Jacob Frey is at the center of Minneapolis politics again, making headlines with his run for a final term as the city’s mayor. Known for his pragmatic style and divisive stances, Frey’s leadership remains under a sharp spotlight with ongoing debates about police reform, affordable housing, and his clash with city council. As the 2025 mayoral election heats up, the story of Jacob Frey is far from finished.
Who is Jacob Frey?
Jacob Frey has served as the Mayor of Minneapolis since 2018. Initially elected on a platform promising increased affordable housing and police reform, he’s one of the youngest and only Jewish mayors in the city’s history. Before politics, Frey was a civil rights attorney and an accomplished runner. Since taking office, he’s overseen Minneapolis through turbulent years, including the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder and citywide calls for police reform.
A Crowded 2025 Race
This year, Frey is trying for a third mayoral term, having announced this will be his last attempt for the city’s top job. The upcoming election is fiercely contested, with opponents like state senator Omar Fateh and councilmember Emily Koski in the mix. In a major setback, Frey lost the Minneapolis DFL (Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party) endorsement to Omar Fateh in July 2025, which could pose a big challenge for his re-election prospects.
Recent Actions and Policies
Police Reform and Safety
Police reform remains a defining—and controversial—issue for Frey. Despite a federal judge recently dismissing a key consent decree for reforming the MPD, Frey has pushed ahead, signing an executive order to keep reform efforts going. He promises police reforms will move forward with or without federal support, focusing on “community-driven, transparent, and lasting” changes. His record includes bans on chokeholds and controversial no-knock warrants, but also a history of budget increases for the police.
Affordable Housing and Homelessness
Under Frey’s leadership, affordable housing has grown significantly. His administration boasts that housing units are being built at 8.5 times the rate as before he took office. He’s credited with tripling the city’s budget allocation for affordable housing and backing massive rezoning plans to allow more housing options. Yet, his tough approach on clearing homeless encampments earned both praise for reducing numbers and criticism for the methods.
Downtown Revitalization and Economic Vision
Frey’s plans for revitalizing downtown Minneapolis are ambitious. His latest action plan aims to create a 24/7 urban playground, with more open-container “social districts” and Times Square-style attractions. He wants to lure people back downtown in the face of remote work, seeing “vibrant activation” as the way forward.
Challenges and Criticism
Frey’s moderate politics have made him a lightning rod. He’s vetoed several city council measures—including rent control, labor standards, and ceasefire resolutions about foreign conflicts—which sometimes puts him at odds with the city’s progressive base. Critics question his support for police budgets and approach to reforms, while supporters say his steady hand is what Minneapolis needs.
What’s Next for Jacob Frey?
Despite not winning his party’s endorsement, Frey still enjoys strong fundraising and support within some parts of Minneapolis. Whether voters will stick by him for a third term will shape the city’s direction for years. As election day in November 2025 gets closer, the spotlight on Frey’s record—and his rivals—will only get sharper.
FAQs About Jacob Frey
Q1: What political party is Jacob Frey affiliated with?
A: Jacob Frey is a member of the Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party (DFL).
Q2: Did Jacob Frey win the DFL endorsement in 2025?
A: No, in July 2025, the DFL endorsed Omar Fateh for mayor instead of Frey.
Q3: What are Frey’s main policies?
A: Frey focuses on police reform, affordable housing, revitalizing downtown, and economic opportunity.
Q4: Has Frey been criticized by progressives?
A: Yes, he’s faced criticism for not fully supporting measures like rent control, stronger labor rights, and broader police reform.
Q5: Is Jacob Frey running for a third term as mayor?
A: Yes, Frey announced in January 2025 that he’s running for reelection, stating this would be his last term if elected.