The 2012 election is still more than nine months away, but the next chance for Minnesotans to voice their political opinions is a lot closer, namely the state caucuses on Feb. 7.
What's a caucus?
A caucus is one of two methods—the other is a primary—states use to gauge how voters in the various political parties are leaning. In primaries, voters show up any time during a wide time window on the day of the primary to vote for their favorite candidate, just like they would on election day.
But caucuses are a little different.
Find out what's happening in Apple Valley-Rosemountwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
For Minnesota's caucus on Feb. 7, voters will show up at a specific time and place, declare their party affiliation and meet with other individuals to—according to the state's website—accomplish four things:
- Discuss public issues and pass resolutions.
- Vote in a presidential straw poll.
- Elect precinct officers.
- Elect delegates to the county or district convention.
Where do I go?
The Constitution Party, Democratic-Farm-Labor Party, Green Party, Independence Party and Republican Party are holding caucuses this year, while the Libertarian Party and Grassroots Party are not.
Find out what's happening in Apple Valley-Rosemountwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) — All Rosemount precincts will caucus at Apple Valley High School, 14450 Hayes Rd., Apple Valley. For more information about the Senate District 37 DFL, click here.
Republican (GOP) — All residents who of House District 37B will caucus at Rosemount High School, 3335 142nd St W., Rosemount. For more information about the Senate District 37 GOP, click here.
Independence Party — The Independence Party is holding its caucus online. For more information click here.
Green Party — According to the state caucus-finder web page, individuals should contact the party for the location of its caucuses.
