Why are caucuses important?

Why are caucuses important?

We all have heard the word caucus, but why should we care and most importantly why should we attend? A precinct caucus is an event held in even-numbered years, where individuals who live within a certain area, or precinct, and all support a particular party, get together to decide the direction of that party. This is the start of the political process, and you will select the candidates that the party puts forth in the next election. You will have the chance to bring forth issues important to you that you would like to see the party address.  Each precinct will elect a precinct chair and will nominate delegates (and alternates) to represent them at higher party levels. Attending a precinct caucus is a way for you to be active in the party of your choice and to make sure the party is run the way you want. You will have a voice both in what issues are raised and also in selecting the people that run the party.  What do I do when I show up? When you show up, you’ll be asked to sign in. By signing in, you state your general intent to support that party in the upcoming election and that you agree with the principles set forth by that party. From this point you can be as active a participant as you want. You will be electing delegates and alternates. If you want to represent your precincts at higher levels, you can sign up to be a delegate (self nominate) and your fellow precinct members may select you as such.  You will then be their voice at higher levels. It's the delegates nominate and endorse State House and Senate candidates and their local or CD party chair. If you want to bring forth a particular issue, bring that up when your precinct meets. If you are not elected as a delegate, your delegates can then bring this issue up later on in the political process. You will be electing the precincts chairs*, these important individuals will represent your precinct in the BPOU committee and vote the day-to-day activities of the BPOU.    *Precinct Chair *Deputy Chair *Secretary *Treasurer and Co-Chairs may also be elected. To find your caucus go to Voter Information Portal (state.mn.us) The caucus location for your precinct will be available at least 20 days before the caucus date. Caucus Documentation is located here. If you are a caucus convener, please download and print prior to caucus.