Caucus day 2018 is a great time to get started making your voice heard in the mainstream parties. Democrat and Republican neighbors gather on February 6 at 6:30 PM to begin the election cycle. Unless you are running for office, this is the entry point to the election process. I heartily encourage everyone to attend their precinct caucus. Even if you do not say a word or cast a vote, it is a wonderful way to learn more about the nuts and bolts of our party system. Remember that the precinct caucuses are not the sum total of our political system. They are political functions of the 2 mainstream parties. As with every other public function organized by any other interest group, they are available for everyone to use to further their own political agenda. At the moment, no single candidate or cohort of candidates stands out from the others. So I am emphasizing issues in 2018. Caucusing for an issue aims to influence the Party Platform and endorsing candidates that support the issue.
I will support the full legalization of cannabis for adult use. I will support a declaration of, and definitive action to support, Minnesota as a sanctuary state. I will support the Equal Rights Amendment for Minnesota. I will support the implementation of ranked choice voting statewide.
Agree or disagree, I urge you to find your DFL or GOP caucus location and go spend a couple hours building the party of your choice with your neighbors. If you cannot attend, and many cannot, you can send a letter supporting candidates, resolutions, or offering to be a delegate with some one else.