This year, there are 35 county commissioner races that have primary elections. 26 counties are represented in these races, with several counties having multiple seats up for election.

Candidates who completed the MPR News Voter Guide questionnaire about their past experience and priorities if elected focused on the issues of infrastructure, roads, economic growth and housing costs.

These are the races for the position of County Commissioner:

• Anoka County, District 1

• Anoka County, District 5

• Becker County, District 3

• Becker County, District 4

• Becker County, District 5

• Beltrami County, District 4

• Carlton County, District 5

• Carver County, District 1

• Carver County, District 3

• Cass County, District 3

• Clearwater County, District 2

• Clearwater County, District 4

• Crow Wing County, District 5

• Dakota County, District 5

• Douglas County, District 1

• Faribault County, District 1

• Fillmore County, District 3

• Houston County, District 5

• Jackson County, District 1

• Kittson County, District 2

• Kittson County, District 4

• Martin County, District 1

• Martin County, District 5

• McLeod County, District 3

• Mille Lacs County, District 3

• Morrison County, District 2

• Murray County, District 2

• Norman County, District 1

• Norman County, District 5

• Olmsted County, District 3

• Otter Tail County, District 3

• Otter Tail County, District 5

• Ramsey County, District 7

• Swift County, District 1

• Washington County, District 3

County commissioners oversee the activities and operations of the community and coordinate work with other county departments, such as sheriffs. Their terms are four years. No education or work experience is required for this position, but many draw connections from leadership positions they have held. The Association of Minnesota Counties offers more information on how county governments work.