We had a sobering but hopeful message today from Dennis Smith, Chair of the Elephant Club, attorney and former legislator. Dennis reviewed the election result from this past Tuesday. It was the most significant swing from Republican to Democrat since Watergate. Notably, nationwide there were many firsts, in terms of the electorate choosing candidates of more diverse backgrounds. For instance, Minnesota now has it’s very first woman Governor. In addition, two black Governors and a native American Senator were elected among others.

Dennis encouraged us to listen to voters to decide who will represent us. He also discussed statewide races and the loss of the CD 1 congressional seat, leaving us with 5-3 D to R Congressional seats, reflective of the national trend. After the 2030 census, Minnesota WILL be reduced to 7 congressional seats.  In MN we have a structural problem: there are more Democrats than Republicans in the state. And many offices have been held by Democrats for decades, for example the Attorney General’s office has not been held by a Republican since 1966.

There is more that could be said but Minnesota’s issues this cycle are of the kitchen table sort: the economy, corruption, the Iran war/price of gas and accountability. The majority of voters were not motivated by cultural issues. But our state is not lost, we can move forward by making the party changes needed and adopting positive messaging.

Thanks to Dennis for speaking to us and sharing his insights.

Today the group elected a new leadership team. The next meeting will be Sat. Jan. 9, 2027

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