Topline takeaway: Minnesota once again led the nation in voter turnout. Continue your advocacy passion at MCN’s inaugural Nonprofit Day at the Capitol, February 22, 2027.
Minnesotans have once again demonstrated our state’s strong civic culture and longstanding commitment to civic participation. Once again leading the nation in voter turnout, Minnesotans showed up in record numbers for this year’s midterm election. Before Election Day, more than one million Minnesotans had already cast their ballots early, setting a new state record for early voting in a midterm election.
This year, Minnesotans demonstrated what it means to care for our neighbors and participate in shaping the future of our communities. We send our deepest gratitude to the election workers who administered a fair, secure, and accessible voting process; to the nonprofits and community organizations that helped people navigate the electoral process and access trusted information; and to local government officials who worked tirelessly to administer elections across our state. We congratulate the people elected and look forward to engaging leaders to advance policies that strengthen our communities and support the nonprofit sector, across the political spectrum.
This year’s election took place amid heightened concerns about threats to election workers, voter intimidation, misinformation, and efforts to undermine public trust. These concerns underscore the importance of Minnesota’s strong election infrastructure, established safeguards, and the dedicated public servants who uphold them. Our commitment to free and fair elections means respecting the processes that ensure accuracy and transparency, including canvassing, post-election reviews, and recounts when warranted.
Protecting democracy does not begin and end on Election Day. It requires ongoing participation, investment, and a commitment to the constitutional principles, public institutions, and people that make our democracy possible. Regardless of election outcomes, the work of building strong, equitable, and thriving communities continues. Nonprofits are an essential part of that work: strengthening civic participation, connecting neighbors, providing trusted information, and ensuring that communities have a voice in the decisions that affect their lives.
We are proud of the work that has taken place across Minnesota, today and every day. We celebrate the Minnesotans who participated, the people who made this election possible, and the continued commitment to protecting the democratic institutions and constitutional rights that allow our communities to thrive.
Don’t let this civic engagement spirit dwindle.
Register today for MCN’s 2027 Nonprofit Day at the Capitol, taking place February 22 in the Capitol Rotunda. Rally with nonprofits from across Minnesota to show our collective power, reclaim our positive narrative, and ensure our voices are heard in the halls of power. After, meet with legislators to share sector-wide and organization-specific advocacy priorities. This is a great opportunity for policy folks, nonprofit leaders, and anyone who is interested in supporting the nonprofit sector. The event is free to attend but space is limited – save your spot by November 20!
Upcoming MCN Policy and Advocacy Events:
- November 24 (virtual): Advocacy 201 – Strategic Advocacy
- December 08 (virtual, FREE): Briefing: State Grant Contract Advocacy
- December 15 (virtual): Understanding Lobbying: A Practical Guide to Lobbying Compliance
- January 11, 2027 (virtual, FREE): The Organizational Wheel of Power: A New Resource for Reflection and Action
- January 22, 2027 (in-person, Wilder, St. Paul): 2027 Session Line Up
- February 22, 2027 (in-person, Minnesota State Capitol, FREE): Nonprofit Day at the Capitol