As this is an election year and people of all political persuasions are beginning to discuss candidates, I would like to take this opportunity to emphasize the importance of local citizens participating in Minnesota's political process by attending precinct caucuses.
Precinct caucuses are the first stage in the political process within our state. At precinct caucuses, local citizens begin the process of selecting candidates and issues to be supported by the political party you support in the upcoming elections. This year, precinct caucuses will be held on March 1 at 7:00 p.m. throughout the state.
These meetings provide Minnesotans the opportunity to be more informed and involved with their respective political parties. People in attendance at the precinct caucuses participate in the election of delegates and alternates (they may even be elected themselves!), discussion of issues, election of local party leadership, and have a voice in determining their party’s nominee for statewide and national offices.
It is important that local citizens express their opinions during the discussion of issues because many of the subjects that are talked about eventually lead to the platforms of Minnesota's political parties. And if you become a delegate, you will help directly determine which candidates will be nominated.
To participate and vote in a political party's caucus, you must be eligible to vote on November 8, 2016. For further information on the location of caucuses or other questions, call your political party headquarters or visit http://caucusfinder.sos.state.mn.us/ to learn where Republicans and Democrats are caucusing in your community. Caucus information for other political parties can be found here as well.
Please make time to attend your respective political party's precinct caucus on March 1. Remember, your voice is an essential part of what our government and your political party stands for.