Minnesota State Senator Omar Fateh is receiving significant support from high-profile progressive Democrats as he embarks on his campaign to become the next mayor of Minneapolis. Notably, Fateh has secured endorsements from Rep. Ilhan Omar and former Rep. Jamaal Bowman, highlighting a renewed sense of unity among the progressive “Squad” members, despite recent internal party challenges.

Fateh, who is known for his democratic socialist stance, has put forward a robust platform that includes ambitious measures such as raising the minimum wage in Minneapolis to $20 per hour by 2028. He also advocates for rent stabilization, the expansion of non-police emergency response initiatives, and the introduction of a local income tax targeting high earners. Furthermore, Fateh is committed to reducing cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration agencies, firmly stating that Minneapolis should resist actions from figures like Donald Trump and work to protect all communities.

In a video filmed together, Omar and Fateh appeared to discuss the city’s rising costs, housing challenges, and the need for what they described as “new, bold leadership.” Omar said Minneapolis residents “are struggling to make ends meet” and “tired of the broken promises and the vetoes,” while Fateh emphasized his goal of “building an affordable city that working families can call home.”

The backing from Jamaal Bowman comes after he faced significant political hurdles, including losing his reelection bid in 2024 amid controversies. Notably, Bowman was involved in an incident where he triggered a fire alarm during a crucial government funding vote, leading to a misdemeanor plea. The fallout from this incident included a $1,000 fine and a required apology to Capitol Police, after an investigation revealed he had removed warning signs before setting off the alarm. This controversy, among others, contributed to his defeat by Westchester County Executive George Latimer in what became an incredibly costly House primary, amounting to over $23 million.

Fateh followed up with a graphic quoting Omar’s statement, which read, “Minneapolis deserves a champion for working people,” and expressed her intention to rank Fateh as her “first choice for mayor.” On Friday, Fateh announced an upcoming “Northside Doorknock” event with Jamaal Bowman, calling the former congressman “an inspiration to so many people across the country.”

Bowman’s congressional career, although short-lived, was marked by his advocacy for progressive causes, including his call for the United States to accept Palestinian refugees and his resistance to additional military aid to Israel. His departure was seen as a significant setback for the progressive “Squad.”