Debbie is on to something: voting is like public transit. But here in Rural Minnesota, that comparison doesn't resonate; after all, we don't exactly have busses or subways running every 15 minutes. But the meaning is there: voting isn't about finding perfection, it's about choosing a direction.
Many people have one or two issues that they care deeply about. That's not unusual. But casting a vote can't be only about those single issues. It has to go beyond that and be about choosing the person who will work to move the whole community forward.
When we get fixated on single issues or the culture wars, we end up letting the loudest voice make it through, not the most effective one. And, we miss the bigger picture of who the candidates really are and whether they will do a good job representing all of us.
To be honest, most people aren't tracking every detail of state politics (quick reflection: can you name or describe a bill going through legislature right now?). In fact, nearly 80% of American's can't even name their state representative? If you're one of them, it's okay. We'll work on it together!
First things first. Let's identify your legislators using the "Who Represents Me?" GIS tool. Enter your address and you'll learn your state representative, state senator, federal representative, and state senators.
The "Who Represents Me?" GIS tool output
Now let's go a little deeper. The next step is learning how to identify your precinct and districts. One of the easiest ways to do that is by using the Minnesota Secretary of State poll finder tool. Enter your address and you'll be able to see your polling place, your upcoming ballot, your precinct and district information, and caucus information.
Once you know your precinct and district information, you'll have the foundation you need learning more about the candidates who are working to earn your vote.
Don't forget to check "What's on My Ballot" as we get closer to elections. The Primary Election is August 11 (with early voting begins June 26) and the General Election is November 3 (with early voting begins September 18). Confirm dates and details with the Minnesota Secretary of State to make sure you have the most up‑to‑date information.
The Brainerd Lakes area publishes a Voting Guide that will be updated with the candidate information you need to make an educated decision about who will represent you best. The guide includes Federal Offices, State Offices, County Offices, City Offices, and School Board races all in one place! It will be a great resource as we get closer to Election Day! Be sure to check it out closer to the elections!
