Politics of Minnesota

Minnesota is known for a politically active citizenry, with populism being a longstanding force among the state's political parties. Minnesota has consistently high voter turnout, ranking highest or near-highest in recent elections.[1][2] This is due in part to its same-day voter registration laws; previously unregistered voters can register on election day, at their polls, with evidence of residency.[3][4]

The major political parties are the Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party (DFL) and the Republican Party of Minnesota, along with the state-recognized minor parties: Grassroots–Legalize Cannabis, Legal Marijuana Now, and the Libertarian Party of Minnesota.[5] The DFL was founded in 1944 when the Minnesota Democratic Party and Minnesota Farmer–Labor Party merged. The party is affiliated with the national Democratic Party. Supporters of the DFL are often referred to as "DFLers" in Minnesota by both members and non-members of the party as an alternative to "Democrats". The state Republican Party is affiliated with the national Republican Party.

  1. ^ Ingraham, Christopher (November 9, 2022). "Minnesota voter turnout shaping up to be highest in nation yet again". Minnesota Reformer. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  2. ^ Derosier, Alex (November 16, 2022). "Minnesota outperforms US voter turnout again; No. 1 state still to be decided". Duluth News Tribune. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  3. ^ Huefner, Steven F., Daniel P Tokaji, and Edward B. Foley (2007), From Registration to Recounts: The Election Ecosystems of Five Midwestern States (Archived March 25, 2009, at the Wayback Machine), The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, p. 137 (Archived March 25, 2009, at the Wayback Machine). ISBN 978-0-9801400-0-2.
  4. ^ Most, Becca (August 23, 2022). "Why does Minnesota have the best voting record in the U.S.?". St. Cloud Times. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  5. ^ "Political parties". Minnesota Secretary of State. June 21, 2024. Retrieved August 17, 2024.