DFL 101: Caucus
Most people don't attend their caucus because they don't know what happens there and what they'll be expected to do. Here's some background on what to expect. And, we'll have people available that evening to help.
What is a caucus?
A caucus is a precinct-level meeting of members of a political party for the purpose of beginning the process of endorsing candidates for the next election and helping shape the direction of the party for the next two years.
Why should I attend my precinct caucus?
There are several important reasons why you should attend your DFL caucus:
- Your precinct caucus is where the delegate selection will begin for the endorsing convention that will be held in the summer of 2008. If you have a candidate you feel should be the DFL endorsed candidate, going to your precinct caucus is your first step in helping that person receive the party’s endorsement.
- You will have the opportunity to participate in a binding presidential preference vote.
- You will have the opportunity to participate in grassroots politics. You can become your precinct’s chair or associate chair and help build the organization our candidates can use to get elected, or you can choose a lower level of involvement. Either way, if you want to take an active role in preparing for the upcoming election, you should start by attending your caucus.
- You will have the opportunity to discuss with your neighbors issues that matter to you and to influence the DFL Party’s platform by submitting resolutions you believe the party should focus on for the next two years.
Who can participate in a DFL caucus?
Any Minnesota resident who will be at least 18 years old by election day may participate fully in the DFL caucus of the precinct in which he or she lives, provided that s/he:
- is not participating in another political party’s caucus
- is not an officer of another political party
- agrees with DFL principles.
Any person 16 years old or older who meets all of the above qualifications except age is eligible to run for DFL precinct officer positions, participate in caucus discussions and vote on platform resolutions.
When will 2008 DFL caucuses be held?
Caucuses will be held on Tuesday, February 5, from 7-8 p.m. Registration will begin at 6:30.
Where will 2008 DFL caucuses be held?
The DFL Senate District 42 caucuses will be held at the Eden Prairie High School. At 6:00 pm, we will meet in the East Commons (so come early and park on the east (Eden Prairie Road) side of the building. The caucus rooms will be open at 6:30, and the caucuses will convene at 7:00 pm.
What will happen at my 2008 DFL caucus?
There will be four items of business to complete:
- presidential candidate preference balloting (candidates who have met the qualifications of the DFL party) — this balloting with set the percentage of delegates for each presidential candidate the state DFL will send to the national Democratic convention in August
- selection of delegates to the senate district convention (election necessary only if the number of volunteers exceeds the quota determined by the number of DFL votes in the precinct during the last two general elections)
- election of precinct officers: chair, two associate chairs
- discussion and voting on proposed platform resolutions to be advanced to the Senate District 42 convention.
Can I become a delegate to the SD 42 convention if I am unable to attend my caucus?
Yes, you may become a delegate to the SD 42 convention even if you can’t attend the caucus if you indicate your desire to become a delegate in writing to your precinct chair prior to the caucus. (Contact the DFL at 1-800-7457 if you are unsure where to send your letter of interest.) Your precinct caucus chair will then place your name into nomination at the caucus. Not certain what to say? Here's a sample letter you can modify for your use.
How do I submit a platform resolution for consideration at my caucus?
To submit a proposed resolution, you will need to state your resolution in writing on this form, which will also be available at your caucus. It is recommended that you have your proposed resolution written in clear form before you arrive at your caucus.
What if I have a disability?
Most caucuses are held in accessible buildings. If you require a translator, your request must be submitted by certified mail to the party's county or legislative district committee at least 30 days before the date of caucus. Contact the State DFL Headquarters for more details.
Join us at our results watching party after the caucuses
We will be gathering after the caucuses conclude at VFW Post 425, 100 Shady Oak Road, Hopkins, MN 55343 to watch as Super Duper Tuesday results come in across the country. Please join us on this exciting evening. Visit this page for driving directions.