Here is what to expect at a SD53 BPOU convention:
Calling all precinct delegates and alternates elected at the SD53 Caucus that was held on February 3rd. This is your chance to represent your precinct in endorsing Republican candidates and shaping the Republican Party Platform.
March 21, 2026 – 9AM – approximately 4PM
CO-OP Business Center, 1185 Concord Street North, South St Paul, MN 55075
1. The Morning Rush (9 AM – 10:30 AM)
Registration & Credentials: This is the most important part of the morning. You’ll check in at a table to get your official delegate or alternate badge. Because the convention starts at 9 AM, the registration line will likely be longest between 8:15 and 9:00.The “Call to Order”: The SD53 Chair will gavel the convention to life. You’ll start with the Pledge of Allegiance, an invocation, and the adoption of the “Rules” and “Agenda.”The Credentials Report: The convention will vote to officially “seat” the delegates. If you are an alternate, this is when you’ll find out if you’ve been moved up to a voting delegate spot due to an absence.
2. Candidate Speeches (Late Morning)
Since 2026 is a big election year (Governor, U.S. Senate, and all state legislative seats), expect a parade of candidates.Local Candidates: Candidates for State Senate District 53 and House Districts 53A and 53B will give their “stump speeches.”Visiting Candidates: You will likely hear from representatives or the candidates themselves running for statewide offices (Governor, Attorney General, etc.) seeking the BPOU’s support heading into the State Convention.
3. The Business of the Party (The “Meat” of the Day)
BPOU Elections: You’ll vote for the local leaders who will run the SD53 Republican party for the next two years.State Delegate Elections: You will vote on a slate of people to represent SD53 at the Congressional District 2 (CD2) Convention and the State Republican Convention.Endorsements: If there is a contested race for the local House or Senate seat, this is when the paper balloting happens. This can take several rounds if no one hits the 60% threshold immediately.
4. Lunch and Networking
With a 4 PM end time, there is usually a break for lunch. Sometimes it’s “on your own,” but often the BPOU or a candidate will provide a light lunch (sandwiches or pizza) for a small donation. This is the best time to actually talk to the candidates one-on-one. A Speedway station is located across the street.
5. Platform Resolutions (The Afternoon)
The final stretch usually involves debating the resolutions passed at the precinct caucuses. This is where delegates argue over specific policy language—everything from tax policy to social issues. These can get “spirited,” which is often why these conventions run right up until the 4 PM deadline.
Pro-Tips for the convention and 1185 Concord St N:
Getting In: Enter through the main front doors on Concord Street. The convention is just to your right in the vintage 1960’s auditorium. Parking: The building has three large lots (North, South, and East). Since it’s a Saturday, parking should be ample. Comfort: Professional office buildings can be notoriously chilly or over-air-conditioned. I’d recommend dressing in layers. Attend for Free: Make a refundable $75 donation provided by the Minnesota State PCR program and your $20 convention fee is waived. Click Here
