County canvassing board – Reviewing and certifying election results

There are two remaining election dates for the State of Minnesota in 2026: The state primary on August 11, 2026, and the general election on November 3, 2026. As a reminder, election results become official only after being reviewed and certified by a canvassing board. 

Unofficial results 
On election night, county election officials in Minnesota post preliminary results online. After Election Day, they audit and correct any errors, such as typos or incorrect numbers. 

County canvassing board 
Each county canvassing board must review and approve the results. This board certifies votes for county-specific races, while federal, statewide, and multi-county races are certified by the state canvassing board. A county canvassing board consists of five members: the county auditor, the district court's court administrator, the mayor or chair of the largest municipality, and two county board members who are not seeking re-election. Additionally, municipalities and school districts have their own canvassing boards for local races. 

The county canvass report is sent to the Minnesota Secretary of State, who incorporates it into a statewide report for the State Canvassing Board. 

Olmsted County canvassing board review schedule 
These reviews are open to the public. 

Primary election: 

General election: 

Questions?  

If you have questions about the county canvassing board, please contact the Olmsted County Elections Office at 507-328-7650.