These 2 questions have been the subject of debate since the IP's founding. Members have been on both sides of these two questions over the years and have often switched their views on both questions. Indeed at one time we did not allow cross endorsements, but several years ago members voted to allow for them.
It is time therefore that the IP grass roots (our state delegates) vote on both of these issues. Recent changes by Governor Pawlenty that eliminated the Political Contribution Refund (PCR) for parties and their candidates means that it will be even more difficult for our candidates in state elections next year to fund their campaigns. Since there is no longer public funding for campaigns, perhaps our candidates should be able to accept PAC contributions.
Should we allow this to provide a more “level playing field” for IP candidates?
Cross endorsements have also been the subject of much debate within the IP. In 2008 state delegates cross endorsed the DFL candidate in the 6th US Congressional District race, a highly publicized race, but many believe the candidate did not use our endorsement to his advantage. Therefore the question: should we continue to allow cross endorsements in campaigns where candidates file on a party ballot line?
All state delegates will be allowed to debate and vote on both of these questions at the Nov. 21 (Saturday) convention. It will be held at Northview Junior High School in Brooklyn Park.
All state delegates of record will be receiving a US mailed call with complete information. Start time will be announced in the mailed notice. Please READ YOUR CALL CAREFULLY for information on other topics will be on the agenda, such as: other proposed bylaw changes, state party platform review and voting on new proposed planks.
If you are a state delegate and have moved in the last year, you may no longer be a state delegate and will most likely not receive a call. If you have any questions on your delegate status, please contact your Congressional District (CD) Chair to find out if you may be able to become a delegate again. YOU MUST CONTACT your CD Chair AT LEAST 14 days before the convention to have your delegate status reinstated. This will NOT be done on the day of the convention. All contact info for CD chairs is on this web site and we urge you to take responsibility to make contact with party leaders on any concerns or questions.
The same day, prior to the State Convention, a short Central Committee meeting will be held. Central Committee members are all members of the Executive Committee, all Legislative District (LD) Chairs and all LD Central Committee delegates. If you have any questions on the status of your central committee membership, also contact your CD Chairs. All CC members will receive a call to the CC meeting and proposed agenda in the same mailing as the State Convention Call. The outcome of the vote at these meetings will have a profound effect on the future of the IP. The party belongs to those who show up and participate. We sincerely hope you can attend this important party meeting on Nov. 21.
