Residents poured into North Branch High School on Super Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2008 to make their voices heard.
A total of 1,272 Democrats cast ballots that evening. Two years earlier, just 362 had attended the precinct caucus.
The majority supported Barrack Obama, but Hillary Clinton trailed closely on his heels.
The results in Chisago County fit what occurred statewide. Overall, 67% of Minnesota Democrats favor Obama; 32% are behind Clinton. Minnesota does not match what occurred nationally, however. Overall, Clinton leads but not by much.
The Chisago County turnout was greater than planners had anticipated, and folks had to share agendas and resolution forms.
"It's nice to see so many people engaged," said North Branch resident Barb Buckley.
Her husband, David, who served as caucus chair, pointed out that only 350 days remain until the next president is inaugurated.
After casting their votes for president, caucus attendees discussed issues they are concerned about.
Residents on the north side of North Branch debated transportation, the No Child Left Behind Act, unfunded federal mandates and prevailing wage laws. Union worker Mike Warner advocated for a pay-as-you-go system to fund Minnesota's transportation needs.
"We have to stop bonding for roads and bridges," Warner stated. "We bond for this stuff; it wears out before we pay for it." His resolution was approved unanimously by those in attendance, and will be considered by those that attend the county caucus in March.
Warner also advocated for prevailing wage standards. Such laws "keep local people on local projects," said Warner.
LynnMarie Stroman lended her support to the resolution, expressing her frustration when workers are imported from elsewhere to work on local projects. This resolution also passed unanimously.
Generating much discussion was a resolution proposing that all mandates of the No Child Left Behind Act be fully funded. However, those in the room disagreed on the value of the No Child Left Behind Act. "No Child Left Behind has not been well received by schools," said Verna Hoppe.
Others talked about there not being enough teachers or support aides in classrooms. "It's the system that's broke," noted Eddie Howard-El. That resolution failed.
Instead, North Branch residents supported a resolution that would force the federal government to fully fund any mandate it imposes. "I think it is unfair for government units to submit proposals or pass laws that will compel local governments to pay for things they literally cannot afford," said David Buckley. The resolution passed.
Residents also passed a resolution asking that more money go towards teachers and teachers aides. "I do believe our schools have suffered because of lack of funds," said Barb Buckley. Another resident pointed out that folks have to take personal responsibility for their schools. He noted that a referendum to put more money into North Branch schools has been shot down by voters.
Next step
The Chisago County DFL nominating caucus will be held on Thursday night, March 6, 7 p.m. at the North Branch High School. The general county caucus will be Saturday, March 15, beginning at noon, at the high school. At that caucus resolutions passed on Feb. 5 will be discussed, state delegates appointed, and ballots cast in support of presidential candidates.
Kathy Bloomquist greets DFL caucus attendees and hands each a ballot on Tuesday night, Feb. 5. The majority of voters supported Barrack Obama, although Hillary Clinton wasn't far behind. (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen)