DFL Draws Larger Crowd at Senate District 14 Convention, Endorses Local Candidates and Sets Stage for State Races

(KNSI) – The Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party’s Senate District 14 convention at St. Cloud Tech High School drew 225 delegates Saturday, marking a significant increase of approximately 50 delegates compared to the convention two years ago.

Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon and DFL State Chair Richard Carlbom both addressed the enthusiastic crowd, emphasizing the importance of grassroots political participation.

Simon spoke to KNSI News immediately after getting off stage. “What I’ve seen here in St. Cloud today is a ton of turnout and energy and intensity. People are very motivated, they’re inspired, and they want to be part of getting the candidates that they support across the finish line.”

Delegates who were selected at the precinct caucuses voted to endorse Abdi Daisaine for Minnesota House 14-A, Zachary Dorholt for Minnesota House 14-B, and Aric Putnam for Minnesota Senate District 14. State representative Dan Wolgamott is running for state auditor rather than seeking re-election to his House seat.

Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan also addressed the crowd, asking for their support as she seeks the Senate endorsement at the statewide convention scheduled for late May in Rochester.

Several candidates looking to unseat Republican Whip Tom Emmer also spoke, including Anson Ambrose and Doug Chapin. Auditor candidates Wolgamott and Zach Filipovich addressed delegates as well. Delegates also had the opportunity to advance to the state convention, where these statewide races will be decided.

Simon explained the convention kicks off a time when candidates must garner party support. “This is the road to the endorsement, which is sort of the official party pick, but the people have the final say in a primary,” Simon said. The primary election is set for mid-August.

KNSI News caught up with Carlbom minutes after he spoke to the crowd. He attributed the increased turnout to growing concerns about federal policies. “People in Minnesota are turning out in droves because they’re standing up for themselves. They’ve seen this retribution campaign from Donald Trump become deadly with this insurgence of ICE agents on our streets and in our neighborhoods.”

He’s referring to the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti last month at the hands of federal agents with Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security.

Looking ahead to the legislative session beginning Tuesday, Carlbom outlined several priorities. “Every elected official, including every Democrat, should be focused on making life more affordable for Minnesotans. First and foremost, we have to make sure that we deliver on making health care more affordable, housing more affordable.”

He also highlighted addressing federal immigration enforcement actions, combating fraud in state programs, and advancing gun violence prevention measures.

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