring it from endorsing another mayoral candidate this year. Chair John Maraist criticized the sanctions, calling them undemocratic and alleging conflicts of interest within the state party's rules committee. Fateh is competing against incumbent Mayor Jacob Frey, who has focused on governance rather than party politics. The Minneapolis DFL endorsed Fateh during a convention on July 19, celebrated as a historic moment for party unity.
However, complaints about the voting process led to the state DFL's intervention, with allegations of miscounted votes and improper delegate accreditation. Though a recount showed increased support for Fateh, the outcome of the convention remains uncertain without further deliberation. The appeal seeks to restore Fateh's endorsement, emphasizing the need for fair representation in the electoral process.