Election Season is Here-Absentee Voting For Primary Starts Today

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - Absentee balloting for the August 13 primary election opens today.

Locally, voters are being asked to narrow the field of candidates for the four positions on the Rochester City Council up for election this year. Current 5th Ward Councilmember Shaun Palmer, Randy Schubring, and Dean Koutsoukos are vying for the City Council President's position that is being vacated by Brooke Carlson.

Primary elections are also needed in the 2nd Ward, where Councilmember Mark Bransford has decided not to seek reelection. Former Rochester School Board member Breanna Bly, Nick Miller, Loring Stead, and Tripp Welch all signed up as candidates for the position.

In the 4th Ward, incumbent Kelly Rae Kirkpatrick is being challenged by Andy Friederichs and Cory Sorgenfire. Sixth Ward Councilmember Molly Dennis is running for reelection and faces three challengers: Dan Doering, Mark Schluesner, and Becca Dyer Tesch.

Absentee ballots can be requested online through the Minnesota Secretary of State office. Completed absentee ballots can be returned by mail, or dropped off in person at the Olmsted County Elections Office at 2122 Campus Drive Southeast Monday through Friday from 8 AM until 10 PM.

County election officials say absentee balloting in person will be offered in late July.

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