Minneapolis Ward 2 DFL convention ends with no City Council endorsement

Minneapolis DFL delegates failed to endorse a candidate to challenge incumbent Robin Wonsley for the City Council's Ward 2 seat, which covers the University of Minnesota and surrounding neighborhoods. Former state Rep. Shelley Madore received 53% of votes, falling 7 percentage points short of the 60% required for endorsement after Michael Baskins withdrew. Meanwhile, Alexander Fooy garnered 5% of the votes, and 40% of delegates opted for “no endorsement. ” Attempts to extend the convention were unsuccessful, and votes for Wonsley's supporters were ruled invalid since she did not seek endorsement.

A Hennepin County District Judge ruled the convention should proceed to minimize confusion and promote attendance, despite a lawsuit from some delegates. Wonsley stated she did not seek endorsement to maintain the ward's independence from the DFL party and expressed concerns about conservative influences on challengers. Candidates can petition DFL officials for another endorsement event, with early voting for the City Council race scheduled to open on September 9. Election Day is set for November 4.