Thinking about running for office? Filing starts soon!
Filing period runs May 19, 2026, through June 2, 2026, by 5 p.m.
If you want to serve your community, now is a good time to think about running for public office. The filing period runs from May 19, 2026, through June 2, 2026, by 5 p.m.
You can file in person at:
Olmsted County Property Records & Licensing
151 4th St SE
Rochester, MN 55904
Candidate filing will be at the Property Records and Licensing office. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Note: Offices will be closed on May 25, 2026 for Memorial Day.
We accept state and judicial affidavits from candidates who live in Olmsted County. Depending on the office, candidates may file with the Minnesota Secretary of State or with Olmsted County.
Filing fees are different for each office. You can see the full list on the Olmsted County website.
Offices up for election in 2026 include:
- United States Senator and U.S. Representative (file with the Secretary of State at the Veterans Services Building, 20 West 12th Street, St. Paul, MN 55155)
- State Senator and State Representative
- State executive offices (Governor/Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, State Auditor, Attorney General)
- Judicial offices, including seats on the Minnesota Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, and District Court
- County offices:
- County Commissioner (Districts 2, 4, 6)
- County Sheriff
- County Attorney
- Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisors
- District 1 (elected at large, but must be a resident of nominating district, which includes Cascade, Rochester)
- District 2 (elected at large, but must be a resident of nominating district, which includes Haverhill, Marion)
- District 3 (elected at large, but must be a resident of nominating district, which includes Dover, Elmira, Eyota, Quincy, Viola)
Candidates may file in person or by mail if the filing is received during the filing period. Special rules apply for candidates who will be out of state during that time.
If you are interested in serving your community, now is a great time to learn more and get ready. See our candidate resources page for more information.