Minnesota Independence Party Candidates
2010 Caucus Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
MN Independence Party caucus night FAQ’s
Q. What do IP caucus attendees do?
A:
1. Discuss public policy issues with your neighbors
- Create, debate and pass resolutions on public policy issues
- Discuss and pass resolutions to shape the IP party platform or local party issue
- Resolutions that are passed are forwarded to the State Party convention for further action.
2. Indicate if you are interested in signing up to be an election judge
3. Nominate & elect delegates and alternates for the local legislative district, IP Congressional District (CD) and the State Convention
- You can self – nominate!
- Delegates and alternates will vote at CD level and State Conventions to adopt resolutions, amend the party platform and endorse candidates for office.
4. Vote in a straw poll
- There will be a straw poll – a preferential poll – for Independence Party candidates for governor.
- You simply write the name of your preferred IP candidate for Governor.
- Any ballot with a candidate from another party will be void and not counted.
Q. Why should I participate in my caucus?
A. Caucuses are the foundation of the party’s grassroots organization. You can:
- Learn more about public policy issues you are interested in
- Help shape public policy by discussion or sponsoring resolutions
- Learn how you can become more involved in the political process
Q. I am new to the political process and/or I am new to the Independence Party. Aren’t the caucuses for long standing party regulars?
A. Absolutely Not! The Independence Party welcomes everyone who shares their values and wants to learn more about our positions. We often welcome those who are new to the process and those who left their previous party affiliation because it became too politicized vs focusing on solving the problems of our state and building for the future.
Q. Will the Caucus participants vote to endorse or otherwise support specific candidates?
A. No. The IP Constitution and By-Laws have very specific criteria that must be met for candidate endorsement. Candidate endorsement typically occurs at the Legislative District, Congressional District and State Conventions where IP delegates and alternates will vote, consistent with these specific criteria.
Q. Can anyone participate in the online caucus?
A. The requirements for participating in the online caucus are the same as participating at a regular caucus location?
