Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan secured Minnesota’s U.S. Senate seat on Tuesday, keeping the seat in Democratic-Farmer-Labor hands. Campaigning on a promise to lower prices and pursue universal health coverage, Flanagan underscores a progressive shift in the state’s political climate.

Young people are increasingly making their voices heard at the polls. Observers say this wave of participation injects fresh energy into the democratic process and fosters more inclusive elections.