Minnesotans cast their votes in the 2024 primaries, get into ‘election mode’ for November

MINNEAPOLIS — Are primary day in minnesota and voters have until 8 p.m. to cast their ballots.

“Be accountable to the community you live in by choosing who represents you,” said Minneapolis resident Jodi Williams.

At the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center, there was a steady stream of primary voters on Tuesday.

“Sometimes I feel like I can’t do much to improve my community, but I know that on a day like today I can make a difference if I’m there,” said Christine Bright.

It’s driving Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon also to the polls.

“I hope Minnesotans realize the next disaster is almost here,” Simon said.

Simon made the rounds Tuesday, visiting polling places in Chaska, Hopkins and Minneapolis. He says he’s on a mission to get Minnesotans in what he calls “election mode.” Simon says the primaries are a warm-up for race day in November.

“For the election judges and poll workers, some of whom haven’t worked in elections for a year or two, this is a chance to shake off the rust and get back into the swing of things,” he said.

Simon says turnout in primaries is difficult to predict, but close races typically draw more people to the polls. important races to watch in this primary there is a DFL re-run between candidates from the Fifth Congressional District.

“If there is a match that is seen as very exciting, then the turnout is high. If there are matches that are not seen as very exciting, then the turnout tends to be lower,” Simon said.

Polling stations are open until 8pm. As long as you are in line before 8pm, you can vote.

CBS News Minnesota will air special coverage of the primaries after the polls close Tuesday at 9 p.m.