“I’m a proud DFLer. Every letter has meaning to me … But the DFL endorsement process just doesn’t reflect the full scope of the party that we are,” Craig said in a Wednesday news release. “And the purple state that we have become.” Craig made the announcement while she filed for candidacy Wednesday.

The U.S. Senate race was expected to be the highest stakes decision for DFL delegates in Rochester this weekend. Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan’s campaign said in a Wednesday afternoon release that campaign data showed Flanagan was supported by at least 75% of delegates, with 11% supporting Craig.

“Despite four months of organizing, campaigning, and nearly $3 million in outside spending backed by Chevron and United Health Group attempting to influence delegates, DFLers overwhelmingly consolidated behind Peggy Flanagan because they’re hungry for a leader who will stand up to corporate power, not bend to Republicans, and fight unapologetically for working people,” Flanagan campaign spokesperson Lexi Byler said Wednesday.

The race between Craig and Flanagan has posed a broader question on whether the DFL will choose to support a more moderate or progressive candidate. Craig’s campaign cited Democrats who she doesn’t believe have the time to attend something like a state convention as part of her reasoning for withdrawing from the process.