MN SF3816

Minor political party candidates for partisan offices (except presidential elector) may access the general election ballot by filing an affidavit of candidacy with a nomination certificate from their party, rather than through nominating petitions

Redefines "minor political party" requirements to focus on maintaining a state party organization, complying with party constitution and rules, and meeting new state convention requirements (held at least every two years)

Minor party presidential electors and alternates are nominated by the party's state executive committee and certified to the secretary of state at least 71 days before the general election, same timeline as major parties

Minor party candidates are explicitly excluded from state primary ballots and instead appear directly on the general election ballot after major party candidates but before petition candidates

Effective for elections occurring after November 3, 2026