The Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State reminds individuals interested in running for most public offices in Minnesota in 2026 that the official candidate filing periods are fast approaching.
Federal Offices
Candidates for U.S. Senator and U.S. Representative may file from May 19, 2026 until June 2, 2026 at 5 p.m.
State Offices
Candidates for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, State Auditor, Attorney General, State Senator, State Representative and any Judicial office may file from May 19, 2026 until June 2, 2026 at 5 p.m.
County Offices
Candidates for county offices such as County Attorney, County Sheriff, County Commissioner, and Soil and Water Supervisor may file from May 19, 2026 until June 2, 2026 at 5 p.m.
City Offices
The filing dates for city offices such as Mayor and Council Member depend on whether the city holds primaries or not.
Candidates in cities where a primary is possible may file from May 19, 2026 until June 2, 2026 at 5 p.m.
Candidates in cities where a primary is not held may file from July 14, 2026 until July 28, 2026 at 5 p.m.
School District Offices
The filing dates for school district offices such as School Board Member depend on whether the school district holds primaries or not.
Candidates in school districts where a primary is possible may file from May 19, 2026 until June 2, 2026 at 5 p.m.
Candidates in school districts where a primary is not held may file from July 14, 2026 until July 28, 2026 at 5 p.m.
Candidates can find information about filing for office, along with information on campaign finance, filing a campaign committee, and fair campaign practices, at www.sos.state.mn.us in the “Election Administration & Campaigns” section.
