UNDERSTANDING MINNESOTA PRIMARY ELECTION
July 30, 2026
By Vivian LaMoore, Inaajimowin Editor
Minnesota voters will head to the polls on Tuesday, August. 11, for the state's primary election. While the November general election often receives the most attention, the primary plays an important role in deciding who will appear on that ballot. For Band members, participating in the primary is one way to help shape decisions that can affect tribal communities at the local, state and federal levels.
A primary election is used to narrow the field of candidates seeking the same office. Instead of choosing the final winner, voters decide which candidate from each political party will move on to the November general election.
For example, several candidates from one political party may be running for governor. Because only one candidate from each party can appear on the November ballot, voters in the primary decide which candidate will represent that party in the general election.
Minnesota's primary ballot may include both partisan and nonpartisan races. Partisan offices include state and federal positions such as governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state, state legislators, members of Congress and the U.S. Senate. Candidates for these offices are listed by political party.
When voting in partisan races, voters may choose candidates from one political party only. If votes are cast for candidates from more than one political party, the partisan portion of the ballot will not be counted. Minnesota does not require voters to register with a political party ahead of time. Instead, each voter chooses which party's candidates to vote for when completing their ballot.
Voting in the primary is important because it helps determine who will be making decisions on issues that affect Minnesotans every day. For Tribal Nations, those decisions can include funding for education and health care, infrastructure, public safety, environmental protections, economic development and policies that impact tribal sovereignty and government-to-government relationships.
Eligible Minnesota voters may cast their ballot by mail or vote early in person through Aug. 10. Primary Election Day is Tuesday, Aug. 11. Voters who register before the deadline can save time at the polls, although Minnesota also allows eligible residents to register on Election Day with proper identification and proof of residence.
Every election provides an opportunity to make your voice heard. Whether voting early, by mail or at the polls on Election Day, participating in the primary helps shape the choices voters will have in November and ensures your voice is part of the democratic process.