Minn. Senate rejects bill to move primary to June

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota's primary election is likely to stay in August for the foreseeable future.

The state Senate stymied a bill moving the primary into June on a 35-30 vote Monday. Senators stalled a broader elections bill because a majority was uncomfortable with the primary date shift. The bill heads back to a House-Senate conference committee for further deliberations, which could result in the date change being stripped out.

The idea of moving the primary up has long been debated.

Supporters say voters are more likely to turn out earlier in the year rather than in the heart of summer vacation season.

Opponents argue it would drag out the election season, could cause campaigning to blend too much into the legislation sessions and would weaken the caucus and endorsement process.