Somali-American Senator Omar Fateh wins DFL endorsement for Minneapolis mayor
The endorsement now positions Omar as the official DFL candidate, giving him a crucial boost in the upcoming mayoral race scheduled for November 4, 2025.
The Democratic Farmer-Labour (DFL) Party in the United States has officially endorsed Somali-American Senator Omar Fateh for Minneapolis mayor, choosing him over the incumbent, Jacob Frey.
Fateh, 35, has represented District 62 in the Minnesota Senate since 2020. He won more than 60 per cent of the 800 delegate votes cast, despite protests from Frey’s camp over how the voting process was conducted.
This endorsement positions Fateh as the DFL’s official candidate, giving him a significant advantage in the lead-up to the mayoral election scheduled for November 4, 2025.
The race is expected to be closely contested, with both Fateh and Frey emerging as frontrunners in a political battle that highlights growing rifts within the party, between progressives pushing for bold change and moderates favouring a more gradual approach.
So, who is Omar Fateh, and how did he become the progressive standard-bearer of Minneapolis politics?
Here’s a look at his background, political vision, and what his candidacy could mean for the city’s future.
Early life and education
Omar was born in 1990 in Washington, D.C., to Somali immigrant parents, making him a first-generation American.
As a Black Muslim growing up in the United States, he has frequently spoken about how his identity deeply influenced his worldview and shaped his political values.
He went on to earn a Master’s degree in Public Administration from George Mason University, grounding himself in public service—an experience that laid the foundation for his political philosophy centred on inclusion, equity, and community-driven change.
Path to public service
Before entering elected office, Omar gained experience across various levels of government, holding roles in state agencies such as the Minnesota Department of Transportation, where he worked as a project coordinator, and the Department of Revenue, where he served in the tax division.
He also contributed to local governance through municipal and county advisory roles, notably as Vice-Chair of Hennepin County’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan Policy Advisory Committee.
In addition, he served on the Minnesota Council of Minnesotans of African Heritage, where he helped shape policies affecting minority communities and earned recognition as a dedicated community advocate.
Historic first in Minnesota
In 2020, Omar made history as the first Somali American and first Muslim elected to the Minnesota Senate, representing District 62 in south Minneapolis. Although he had lost a previous bid in 2018, his victory marked a significant breakthrough.
Since then, he has advocated for universal healthcare, the Minnesota Green New Deal, improved public transportation, and equitable education.
A self-identified democratic socialist, Omar aligns with the progressive left both in state and national politics.
The road to City Hall
In 2025, Omar Fateh announced his candidacy for mayor of Minneapolis, aiming to unseat the incumbent and usher in a new wave of progressive leadership.
His campaign focuses on economic and social justice, with key proposals that include raising the minimum wage to $20 (Sh2,590) per hour by 2028, implementing rent freezes, and expanding access to affordable housing.
He also advocates for comprehensive police reform, humane solutions to homelessness, and stronger protections for immigrant communities.
In addition, Omar supports improving public transportation and opposes corporate subsidies, calling instead for greater investment in education, housing, and other community needs.
As the November election approaches, the race is shaping up to test whether Minneapolis voters will embrace Omar’s progressive platform or stick with the more moderate leadership of Mayor Frey.
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