Everything you need to know to cast your ballot in Minnesota's August primary election

The results of Tuesday's primary will shape the candidate matchups that voters will choose from in November.

By Briana Bierschbach Star Tribune

August 13, 2024 — 9:48am

Minnesota's August primary election is Tuesday, and voting is already underway.

Under state law, early voting began 46 days before the primary, which will determine which candidates land on the state's general election ballot in November.

"This is the opportunity for every voter in Minnesota to help determine who or what is on the menu," Secretary of State Steve Simon said as early voting started, encouraging eligible voters to cast a ballot.

Already more than 104,000 Minnesotans have had their absentee ballots accepted by the Secretary of State's office, but most people will vote in-person at their polling place on election day.

Here's what you need to know about the primary and how to cast your ballot.

What is the primary election?

Primary elections determine which candidates from each party will appear on the Nov. 5 general election ballot for federal, state and local offices. The presidential primary in Minnesota was held in March, but there might be more than one Republican running for Congress in your area, or several DFL candidates running for the state House. Only one from each party can be on your ballot in November.

What are some races to watch?

For voters in Minnesota's Fifth Congressional District, there will be a DFL primary race that includes U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar and former Minneapolis City Council member Don Samuels. In Minnesota's U.S. Senate race, there's a Republican primary between endorsed GOP candidate and former NBA player Royce White and Joe Fraser, a businessman and former Navy intelligence officer.

In nonpartisan races, the top vote-getters advance to November's election.

Who's on my ballot in Minnesota?

Voters have different candidates on their ballot depending on where they live in the state. You can see who's on your primary ballot by punching in your address in this interactive tool.

Can I vote in primary races for both major parties?

No. Once you get your ballot, you can only vote for candidates from one political party. If you vote for candidates from more than one political party, your votes will not count. Each party has a separate column on the ballot.

What about party registration and privacy?

Minnesota does not have political party registration, and your party preference in the August primary is not made public.

What time do polls open?

Polls are open on Aug. 13 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you are in line before polls close you are still allowed to cast a ballot.

What if I'm not registered?

You had until July 23 to register to vote ahead of the primary, but if you missed that deadline, you can provide proof of residence at an in-person voting location on Election Day. If you don't have proof of residence, a registered voter from your precinct can go with you to the polling place to sign an oath confirming your address.

What about voting on Election Day?

You can use the Secretary of State's poll finder to figure out your Election Day voting location. It's likely a community center, church or school in your neighborhood.