No Surprises Here

The DFL will be lead for another two years by Brian Melendez and Donna Cassutt who won re-election at Saturday’s Business Meeting. After an overwhelming win for the DFL in many seats, except the governor’s race, left little doubt that if Melendez and Cassault wanted to stay on they would have no trouble.

Melendez said in an interview that he intends to create a more inclusive coordinated campaign, with stronger grass roots participation. He said, “We are working on building up a farm team for when legislative seats open up.”

The previous chair Mike Erlandson left big shoes for Melendez to fill. Melendez said it was difficult to step into the office and he spent nearly a year meeting people and gaining the trust of DFLers.

Melendez’s first term was a great success in the gains he made. He hopes to hold onto those gains going forward as well as taking Norm Coleman’s senate seat, and making sure Minnesota swings Democratic in the presidential race.