What's a caucus?

On Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., political parties across Minnesota will hold their precinct caucuses. Unlike the high-profile presidential primaries, these are local, grassroots meetings where neighbors gather to shape the future of their political parties from the ground up.

What are the 2026 Caucuses for?

The caucuses serve as the starting line for the 2026 election cycle. While there is no presidential vote this year, these meetings are the first step in deciding who will run for major state offices, including Governor, U.S. Senator, and members of the MN House and Senate.

At a caucus, participants typically do three things:

• Elect Delegates: You choose neighbors to represent your precinct at upcoming regional and state conventions. These delegates are the ones who officially "endorse" candidates.

• Set the Party Platform: You can introduce and vote on resolutions. If a resolution passes at your local caucus, it can travel all the way to the state convention to become part of the party’s official stance on issues like taxes, healthcare, or education.

• Choose Local Leadership: You elect the precinct officers who will organize local political activities for the next two years.

Why is participation important?

The "endorsement" that begins at a caucus is incredibly powerful in Minnesota politics. Many candidates will drop out of a race if they don't get the party's endorsement at a convention, meaning the people who show up to caucuses often have more influence over who ends up on your November ballot than the general public does.

Key reasons to attend:

1. Direct Influence: It is "governance by those who show up." In many precincts, only a dozen people might attend—giving your individual voice and vote massive weight.

2. Issue Advocacy: If you feel strongly about a specific topic (like local land use or state funding), the caucus is the only place where you can force your party to formally consider your ideas.

3. Community Connection: It’s a rare opportunity to meet your neighbors and discuss the future of your community in a face-to-face setting.

How to Participate

• Eligibility: You must be eligible to vote in the November 2026 election (meaning you’ll be 18 by Nov. 3), live in the precinct, and generally agree with the party’s principles.

• Finding Your Location: You can look for your caucus location here.

• Your Rights: Under Minnesota law, you have the right to time off from work to attend your precinct caucus, provided you give your employer 10 days' written notice.