Lauderdale, Minnesota Public Records

Minnesota makes registration convenient through the Secretary of State's online portal at mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us, where eligible citizens can register or update their information up to 21 days before an election. The state also permits same-day registration at polling places on Election Day for those who bring proper proof of residence—a Minnesota driver's license, state ID, tribal ID, or a registered voter from the same precinct willing to vouch for the applicant's address. Municipal elections in the city follow a staggered schedule, with the mayor serving a two-year term and council members holding four-year terms. Some council seats come up for election every two years, ensuring continuity while allowing regular opportunities for civic participation. These municipal elections occur on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November during even-numbered years, aligning with state and federal elections. The next Lauderdale municipal elections are scheduled for November 2026, when voters will select city council members and potentially the mayor depending on the election cycle. Information about candidate filings and local ballot measures appears on the city website at www.ci.lauderdale.mn.us and at City Hall. Residents can identify their assigned polling place using the Polling Place Finder at pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us or by contacting the Ramsey County elections office directly. Given the community's small size, Lauderdale typically operates one or two polling locations, often at community centers or nearby public buildings. Minnesota law provides extensive public access to election records under Minnesota Statutes Section 13.37 and related provisions. Voter registration lists constitute public data available for purchase for lawful purposes, though birthdates and driver's license numbers remain private. Campaign finance reports for candidates at all levels can be searched through the Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board at cfb.mn.gov, revealing contributions and expenditures for registered candidates and committees. Candidate filings, including petitions and affidavits of candidacy, are public records accessible through the Ramsey County elections office or city clerk. After each election, precinct-level results are published by the Ramsey County Elections Office and Minnesota Secretary of State, offering detailed vote totals broken down by municipality and precinct. In the November 2024 presidential election, Ramsey County recorded approximately 67% voter turnout with over 260,000 ballots cast from approximately 388,000 registered voters, demonstrating strong civic engagement throughout Ramsey County including this community. On November 3, 2026, voters in Lauderdale and across Ramsey County will decide several significant races. While Minnesota's U.S. Senate seat currently held by Amy Klobuchar will not be up for election in 2026, the other Senate seat will be contested. The Minnesota Governor's race will occur in 2026 as gubernatorial elections happen in midterm years divisible by four. All 134 Minnesota House seats and approximately half of the 67 Minnesota Senate seats will be on the ballot, including districts that cover the city. Ramsey County offices up for election in 2026 may include County Commissioner seats, County Attorney, Sheriff, and other constitutional offices depending on the election cycle. Lauderdale city council seats will also be decided. Minnesota offers no-excuse absentee voting, allowing any registered voter to request an absentee ballot without stating a reason. Absentee ballot applications can be submitted online at mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us starting 46 days before Election Day, or voters can apply in person at the Ramsey County Elections Office beginning 46 days before the election and continuing through the day before Election Day. Early in-person voting at designated locations also begins 46 days before Election Day.