Precinct caucuses are defined by the Minnesota Secretary of State (SOS) as "meetings run by Minnesota’s political parties" that serve as "the first in a series of meetings where parties may endorse candidates, select delegates, and set goals and values." Specifically, attendees "choose delegates who will endorse candidates at future conventions," which ultimately shapes the party's representation in various government offices. Unlike primary elections, which are administered by state and local governments, caucuses are organized and managed entirely by the political parties themselves.

The SOS’s office shares that during these meetings, community members "choose volunteers who will organize political activities in the precinct," such as door-knocking or phone-banking. Additionally, the caucus serves as the starting point for platform development, where attendees "discuss issues and ideas for the party to support." If a resolution passes at the precinct level, it may eventually "become part of the official party platform" at higher-level conventions.

Cook County officials noted that attending a caucus is a significant way to "influence who the party will endorse for many offices" and to "raise an issue" that carries personal or community importance. 

Learn more at: https://www.sos.mn.gov/elections-voting/how-elections-work/precinct-caucuses/