Republican candidates for state office Bjorn Olson, left, and Jeremy Munson addressed the caucus.

Members of the Republican Party (GOP) in Faribault County all gathered for their caucus last Tuesday, Feb. 3.

The caucus was held in a new location, in the Atrium at the Ag Center in Blue Earth. Tables were set up for all of the voting precincts in the county.

There were 71 people who registered at the door to attend the caucus. The caucus was moderated by newly elected chair Brenda Baldwin.

Several of the attendees read letters of greetings from persons who were running for office from the Republican Party. Those candidates included U.S. Congressman Brad Finstad seeking re-election, U.S. Senate candidate Michelle Tofoya and Minnesota governor candidate Mike Lindell.

Two candidates were at the caucus in person; Jeremy Munson who is running for the Minnesota State Senate for District 22, and State Rep. Bjorn Olson who is running for re-election to the Minnesota House from District 22 A.

Both candidates gave an update on themselves, and talked about their campaigns and what they want to get accomplished if they are elected.

The caucus attendees also spent time discussing the issues, and filling out delegate forms for the endorsing convention which will be on Feb. 14 in Mankato.

The group also had a chance to vote in a straw vote for their choice for the Republican candidate for Minnesota governor.

The results were 35 votes for businessman Kendall Qualls, 18 votes for businessman Mike Lindell, nine for House speaker Lisa Demuth, four for Peggy Bennett, three for Scott Jensen, a doctor, one for Brad Kohler and one undecided.

Statewide the results of the straw poll at caucuses was reported to be 33 percent for Demuth and 26 percent for Qualls, with 71 percent of the caucuses reporting.

The caucus was adjourned just after one hour.