Last week, in a chaotic and divisive convention, the Minnesota DFL endorsed State Senator Omar Fateh, a self-proclaimed socialist, over incumbent Mayor Jacob Frey. The blistering convention put a national spotlight back on Minnesota’s unusual and influential endorsement process. To the surprise of many across the country, both Minnesota Democrats and Republicans use a powerful party convention system ahead of the primary. Let’s break it down:
In Minnesota, before voters head to the polls for a primary, candidates for offices ranging from governor to U.S. Senate to City Council must first compete for their party’s endorsement through a convention. They are chosen by delegates, elected local party members. But these aren’t just run of the mill voters. Delegates are party faithfuls who attend caucuses (like those for president) and multiple local conventions before being seated for conventions to choose statewide candidates like governor or U.S. Senate. Basically, they are the ultimate grassroots supporters.
At these in-person conventions, delegates vote to endorse a candidate. A candidate must earn 60% of the delegate vote to win the endorsement. This sometimes takes multiple rounds, with delegates changing their support. Once a candidate reaches that 60% threshold, they secure the party’s official backing and become the party’s officially endorsed candidate.
Let’s be clear: these endorsements can be kingmakers. Often, they clear the field, consolidate support, and pave a smooth path to victory. Candidates with party support have access to party funds and resources, giving them a critical advantage. Other times, candidates who lose the endorsement, like Jacob Frey, contemplate staying in the race anyway and take their slim, dwindling chances to the primary. The party’s adherence to the endorsement proves important – Republicans have not chosen a candidate in the primary who was not their endorsed candidate since 1991.
Minnesota’s wacky convention process isn’t unique. States like Utah allow a candidate to skip the primary entirely if they win 60% of convention delegates. In North Dakota, GOP conventions often decide down-ballot races altogether.
It’s important to understand the nuances of each state and how internal primary conventions play out. At K2, we help candidates navigate the ins and outs of conventions, delegate strategy, and the do’s and don’ts of building support from the inside out. Senator Omar Fateh’s endorsement is a reminder: conventions matter. And it’s never too early to start thinking about your own. Drop us a line and let us know how we can help you.
-Noah Evans, Communications Director