Understanding Primary Elections in Minnesota

The video explains the voting process in Minnesota, focusing on the primary elections. It describes how the primary election narrows down candidates to one per party for the general election. The governor's race is highlighted, with an open primary system allowing voters to choose candidates from one party without registering as party members. The video also covers the extensive list of races on the primary ballot, including local nonpartisan offices. It provides details on voting logistics, such as polling times and absentee balloting options, encouraging voters to participate in the democratic process.

What is the main purpose of a primary election?

• To elect the President

• To select one candidate from each party for the general election

• To vote on local issues

• To register new voters

Why is the governor's race particularly competitive this year?

• The election is being held earlier than usual

• The current governor is running for re-election

• The office is wide open as the current governor is not running

• There are no candidates from the Republican party

What does it mean that Minnesota has an open primary?

• You must register as a member of a political party to vote

• Only independent candidates can run

• You can vote for candidates from multiple parties

• You do not have to register as a member of a political party to vote

What happens if you vote for candidates from more than one party in the primary?

• You get a warning but your vote still counts

• Your vote only counts for the first candidate

• Your ballot gets tossed out

• Your ballot gets counted twice

How are Republican and Democratic candidates identified on the ballot?

• They are listed alphabetically

• They are listed in separate sections

• They are labeled with their party affiliation

• They are identified by different colors

What types of races are included on the primary ballot in Minnesota this year?

• Only nonpartisan offices

• Only the governor's race

• Only local city offices

• Both U.S. Senate seats, all eight congressional seats, and several state offices

What should you remember to do with your ballot?

• Vote for candidates from both parties

• Flip it over to vote for local ballot questions and nonpartisan offices

• Sign it at the bottom

• Mail it immediately

When is the primary election held in Minnesota?

• The second Tuesday in August

• The last Friday in July

• The first Tuesday in November

• The first Monday in September

What are the polling hours on primary election day in Minnesota?

• 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

• 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

• 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

How many days before the election can you vote using absentee balloting in Minnesota?

• 15 days

• 46 days

• 30 days

• 60 days