Becker County Sample Ballot & Voter Guide 2026
38 candidates are on the November 3, 2026 ballot across 28 Becker County races, led by the Becker County Auditor-Treasurer contest.
County offices
Auditor-TreasurerKim Frederick · Amy RosingFrederick (Nonpartisan) A customer-service driven approach to the officeRosing (Nonpartisan) Accuracy, consistency and transparency in the office
Kim Frederick
- A customer-service driven approach to the office
- Cross-training and succession planning within the office
- Improving information-sharing between county departments while keeping the office independent of county administration
Per the Detroit Lakes Tribune.
About Kim Frederick
All that could be confirmed here is the certified filing for Becker County Auditor-Treasurer as listed by KAXE. She did not respond to KAXE's outreach and no occupation detail was verifiable within this review. No campaign website was found as of September 8, 2026.
Amy Rosing
- Accuracy, consistency and transparency in the office
- Staying current with changing election and finance laws
- Fostering collaborative teamwork among staff
Per the Detroit Lakes Tribune.
About Amy Rosing
All that could be confirmed here is the certified filing for Becker County Auditor-Treasurer as listed by KAXE. She did not respond to KAXE's outreach and no occupation detail was verifiable within this review. No campaign website was found as of September 8, 2026.
Amy Rosing and Kim Frederick advanced from the August 11 nonpartisan primary with about 38 and 25 percent, eliminating Zac Baer, Nathan Martin, Darin O Halvorson, and Brent Benscoter, per the Minnesota Secretary of State's certified results; the top two meet on the November 3 ballot.
Commissioner District 1Daniel Bergstrom · Erica JepsonJepson (Nonpartisan) Supporting sheriff's deputies, saying county fiscal strength has relied on their work
Daniel Bergstrom and Erica Jepson are on the November 3, 2026 ballot for Becker County Commissioner District 1.
Daniel Bergstrom
No published priorities; profile only.
About Daniel Bergstrom
Daniel Bergstrom appears on the November 3, 2026 ballot for Becker County Commissioner District 1, per the Minnesota Secretary of State's candidate filings. No campaign website was found as of September 6, 2026; the Secretary of State's candidate filing is the only verifiable source for Daniel Bergstrom.
Erica Jepson
- Supporting sheriff's deputies, saying county fiscal strength has relied on their work
- Addressing county staff turnover, citing over 50 employee resignations under the new administrator
- Bringing independent, fiscally responsible judgment to the board
About Erica Jepson
Erica Jepson is a farmer and child welfare expert who worked at White Earth Indian Child Welfare and Becker County Human Services before taking a role with the Minnesota Department of Human Services, per the Detroit Lakes Tribune. She is running for the open District 1 seat being vacated by longtime Commissioner Larry Knutson, per the same paper. No campaign website was found as of September 6, 2026.
2 candidates on the November 3, 2026 ballot for Becker County Commissioner District 1, per the Minnesota Secretary of State's candidate filings.
Commissioner District 2David MeyerMeyer (Nonpartisan) Wants to address county employee retention, noting more than 50 workers have left since January
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
David Meyer Incumbent
- Wants to address county employee retention, noting more than 50 workers have left since January
- Points to his business experience with employees and budgets
- Wants the county to work better with the city of Detroit Lakes
About David Meyer
David Meyer appears on the November 3, 2026 ballot for Becker County Commissioner District 2, per the Minnesota Secretary of State's candidate filings. No campaign website was found as of September 6, 2026; the Secretary of State's candidate filing is the only verifiable source for David Meyer.
David Meyer is the only candidate on the November 3, 2026 ballot for Becker County Commissioner District 2, per the Minnesota Secretary of State's candidate filings (Minnesota prints unopposed county races).
SheriffShane Richard · Luke SweereRichard (Nonpartisan) Increase deputy, jail, and dispatcher staffing levelsSweere (Nonpartisan) Invest in ongoing training and expand community partnerships for evolving public-safety challenges
Shane Richard and Luke Sweere are on the November 3, 2026 ballot for Becker County Sheriff.
Shane Richard
- Increase deputy, jail, and dispatcher staffing levels
- Place school resource deputies and revive the D.A.R.E. program
- Adopt next-generation 911 and drone technology
Per the campaign site.
About Shane Richard
Shane Richard is chief deputy of the Becker County Sheriff's Office, per his campaign site. He has 27 years in law enforcement, including 11 years as chief deputy under retiring Sheriff Todd Glander, per his campaign site and the Detroit Lakes Tribune.
Luke Sweere
- Invest in ongoing training and expand community partnerships for evolving public-safety challenges
- Uphold integrity, trust and respect as standards across the sheriff's office
- Strengthen ties with local schools and businesses through more transparency and communication
Per the campaign site.
About Luke Sweere
Luke Sweere is a lieutenant with the Becker County Sheriff's Office who has spent 27 years in law enforcement, including six years as an officer and police chief in Frazee, per the Detroit Lakes Tribune. He is running to succeed retiring Sheriff Todd Glander. No campaign website was found as of September 6, 2026.
2 candidates on the November 3, 2026 ballot for Becker County Sheriff, per the Minnesota Secretary of State's candidate filings.
AttorneyBrian W. McDonald
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Brian W. McDonald Incumbent
No published priorities; profile only.
About Brian W. McDonald
Brian W. McDonald appears on the November 3, 2026 ballot for Becker County Attorney, per the Minnesota Secretary of State's candidate filings. No campaign website was found as of September 6, 2026; the Secretary of State's candidate filing is the only verifiable source for Brian W. McDonald.
Brian W. McDonald is the only candidate on the November 3, 2026 ballot for Becker County Attorney, per the Minnesota Secretary of State's candidate filings (Minnesota prints unopposed county races).
Judges
Judge, Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court, Seat 2Michael Leeser
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Michael Leeser
No published priorities; profile only.
About Michael Leeser
Michael Leeser is a judge of the Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court. Appointed to the Clay County District Court September 3, 2024, by Governor Tim Walz, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Previously an assistant Clay County attorney, 2014-2024, and former president of the Clay County Bar Association, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. No campaign website was found as of September 25, 2026.
Michael Leeser is the only name on the ballot for this seat; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected, so the race is on the November 3, 2026 ballot but is not contested. Minnesota's 7th Judicial District covers Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties; judges are elected at large across the whole district, so every voter there, not just voters in one county, votes on this seat. Minnesota judicial elections are nonpartisan and decided by plurality, with no runoff. Listed from the Secretary of State's certified general-election candidate table.
Judge, Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court, Seat 8Matthew E. Engelking
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Matthew E. Engelking
No published priorities; profile only.
About Matthew E. Engelking
Matthew E. Engelking is a judge of the Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court. Appointed to the Stearns County District Court by Governor Tim Walz on July 22, 2019, and elected in 2020, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Previously chief of the juvenile division and senior attorney in the Stearns County Attorney's Office, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. No campaign website was found as of September 25, 2026.
Matthew E. Engelking is the only name on the ballot for this seat; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected, so the race is on the November 3, 2026 ballot but is not contested. Minnesota's 7th Judicial District covers Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties; judges are elected at large across the whole district, so every voter there, not just voters in one county, votes on this seat. Minnesota judicial elections are nonpartisan and decided by plurality, with no runoff. Listed from the Secretary of State's certified general-election candidate table.
Judge, Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court, Seat 9Michelle Winkis Lawson
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Michelle Winkis Lawson
No published priorities; profile only.
About Michelle Winkis Lawson
Michelle Winkis Lawson is a judge of the Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court. Appointed to the Becker County District Court Nov. 14, 2012, by Governor Mark Dayton and elected in 2014 and 2020, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Previously chief assistant and interim Clay County Attorney, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. No campaign website was found as of September 25, 2026.
Michelle Winkis Lawson is the only name on the ballot for this seat; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected, so the race is on the November 3, 2026 ballot but is not contested. Minnesota's 7th Judicial District covers Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties; judges are elected at large across the whole district, so every voter there, not just voters in one county, votes on this seat. Minnesota judicial elections are nonpartisan and decided by plurality, with no runoff. Listed from the Secretary of State's certified general-election candidate table.
Judge, Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court, Seat 11Andrew Pearson
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Andrew Pearson
No published priorities; profile only.
About Andrew Pearson
Andrew Pearson is a judge of the Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court. Appointed to the Stearns County District Court by Governor Mark Dayton on Nov. 1, 2013, and elected in 2014 and 2020, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Previously a Seventh District public defender, 1999-2007, and an attorney at Bradshaw & Bryant, PLLC, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. No campaign website was found as of September 25, 2026.
Andrew Pearson is the only name on the ballot for this seat; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected, so the race is on the November 3, 2026 ballot but is not contested. Minnesota's 7th Judicial District covers Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties; judges are elected at large across the whole district, so every voter there, not just voters in one county, votes on this seat. Minnesota judicial elections are nonpartisan and decided by plurality, with no runoff. Listed from the Secretary of State's certified general-election candidate table.
Judge, Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court, Seat 12Kevin M. Miller
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Kevin M. Miller
No published priorities; profile only.
About Kevin M. Miller
Kevin M. Miller is a judge of the Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court. Appointed to the Otter Tail County District Court May 7, 2018, by Governor Mark Dayton and elected in 2020, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Previously an assistant Becker County attorney and owner of the Miller Law Office, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. No campaign website was found as of September 25, 2026.
Kevin M. Miller is the only name on the ballot for this seat; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected, so the race is on the November 3, 2026 ballot but is not contested. Minnesota's 7th Judicial District covers Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties; judges are elected at large across the whole district, so every voter there, not just voters in one county, votes on this seat. Minnesota judicial elections are nonpartisan and decided by plurality, with no runoff. Listed from the Secretary of State's certified general-election candidate table.
Judge, Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court, Seat 13Michelle Clark
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Michelle Clark
No published priorities; profile only.
About Michelle Clark
Michelle Clark is a judge of the Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court. Appointed to the Douglas County District Court by Governor Mark Dayton on June 21, 2018, and elected in 2020, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Previously an assistant Douglas County attorney, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. No campaign website was found as of September 25, 2026.
Michelle Clark is the only name on the ballot for this seat; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected, so the race is on the November 3, 2026 ballot but is not contested. Minnesota's 7th Judicial District covers Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties; judges are elected at large across the whole district, so every voter there, not just voters in one county, votes on this seat. Minnesota judicial elections are nonpartisan and decided by plurality, with no runoff. Listed from the Secretary of State's certified general-election candidate table.
Judge, Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court, Seat 14Meriel Lester
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Meriel Lester
No published priorities; profile only.
About Meriel Lester
Meriel Lester is a judge of the Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court. Appointed to the Morrison County District Court September 12, 2025, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Previously assistant chief of the domestic violence unit and an assistant attorney in the Stearns County Attorney's Office, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. No campaign website was found as of September 25, 2026.
Meriel Lester is the only name on the ballot for this seat; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected, so the race is on the November 3, 2026 ballot but is not contested. Minnesota's 7th Judicial District covers Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties; judges are elected at large across the whole district, so every voter there, not just voters in one county, votes on this seat. Minnesota judicial elections are nonpartisan and decided by plurality, with no runoff. Listed from the Secretary of State's certified general-election candidate table.
Judge, Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court, Seat 15Ole Tvedten
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Ole Tvedten
No published priorities; profile only.
About Ole Tvedten
Ole Tvedten is a judge of the Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court. Appointed September 9, 2024, by Governor Tim Walz, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Previously criminal division chief and an assistant attorney in the Stearns County Attorney's Office, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. No campaign website was found as of September 25, 2026.
Ole Tvedten is the only name on the ballot for this seat; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected, so the race is on the November 3, 2026 ballot but is not contested. Minnesota's 7th Judicial District covers Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties; judges are elected at large across the whole district, so every voter there, not just voters in one county, votes on this seat. Minnesota judicial elections are nonpartisan and decided by plurality, with no runoff. Listed from the Secretary of State's certified general-election candidate table.
Judge, Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court, Seat 21Robert J. Raupp
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Robert J. Raupp
No published priorities; profile only.
About Robert J. Raupp
Robert J. Raupp is a judge of the Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court. Appointed to the Benton County District Court June 3, 2013, by Governor Mark Dayton and elected in 2014 and 2020, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Previously Benton County Attorney, 2000-2013, and first assistant Benton County attorney, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. No campaign website was found as of September 25, 2026.
Robert J. Raupp is the only name on the ballot for this seat; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected, so the race is on the November 3, 2026 ballot but is not contested. Minnesota's 7th Judicial District covers Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties; judges are elected at large across the whole district, so every voter there, not just voters in one county, votes on this seat. Minnesota judicial elections are nonpartisan and decided by plurality, with no runoff. Listed from the Secretary of State's certified general-election candidate table.
Judge, Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court, Seat 22Doug Clark
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Doug Clark
No published priorities; profile only.
About Doug Clark
Doug Clark is a judge of the Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court. Appointed to the Wadena County District Court by Governor Mark Dayton on Nov. 29, 2018, and elected in 2020, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Previously an attorney and supervising attorney at Mid-Minnesota Legal Assistance, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. No campaign website was found as of September 25, 2026.
Doug Clark is the only name on the ballot for this seat; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected, so the race is on the November 3, 2026 ballot but is not contested. Minnesota's 7th Judicial District covers Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties; judges are elected at large across the whole district, so every voter there, not just voters in one county, votes on this seat. Minnesota judicial elections are nonpartisan and decided by plurality, with no runoff. Listed from the Secretary of State's certified general-election candidate table.
Judge, Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court, Seat 24Karl L. Schmidt
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Karl L. Schmidt
No published priorities; profile only.
About Karl L. Schmidt
Karl L. Schmidt is a judge of the Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court. Appointed to the Benton County District Court on July 29, 2024, by Governor Tim Walz, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Previously Benton County Attorney and senior assistant Benton County attorney, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. No campaign website was found as of September 25, 2026.
Karl L. Schmidt is the only name on the ballot for this seat; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected, so the race is on the November 3, 2026 ballot but is not contested. Minnesota's 7th Judicial District covers Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties; judges are elected at large across the whole district, so every voter there, not just voters in one county, votes on this seat. Minnesota judicial elections are nonpartisan and decided by plurality, with no runoff. Listed from the Secretary of State's certified general-election candidate table.
Judge, Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court, Seat 26Mark J. Herzing
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Mark J. Herzing
No published priorities; profile only.
About Mark J. Herzing
Mark J. Herzing is a judge of the Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court. Appointed to the Mille Lacs County District Court Feb. 1, 2019, by Governor Mark Dayton and elected in 2020, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Previously an assistant Mille Lacs County attorney and a teacher and coach in the Cambridge-Isanti and Milaca school districts, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. No campaign website was found as of September 25, 2026.
Mark J. Herzing is the only name on the ballot for this seat; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected, so the race is on the November 3, 2026 ballot but is not contested. Minnesota's 7th Judicial District covers Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties; judges are elected at large across the whole district, so every voter there, not just voters in one county, votes on this seat. Minnesota judicial elections are nonpartisan and decided by plurality, with no runoff. Listed from the Secretary of State's certified general-election candidate table.
Judge, Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court, Seat 27Tammy L. Merkins
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Tammy L. Merkins
No published priorities; profile only.
About Tammy L. Merkins
Tammy L. Merkins is a judge of the Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court. Appointed to the Clay County District Court by Governor Mark Dayton on June 1, 2018, and elected in 2020, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Previously Becker County Attorney and a partner at Thorwaldsen, Malmstrom, Sorum, Majors & Merkins, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. No campaign website was found as of September 25, 2026.
Tammy L. Merkins is the only name on the ballot for this seat; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected, so the race is on the November 3, 2026 ballot but is not contested. Minnesota's 7th Judicial District covers Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties; judges are elected at large across the whole district, so every voter there, not just voters in one county, votes on this seat. Minnesota judicial elections are nonpartisan and decided by plurality, with no runoff. Listed from the Secretary of State's certified general-election candidate table.
Judge, Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court, Seat 28Antoinette C. Wetzel
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Antoinette C. Wetzel
No published priorities; profile only.
About Antoinette C. Wetzel
Antoinette C. Wetzel is a judge of the Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court. Appointed to the Morrison County District Court July 23, 2018, by Governor Mark Dayton and elected in 2020, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Previously ran the Wetzel Law Firm and served as a qualified neutral mediator and city attorney for Royalton and Little Falls, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. No campaign website was found as of September 25, 2026.
Antoinette C. Wetzel is the only name on the ballot for this seat; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected, so the race is on the November 3, 2026 ballot but is not contested. Minnesota's 7th Judicial District covers Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties; judges are elected at large across the whole district, so every voter there, not just voters in one county, votes on this seat. Minnesota judicial elections are nonpartisan and decided by plurality, with no runoff. Listed from the Secretary of State's certified general-election candidate table.
Judge, Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court, Seat 30Jade M. Rosenfeldt
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Jade M. Rosenfeldt
No published priorities; profile only.
About Jade M. Rosenfeldt
Jade M. Rosenfeldt is a judge of the Minnesota 7th Judicial District Court. Appointed to the Clay County District Court by Governor Tim Walz on November 1, 2019, and elected in 2020, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Previously a shareholder attorney at Vogel Law Firm, 2008-2019, per the Minnesota Judicial Branch. No campaign website was found as of September 25, 2026.
Jade M. Rosenfeldt is the only name on the ballot for this seat; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected, so the race is on the November 3, 2026 ballot but is not contested. Minnesota's 7th Judicial District covers Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd and Wadena counties; judges are elected at large across the whole district, so every voter there, not just voters in one county, votes on this seat. Minnesota judicial elections are nonpartisan and decided by plurality, with no runoff. Listed from the Secretary of State's certified general-election candidate table.
Districts and boards
Soil and Water Supervisor District 1Curtis R. Ballard
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Curtis R. Ballard
No published priorities; profile only.
About Curtis R. Ballard
Curtis R. Ballard appears on the November 3, 2026 ballot for Becker County Soil and Water Supervisor District 1, per the Minnesota Secretary of State's candidate filings. No campaign website was found as of September 6, 2026; the Secretary of State's candidate filing is the only verifiable source for Curtis R. Ballard.
Curtis R. Ballard is the only candidate on the November 3, 2026 ballot for Becker County Soil and Water Supervisor District 1, per the Minnesota Secretary of State's candidate filings (Minnesota prints unopposed county races).
Soil and Water Supervisor District 4Eugene Pavelko
Unopposed: still on your ballot.
Eugene Pavelko
No published priorities; profile only.
About Eugene Pavelko
Eugene Pavelko appears on the November 3, 2026 ballot for Becker County Soil and Water Supervisor District 4, per the Minnesota Secretary of State's candidate filings. No campaign website was found as of September 6, 2026; the Secretary of State's candidate filing is the only verifiable source for Eugene Pavelko.
Eugene Pavelko is the only candidate on the November 3, 2026 ballot for Becker County Soil and Water Supervisor District 4, per the Minnesota Secretary of State's candidate filings (Minnesota prints unopposed county races).
By address
These seats are elected by district; only the district covering your address is on your ballot.
Minnesota Senate District 2Dan R. Rogers (D) · Steve Green (R) · Calvin Larson Jr (UNI)Rogers (D) Make childcare accessible and affordableGreen (R) Supports stronger oversight and independent audits to stop fraud in public programs
Dan R. Rogers Democratic-Farmer-Labor
- Make childcare accessible and affordable
- Support the viability of family farms
- Invest in renewable energy and protect wild spaces including the Boundary Waters
Per the campaign site.
About Dan R. Rogers
Rogers is a science teacher, third-generation farmer and logger from Hubbard County, per the campaign site.
Steve Green Republican Incumbent
- Supports stronger oversight and independent audits to stop fraud in public programs
- Supports lowering taxes on working families, farmers and small businesses
- Supports permitting reforms for Greater Minnesota and reliable, affordable energy
Per the campaign site.
About Steve Green
Steve Green has represented Minnesota Senate District 2 since 2022 and previously served ten years in the Minnesota House representing District 2B, per his campaign site. Green ran Lakeland Greenhouse, his family's business, from 1981 to 2004 and has since worked in construction and carpentry, per his campaign site. Green was born and raised on a farm in Fosston, Minnesota, per his campaign site.
Calvin Larson Jr UNI
No published priorities; profile only.
About Calvin Larson Jr
Calvin Larson Jr is the UNI candidate for Minnesota Senate District 2 on the November 3, 2026 ballot, per the Secretary of State's certified candidate table. No campaign website was found as of September 11, 2026.
Dan R. Rogers (Democratic-Farmer-Labor), Steve Green (Republican), Calvin Larson Jr (UNI) are on the November 3 ballot for Minnesota Senate District 2; Steve Green is the sitting member, per the Minnesota Senate's official member directory (senate.mn). Nominees were chosen at the August 11, 2026 primary (where contested) or qualified directly for the general ballot. The field is the Secretary of State's certified candidate table; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected. This seat is elected by district; only the district covering your address appears on your ballot.
Minnesota Senate District 4Rob Kupec (D) · Austin Peterson (R)Peterson (R) Supporting law enforcement and public safety
Rob Kupec Democratic-Farmer-Labor Incumbent
No published priorities; profile only.
About Rob Kupec
Rob Kupec is the sitting Democratic-Farmer-Labor senator for Minnesota Senate District 4, per the Minnesota Senate's official member directory.
Austin Peterson Republican
- Supporting law enforcement and public safety
- Protecting parents' rights and local decision-making in schools
- Preserving rural Minnesota's way of life
Per the campaign site.
About Austin Peterson
Peterson is a self-made entrepreneur active in small business and real estate ventures with his wife Jeramie, per the campaign site. He grew up near the Grand Forks Air Force Base, currently serves on his local school board, and has volunteered with a nonprofit food shelf, per the campaign site.
Rob Kupec (Democratic-Farmer-Labor), Austin Peterson (Republican) are on the November 3 ballot for Minnesota Senate District 4; Rob Kupec is the sitting member, per the Minnesota Senate's official member directory (senate.mn). Nominees were chosen at the August 11, 2026 primary (where contested) or qualified directly for the general ballot. The field is the Secretary of State's certified candidate table; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected. This seat is elected by district; only the district covering your address appears on your ballot.
Minnesota Senate District 5Mike Wiener (R) · Skylar Fynboh (D)Wiener (R) Opposes local property tax increases that outpace household income growth
Mike Wiener Republican
- Opposes local property tax increases that outpace household income growth
- Supports requiring photo identification to vote
- Wants to limit government mandates on businesses and individuals
Per the campaign site.
About Mike Wiener
Mike Wiener is a business owner who studied sales and marketing at St. Cloud Technical College, according to his official House biography. Paul Utke, per KAXE. He faces a DFL opponent in the November general election.
Skylar Fynboh Democratic-Farmer-Labor
No published priorities; profile only.
About Skylar Fynboh
Skylar Fynboh is the DFL-endorsed candidate for Minnesota Senate District 5, per the Brainerd Dispatch. He grew up between Akeley and Nevis on his family's farm, attended Nevis School and the Perpich Center for the Arts, and has worked as a firefighter and EMT across Greater Minnesota; he currently works in IT with Scamp Trailers while building his own business.
Mike Wiener (Republican), Skylar Fynboh (Democratic-Farmer-Labor) are on the November 3 ballot for Minnesota Senate District 5. Not on the November ballot: Paul J. Utke, the sitting member per the roster. Nominees were chosen at the August 11, 2026 primary (where contested) or qualified directly for the general ballot. The field is the Secretary of State's certified candidate table; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected. This seat is elected by district; only the district covering your address appears on your ballot.
Minnesota House District 2BEmily Thabes (D) · Matt Bliss (R)Thabes (D) Improve childcare access and affordabilityBliss (R) Fiscal responsibility, including directing budget surpluses to benefit the district
Emily Thabes Democratic-Farmer-Labor
- Improve childcare access and affordability
- Oppose corporate consolidation of family farms
- Protect waterways and forests
Per the campaign site.
About Emily Thabes
Thabes has spent her career in nonprofit leadership, public service and education, with five years of local experience bringing together stakeholders across organizational, tribal, county, regional and state lines, per the campaign site.
Matt Bliss Republican Incumbent
- Fiscal responsibility, including directing budget surpluses to benefit the district
- Lowering healthcare costs and increasing healthcare choices
- Investing in roads, small-city infrastructure, and veterans' housing
Per the campaign site.
About Matt Bliss
Matt Bliss is the sitting Republican representative for Minnesota House District 2B, per the Minnesota House of Representatives. His occupation is listed as small business owner, with a background in U.S. Navy communications and electronics, and he was first elected in 2016, per the official member directory.
Emily Thabes (Democratic-Farmer-Labor), Matt Bliss (Republican) are on the November 3 ballot for Minnesota House District 2B; Matt Bliss is the sitting member, per the Minnesota House of Representatives's official member directory (house.mn.gov). Nominees were chosen at the August 11, 2026 primary (where contested) or qualified directly for the general ballot. The field is the Secretary of State's certified candidate table; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected. This seat is elected by district; only the district covering your address appears on your ballot.
Minnesota House District 4BThaddeus Laugisch (D) · Jim Joy (R)
Thaddeus Laugisch Democratic-Farmer-Labor
No published priorities; profile only.
About Thaddeus Laugisch
Thaddeus Laugisch has worked for 16 years as a designer and safety director for Cava Construction, Inc. of Fargo, according to the Detroit Lakes Tribune. He received the DFL endorsement by a unanimous vote of district convention delegates for the 2026 House District 4B race. A previously reported campaign site for him at tl4mnh4b.com no longer displays campaign content and was not linked. No campaign website was found as of September 11, 2026.
Jim Joy Republican Incumbent
No published priorities; profile only.
About Jim Joy
Jim Joy was first elected to the Minnesota House in 2022 and previously served as mayor of Hawley and on the Hawley City Council, according to the Detroit Lakes Tribune. He represents District 4B and faces a rematch against the same DFL challenger from 2024. No campaign website was found as of September 11, 2026.
Thaddeus Laugisch (Democratic-Farmer-Labor), Jim Joy (Republican) are on the November 3 ballot for Minnesota House District 4B; Jim Joy is the sitting member, per the Minnesota House of Representatives's official member directory (house.mn.gov). Nominees were chosen at the August 11, 2026 primary (where contested) or qualified directly for the general ballot. The field is the Secretary of State's certified candidate table; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected. This seat is elected by district; only the district covering your address appears on your ballot.
Minnesota House District 5ADan S. Mitchell (D) · Krista Knudsen (R)Knudsen (R) Supports cutting taxes and reducing government waste
Dan S. Mitchell Democratic-Farmer-Labor
No published priorities; profile only.
About Dan S. Mitchell
Dan Mitchell of rural Pequot Lakes served 20 years in the U.S. Air Force as a computer and communications specialist and now works as a cybersecurity engineer, according to the Park Rapids Enterprise. He also has experience in emergency services work, including EMS and firefighting, per the Detroit Lakes Tribune. No campaign website was found as of September 11, 2026.
Krista Knudsen Republican Incumbent
- Supports cutting taxes and reducing government waste
- Backs ending state education mandates in favor of local control
- Supports law enforcement and reducing crime
Per the campaign site.
About Krista Knudsen
Krista Knudsen co-owns Cowboy's Restaurant in Lake Shore with her husband Kevin, according to her campaign site. She served eight years on the Lake Shore City Council and two years as mayor before her election to the Minnesota House, where she represents District 5A.
Dan S. Mitchell (Democratic-Farmer-Labor), Krista Knudsen (Republican) are on the November 3 ballot for Minnesota House District 5A; Krista Knudsen is the sitting member, per the Minnesota House of Representatives's official member directory (house.mn.gov). Nominees were chosen at the August 11, 2026 primary (where contested) or qualified directly for the general ballot. The field is the Secretary of State's certified candidate table; Minnesota prints unopposed candidates rather than deeming them elected. This seat is elected by district; only the district covering your address appears on your ballot.
Ballot questions
7 local ballot questions from official county, city and school district lists. Countywide questions appear on every ballot in Becker County; city, school district and special-district questions only inside the jurisdiction named. Statewide measures are listed separately.
City Question 1: ADOPTION OF OPTIONAL PLAN, ACity of Ogema · Would adopt Optional Plan A, letting the city council appoint the clerk (and treasurer, where combined) instead of electing them.
Would adopt Optional Plan A, letting the city council appoint the clerk (and treasurer, where combined) instead of electing them.
School District Question 1: Approval of School District Referendum Revenue AuthorizationIndependent School District No. 23 (Frazee-Vergas Public Schools) · Would revoke the school district's existing referendum revenue authorization of its existing per-pupil amount and replace it with a new authorization of $993.83 per pupil for ten years.
Would revoke the school district's existing referendum revenue authorization of its existing per-pupil amount and replace it with a new authorization of $993.83 per pupil for ten years.
School District Question 1: School District Question 1 Revoking Existing Referendum Revenue Authorization; Approving…Independent School District No. 2889 (Lake Park Audubon Public School) · Would revoke the school district's existing referendum revenue authorization of $194.58 per pupil and replace it with a new authorization of $1,683.10 per pupil for ten years.
Would revoke the school district's existing referendum revenue authorization of $194.58 per pupil and replace it with a new authorization of $1,683.10 per pupil for ten years.
School District Question 2: School District Question 2 Approval of School District Referendum Revenue AuthorizationIndependent School District No. 2889 (Lake Park Audubon Public Schools) · Would revoke the school district's existing referendum revenue authorization of its existing per-pupil amount and replace it with a new authorization of $600 per pupil for ten years.
Would revoke the school district's existing referendum revenue authorization of its existing per-pupil amount and replace it with a new authorization of $600 per pupil for ten years.
School District Question 1: Approval of New School District Referendum Revenue AuthorizationIndependent School District No. 549 (Perham-Dent Public Schools) · Would revoke the school district's existing referendum revenue authorization of its existing per-pupil amount and replace it with a new authorization of $1,135 per pupil for ten years.
Would revoke the school district's existing referendum revenue authorization of its existing per-pupil amount and replace it with a new authorization of $1,135 per pupil for ten years.
School District Question 1: Approval of School Building Bonds; New Capital Project Levy AuthorizationIndependent School District No. 553 (New York Mills) · Would authorize the school board to issue up to $22,160,000 in school building bonds and adopt a capital project levy of 2.7102% of net tax capacity to fund school facility and capital projects described in the ballot question.
Would authorize the school board to issue up to $22,160,000 in school building bonds and adopt a capital project levy of 2.7102% of net tax capacity to fund school facility and capital projects described in the ballot question.
School District Question 2: Approval of School Building BondsIndependent School District No. 553 (New York Mills) · Would authorize the school board to issue general obligation school building bonds of up to $2,600,000 for betterment of school sites and facilities including, but not limited to, remodeling and repurposing of the existing media center; replacement of the auditorium sound system,….
Would authorize the school board to issue general obligation school building bonds of up to $2,600,000 for betterment of school sites and facilities including, but not limited to, remodeling and repurposing of the existing media center; replacement of the auditorium sound system,….
Also on your ballot
Statewide racesEvery Minnesota race on this county's ballot.OpenBallot measures1 statewide ballot measureOpenHow to vote in Becker CountyVerify your ballot with the official election office.
Cross-check every race and candidate with the official election office. Official sources are the final word.
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Becker County 2026 election questions
Who is on the ballot in Becker County, Minnesota on November 3, 2026?
Becker County sample ballot 2026: see where the county auditor-treasurer, commissioner and county sheriff candidates stand on the budget and housing. Every candidate profile on this page names the official filing or campaign source it came from.
When is the 2026 general election in Minnesota?
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Registration deadlines, early voting dates and mail ballot rules for Minnesota are listed on the Minnesota election hub. Minnesota election hub →
What ballot questions are on the Becker County ballot?
7 ballot questions: ADOPTION OF OPTIONAL PLAN, A; Approval of School District Referendum Revenue Authorization; School District Question 1 Revoking Existing Referendum Revenue Authorization; Approving…; and more. Each question page explains what a yes vote and a no vote would do.
How do I see my exact Becker County ballot?
Enter your ZIP code in the lookup for the statewide and congressional races on every ballot in the county, or a full street address to add the county, city and district contests for that location. Look up your ballot →
Candidate roster last updated Sep 27, 2026 from official election sources.