DFL Senate District 14 Convention Draws 225 Delegates in St. Cloud

(KNSI) — The Minnesota DFL’s Senate District 14 convention at St. Cloud Tech High School drew 225 delegates Saturday, an increase of about 50 delegates compared to the convention two years ago.

Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon addressed the crowd, emphasizing the importance of grassroots political participation, telling KNSI News what he saw “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.”

Simon explained the convention kicks off a time when candidates work to get 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.” The primary election is set for mid-August.

DFL State Party Chair Richard Carlbom attributed the increased turnout to 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 increase 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 Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection agents.

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-related violence prevention measures.

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

Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan also addressed the crowd, asking for their support as she hopes to earn the party’s endorsement at the statewide DFL convention scheduled for late May in Rochester.

Several candidates looking to unseat Republican Whip Tom Emmer also spoke, including Anson Ambrose and Doug Chapin.

The Republican Senate District 14 convention will be held Saturday, February 21, at the Jubilee Worship Center in St. Cloud.

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