Election 2024: What’s at stake for Minnesotans this election cycle
Writer: Chérie Lynn Canada
July 2024 — Minnesota, considered a top state for business in a recent CNBC study, has several local and statewide elections that could chart a new path for the Land of 10,000 Lakes. The outcome will determine the control of the Minnesota House of Representatives, key U.S. House seats, and a U.S. Senate seat, alongside various local and statewide ballot measures that could impact everything from healthcare to business regulations.
Minnesota operates under a first-past-the-post voting system for state and federal offices. This year, the primary election is scheduled for Aug. 13, where major party candidates will be nominated for state offices, federal legislative offices, and several judicial and local offices. Minnesota has a diverse voter population, with over 3.5 million registered voters as of the 2020 election, reflecting its varied demographics and political inclinations.
One of the most closely watched contests in Minnesota this year is the U.S. Senate race, where Senator Amy Klobuchar is vying for a fourth term. Early polling shows Klobuchar holding a substantial lead over potential Republican contenders, including Navy veteran Joe Fraser and Patrick Munro, according to the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB).
In Minneapolis, all seats on the City Council are up for election. These races are particularly pivotal given recent debates over police reform and public safety following the 2020 protests. In Saint Paul, the mayoral race is also drawing attention, with incumbent Mayor Melvin Carter seeking re-election amid discussions on affordable housing and public health initiatives.
READ MORE: Spotlight On: Melvin Carter, Mayor, City of Saint Paul
Rochester’s local elections include several city council seats and mayoral races. Given the city’s prominence as a medical hub with the state’s largest public-private economic initiative, known as Destination Medical Center (DMC), a key focus is on healthcare policy. Candidates are emphasizing healthcare accessibility and infrastructure improvements.
Several local ballot measures could significantly impact Minnesota’s business community and environmental stewardship. The city of Anoka question on organized solid waste collection could influence operational costs for local businesses. If a competitive market is maintained, businesses might benefit from lower waste collection costs. Conversely, a government-chosen system could lead to higher or more stable costs, depending on how it’s managed.
At the state level, The Environment and Natural Resources Fund Amendment, appearing on Minnesota’s 2024 ballot, proposes extending the dedication of lottery-derived revenue to the trust fund for an additional 25 years. This fund, established to support projects that conserve Minnesota’s natural resources and enhance environmental protection, relies significantly on proceeds from the state lottery. The extension would ensure continuous financial support for initiatives aimed at preserving the state’s natural habitats, improving water quality, and promoting outdoor recreational activities, thereby fostering long-term environmental stewardship and sustainability. By securing this revenue stream, Minnesota aims to maintain and enhance its environmental conservation efforts well into the future.
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The outcomes of the primary election held Aug. 13 will determine the candidates that voters will choose from in November. Primary elections determine the candidates from each party who will appear on the Nov. 5 general election ballot for federal, state, and local offices. While the presidential primary in Minnesota was held in March, voters may still find multiple Republican candidates running for Congress or several Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) candidates vying for a state House seat. Only one candidate from each party will advance to the November ballot. In Minnesota’s Fifth Congressional District, the DFL primary race features U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar and former Minneapolis City Council member Don Samuels. In the Second District, Republican candidates include attorney Tayler Rahm and former federal prosecutor Joe Teirab. For nonpartisan races, the top vote-getters will move on to the November election, according to Star Tribune.
The 2024 Minnesota elections are poised to influence the state and potentially the national political scene. Voters will decide on a range of important issues, from legislative control to key policy changes impacting healthcare, business, and public safety. As candidates’ campaigns and debates intensify, Minnesotans will have the opportunity to shape the direction of their state on Nov. 5.
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