Dear Neighbors,
Minnesotans have the opportunity to take an active role in grassroots democracy by attending a precinct caucus on Tuesday, March 1 starting at 7:00 PM. Precinct caucuses are the first step on the road to the primary and general elections—and you can play a very important role along that journey!
New to precinct caucuses? In short, they are the first stop for selecting and nominating candidates whose names will be on the ballot, as well as deciding on a political party’s platform and electing precinct officers. This year, participants in both Republican and DFL caucuses will vote for the presidential candidate of their choice. For the first time, the Republican presidential straw poll vote will be binding, and candidates who poll strongly will win delegates to subsequent conventions.
Caucuses provide a setting for people to gather with like-minded neighbors to discuss important issues and make their voices heard. To participate, you must be eligible to vote in the November general election and live in the precinct. You also must generally agree with the principles of the political party hosting the caucus.
This fundamental part of the democratic process is so important that decades ago, state legislators laid out clear details in statute (Chapter 202A.14) on the timing and order of the meetings. Now it’s your turn to participate in a process that will help shape the future of our great state!
In November, voters will be responsible for electing the President of the United States, all members of the Minnesota House of Representatives, all members of the Minnesota Senate and all of Minnesota's eight seats in the United States House of Representatives. The March 1 precinct is an important first step in that process.
In Senate District 34, Republicans from Osseo and Maple Grove will be at Maple Grove Junior High; Republicans from Dayton will meet at Dayton Elementary School; and Republicans from Rogers will meet at the Rogers Community Center (fire hall). Democrats from each of these cities will meet at Maple Grove Senior High.
To find the location of any precinct caucus, you can visit the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website here: www.mnvotes.org for their "Online Caucus Finder." The site also details caucus specifics and orients newcomers to this year’s electoral events, as well as lists contact information for the DFL, Republican and other minor political parties in Minnesota.
Remember, all caucuses convene at 7:00 PM. Make sure you attend and take part in this civic process!
Have a great weekend,
Joyce