Omar Fateh concedes in Minneapolis mayoral race
Omar Fateh conceded to Jacob Frey in the Minneapolis mayoral election after a spirited campaign that energized young, progressive voters. Frey secured a third term, winning under the city’s ranked-choice voting system, which saw record turnout. Fateh, a 35-year-old democratic socialist, advocated for a $20 minimum wage by 2028 and rent control to address affordability issues. In his concession, he highlighted how his campaign brought critical discussions on housing and workers’ rights to the forefront. Fateh aimed to become the first Muslim and Somali American mayor in a city with the largest Somali community in the nation.
The Minneapolis DFL originally endorsed him, but the state DFL revoked the nomination due to concerns over the convention's validity. Despite significant financial opposition, he emphasized the importance of "people power" in his campaign. Fateh expressed gratitude to his supporters, stating they built a campaign rooted in dignity and courage.