Why the path to the mayors office runs through southwest Minneapolis

Minneapolis Ward 13 has established itself as a pivotal area in recent mayoral elections, demonstrating voter turnout rates that consistently exceed those of other wards. In the past three elections, Ward 13's turnout has been seven to 14 points higher than the city’s overall average, accounting for up to 15% of the winning candidate's votes. Scholars emphasize that the political influence of this affluent ward, characterized by high homeownership and income levels, shapes the priorities of elected officials. Betsy Hodges and Jacob Frey both benefited from strong support in Ward 13, with Frey winning re-election in 2021 largely due to his backing from this community. The heightened turnout in the 2021 election, driven by a polarizing ballot question, reached 54% citywide, with Ward 13 leading at nearly 68%.

In contrast, lower-income neighborhoods, particularly in north Minneapolis, experienced significantly lower participation rates. This stark contrast raises questions about equitable representation in city governance and the impact of socioeconomic disparities on political engagement. The trend underscores the importance of addressing voting power imbalances in shaping municipal policies.