Vote Emily LeClaire

05/19/2026

Starting today! Now is your chance to begin a journey toward representing your friends and neighbors by running for city office! Having run for office before, I can tell you that win, lose, or draw, it is an experience worth pursuing. Getting a chance to connect with new people in your community over issues you share a passion for is not unique to the world of politics, but running for office gives you an extra reason for forming those bonds and pushes you out of your comfort zone. Considering a run for local office, but not sure where to begin? Please reach out! We can grab some coffee and have a chat about what to expect on the campaign trail! And remember, these local elections often have more impact on our day to day lives than the bigger ones that grab the headlines. We feel the aftermath of local elections more quickly, so regardless of your intent to run, meet the candidates, learn about where they stand on the issues, and VOTE!

📝File for Office!📝
2026 is an election year for City Offices!
- Ward 2 (candidates must live in Ward 2)
-Ward 4 (candidates must live in Ward 4)
-At-Large (1)
-Mayor
➡️Use the Poll finder to determine your ward: pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us

When/Where to File:
📅May 19 - June 2 (5:00 p.m.)
📍City Hall, 501 Laurel St, 3rd Floor
⏰7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

How to file: https://www.brainerdmn.gov/154/Elections-Voting

05/18/2026

I want to take a moment to thank Speaker Johnson, for so bravely drawing attention to the fact that so many Americans are vastly underpaid. After all, if 174,000 a year is not enough for our representatives, this must mean that 35,000-60,000 is not enough for their constituents. Now, of course, I am not suggesting that we all need a base pay of 174,000 a year. After all, I understand, as Speaker Johnson does, the sacrifices made by our Congresswomen and men. For crying out loud, they can't even take part in insider trading, these days. No, I would suggest a base pay of 100,000 for the average citizen. Much more reasonable, don't you think? Of course, we may have to make some cutbacks on congressional compensations in order to achieve this... but I am sure these public servants would be more than willing to skip that trip to Starbucks and their avocado toast if it means the people they represent will be able to afford their livelihood. So, thank you, Speaker Johnson for drawing attention to this issue!

05/16/2026

Today, we celebrate the women and men currently serving in the Armed Forces of the United States military. As we face unique and disquieting circumstances as a nation, I feel it appropriate to highlight the kind of courage required of our bravest heroes. Our service members are called upon to defend our constitution against enemies both foreign and domestic. The courage it takes to answer this call requires discernment in present times as we are engaged in an illegal war, facilitated by the whims of a cowardly leader with no military experience.
My prayers are with all of those serving, and with their loved ones. May God make a way before you, give you wisdom, and keep you safe, and may God drive out the enemies of peace and freedom, wherever they may be. Thank you to each of our fighting men and women across our military branches, for your courage and strength.

05/03/2026

Trina for Congress was endorsed at the endorsement convention yesterday! I encourage everyone to check her campaign out as we approach the primary and general election season. Much work needs to be done to and it starts with getting to know our candidates! Congratulations to Trina and her team, and many thanks to all candidates passionate about fighting for the 8th District!

04/17/2026

A foreign mining company selling our natural resources to other countries after polluting the watershed of the boundary waters. Congrats on the "big win" Pete! Don't worry, we won't forget it.

04/12/2026

Hey Aitkin friends!
Don't forget to vote April 14 on the Referendum!💪

02/03/2026

TONIGHT is Caucus night! Doors open at Riverside Elementary at 5:00 pm. There will be food, activities for kids, and community fellowship. Come meet your neighbors, talk about the issues, and vote on resolutions that you want to see become part of the party platform. This is a DFL event, BUT if you are looking for a place you'll be welcome, where you can share new ideas, and where you can learn more about local grassroots politics, this night is for you! This is not a commitment to the Democrats, it's a step toward making positive changes in your community!

01/25/2026

Thank you for joining us. It is heartwarming to see the many pictures posted of candles lit around our neighborhoods, state, and nation. I didn't get many photos, and my camera isn't the sharpest, but here are our photos from the vigil tonight. May our lights continue to shine for one another in these dark, unprecedented times.

01/25/2026

Crow Wing County DFL is open for those who wish to gather together. (More candles inside)

01/24/2026