Minnesota Farmers Union

(January 22, 2010) - Last month, I wrote a piece about the new economy, and the need for farmers to be at the table, and part of the discussion as policies develop.  Precinct caucuses are a perfect example of how to get involved and have influence in the process and the development of agendas.

Tuesday night February 2, all across Minnesota, voters will have the chance to attend their precinct caucuses in their local communities.  Minnesota is unique in the fact that the precinct caucus system allows for grassroots level involvement, whether with the GOP, DFL, Independent, or Green party.  All parties are open to those who want to be a part of the political process and to offer their ideas.  With health care, climate change, animal care, environmental concerns, and other issues, it is as important now as it has ever been for farmers and rural Minnesotans to take a couple hours out of their day and attend your caucus.

In Minnesota, there are over five million people, yet about 80,000 are listed as "farmers," which is another reason to attend.  Minnesota will also elect a new governor in 2010 and the precinct caucus is the first major step in that process.

What happens at a precinct caucus? Every one can be very different depending on the number of people, the local leadership, and the interest of those in attendance.  But in general, the parties identify local contacts by electing "precinct chairs" and other local party officers.  Resolutions are passed, ideas are shared, straw polls for governor may occur, and speeches from local officials such as a state senator or candidates are given. The caucuses also elect delegates to the next level of participation: the county and senate district conventions.

MFU encourages members to offer resolutions at their caucuses. They can be as simple as "Be it resolved that XXX support fair trade."  Ideas can be found in the MFU policy (found in Section B of this edition of Minnesota Agriculture) or by contacting MFU. Resolutions are important; they help craft a party's platform, and spark conversation among policy makers.  MFU also encourages members to "take it to the next level" and run for delegate to the county, congressional, and state conventions.  It is very important to have farmers represented at these meetings.

You can find your precinct caucus location by contacting your local political party, your county auditor's office, or going to the Secretary of State's website: www.sos.state.mn.us/index.aspx?page=886.  This site also has a "frequently asked caucus questions" section.

Minnesota Farmers Union is a grassroots organization; we discuss and develop policies that come from you, our members.  That is why it is important for you to attend your precinct caucuses and bring that rural Minnesota voice to them, and let our policies be heard, and help farmers be at the table when issues are being discussed and agendas are being set.

Members who have questions about the caucuses should contact MFU Director of Government Relations, Thom Petersen at 651-288-4067 or thom@mfu.org.