Civic Caucus

Civic Caucus provides in-depth dialogue and learning on Minnesota's critical public-policy issues and fosters nonpartisan solutions

"The Civic Caucus is a treasure, one of the few last hot coals from the great fire 
that was Minnesota public-policy debate and discussion." 

— David Dillon, executive chairman, MEYERS

If you care about democracy, then you care about keeping the fabric of civic life strong and vibrant. Having a healthy, productive democracy requires informed citizen involvement, through thoughtful dialogue, asking good questions and probing deeply for answers.

In today's polarized environment, we need civil discourse more than ever. Yet every day, it seems that anger and insults only increase. People like you recognize that not only does this growing polarization create an ugly and divisive environment, it's no way to achieve good public policy and solve Minnesota's pressing problems.

The Civic Caucus is passionate about exploring the state's thorny public-policy issues and seeking creative, nonpartisan solutions. The Civic Caucus is an oasis of reason, a space for learning and exchange of viewpoints, not just from both sides of the aisle, but from all sides. It’s a space where people can discuss issues honestly, without fear or anger, achieving deeper understanding.

“The Civic Caucus is a ray of hope in Minnesota’s civic landscape. It’s committed to bringing into focus important policy problems facing state and local decision-makers and ideas for solutions to those problems.” 

— Former U.S. Senator Dave Durenberger 

Interviews

Our work centers around in-depth live interviews we conduct with subject-matter experts including civic and business leaders, innovators, elected officials, researchers, academics and other thought leaders, to discuss pressing policy challenges and garner their insights and ideas. The interviews are conducted by an evolving panel with volunteers with public policy expertise. 

Since 2005, the Civic Caucus interview panel has conducted nearly 600 interviews. Detailed summaries are distributed via email to our subscribers, seeking their reactions and input, and to more than 300 media outlets statewide. The summary notes of all 600 interviews are available on the Civic Caucus website. The Caucus has also produced more than 20 position reports.   

Our website is also a hub of resources to help inform and inspire interest in Minnesota’s diverse civic history and current landscape. 

"My Minnesota tax-change proposal became relevant and would never have gotten into that shape without those two Civic Caucus interview sessions. Thank you so much for that!" 

— Former Minnesota Commissioner of Revenue John James

Your support

The Civic Caucus is a valuable part of Minnesota’s public-policy landscape. Our work could not happen without help from you and others who understand the importance of exploring issues deeply and thoughtfully — as informed citizen-generalists and representatives of the community.

We ask for your help as we strive to serve Minnesota and its people by Civic Caucus website keeping our civic life strong. THANK YOU for your support and your continued interest in the Civic Caucus.

Join our civic-minded readers

To receive Civic Caucus email updates on civic affairs and public policy in Minnesota, and summaries of current interviews, send your name and email address, with the subject line "Subscribe," to civiccaucus@comcast.net. We never share our email list with others, and you may unsubscribe at any time.