The Minnesota Supreme Court has ruled that election judges must be appointed for early voting polling places ahead of the November 3, 2026 general election. This decision affects the City of Minneapolis and could set a precedent for how early voting is managed in Minnesota.
The ruling comes from the case Minnesota Voters Alliance v. City of Minneapolis, docket number A26-0997, where the Minnesota Voters Alliance and Diane Napper filed a petition against the City and its clerk, Casey Carl. The petitioners argued that Minnesota law requires election judges to perform specific tasks during the early voting period, which lasts 18 days before the election. The court's decision emphasizes the importance of having trained personnel available to assist voters during this crucial time.
The dispute arose after the petitioners claimed that the City had not made necessary preparations to staff early voting locations with election judges. They contended that election judges are required to resolve voter status challenges, administer the vouching process during registration, assist voters with ballot marking, and provide curbside voting for individuals unable to enter polling places.
The case reached the Minnesota Supreme Court after the City questioned the court's jurisdiction over the claims made by the petitioners. The court held oral arguments on August 4, 2026, to address both jurisdictional issues and the merits of the petitioners' claims.
The court ruled in favor of the petitioners, stating, "The plain, unambiguous language of section 203B.30 requires election judges during early voting to resolve challenges to a voter’s status and to administer the vouching process for voter registration." The court also noted that the requirements for ballot-marking assistance and curbside voting must apply during early voting, just as they do on election day.
In its order, the court mandated that the City appoint election judges at early voting polling places for the upcoming election. The ruling requires the City to ensure that election judges are present to assist voters with challenges, registration, and other necessary tasks. The court's decision reinforces the need for compliance with Minnesota election laws, particularly as early voting is being implemented for the first time in 2026.
This ruling is significant as it clarifies the responsibilities of election officials during the early voting period. It also highlights the importance of having trained personnel available to assist voters and ensure a smooth voting process. The decision could influence how other municipalities in Minnesota prepare for early voting and may lead to changes in election procedures statewide.
The impact of this ruling extends beyond the City of Minneapolis. It sets a clear expectation for how early voting should be conducted in Minnesota, potentially affecting future elections and the administration of voting laws. The requirement for election judges to be present at early voting sites may encourage other cities to adopt similar measures to ensure compliance with state laws.
Looking ahead, it is unclear whether the City of Minneapolis will appeal the court's ruling. The court's decision provides a clear directive, but the City may seek further clarification or contest certain aspects of the ruling. Additionally, there may be related cases as other municipalities prepare for early voting in the upcoming election.