| For Immediate Release | For more information contact: |
| February 19, 2002 | Jessie Roos (651-296-9719) |
To the Editor:
The legislative session is in full swing, and campaigns for statewide office are beginning to get underway. I would like to take this opportunity to emphasize the importance of local citizens participating in Minnesota's political process by attending precinct caucuses.
Precinct caucuses are the first stage in the political process within our state. At precinct caucuses, local citizens begin the process of selecting candidates and issues to be supported by the political party you support in the upcoming elections. This year, precinct caucuses will be held on March 5, 2002, at 7 p.m. throughout the state.
These meetings provide Minnesotans the opportunity to be more informed and involved with their respective political parties. People in attendance at the precinct caucuses participate in the election of delegates and alternates (they may even be elected themselves!), discussion of issues, election of local party leadership, and a straw vote for their nominee for the governor's race. It is important that local citizens voice their opinions during the discussion of issues because many of the subjects discussed eventually lead to the platforms of Minnesota's political parties.
To participate and vote in a political party's caucus, you must be eligible to vote on November 5, 2002. For further information on the location of caucuses in our area, call the Ramsey County Elections Department at 651-266-2171.
Please make time to attend your political party's precinct caucus on March 5th, 2002. Remember, your voice is an essential part of what our government and your political party stands for.
Sincerely,
State Representative Carl Jacobson