Raeisha Williams Announces Run for Minnesota Senate District 65

Raeisha Williams, a St. Paul community advocate, small business owner, and nonprofit leader, has announced her candidacy for Minnesota Senate District 65, centering her campaign on public safety, small business support, and stronger child welfare systems that support families and address trauma early.

"I believe our district and our state deserve leadership that is courageous, grounded in community, and deeply connected to the people it serves," said Williams. "I am not a career politician. I am someone who has lived the challenges we face, has done the work alongside our neighbors, and is ready to bring that lived experience to the State Capitol."

Public safety is a core focus of her campaign. After losing her brother, Tyrone Williams, to gun violence, she co-founded Guns Down Love Up, a Twin Cities nonprofit focused on violence prevention and healing.

"This is not theory for me, it is lived experience, deep loss, and unwavering commitment," she said.

Williams also emphasized her firsthand experience as a small business owner and called for policies that help local businesses thrive.

"When small businesses struggle, we see corridors decline and opportunity disappear," Williams said. "I understand firsthand the challenges, accessing capital, securing insurance, navigating city and state licensing, and simply trying to keep the doors open."

Longtime District 65 Senator Sandy Pappas (DFL) announced in November that she would not be seeking re-election in 2026. Jamael Lundy is also actively campaigning for this seat as well.