The legislative session is in full swing, and campaigns for statewide office are beginning to get under way. I would like to take this opportunity to emphasize the importance of local citizens participating in Minnesotas political process by attending precinct caucuses.
Precinct caucuses are the first step in Minnesotas political process. At precinct caucuses, local citizens begin the process of selecting candidates and issues to be advocated by political parties in the upcoming elections. This year, precinct caucuses are scheduled to be at 7 p.m. Tuesday throughout the state.
These meetings provide Minnesotans the opportunity to decide what is important in state leadership. 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 a straw vote for their nominee for the governors race. It is important that local citizens voice their opinions during the discussion of issues, because these views eventually influence the platforms of Minnesotas political parties.
To participate and vote in a political partys caucus, you must be eligible to vote in the November general elections. For further information on the caucuses and locations, call the county auditor or visit http://www.sos.state.mn.us/home/index.asp .
Please make time to attend your respective political partys precinct caucus on March 7. Your voice is an essential part of what our government and your political party stands for.
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Rep. Dean Simpson,
District 10B
