Brainerd High School senior, Nick Brambilla — attending his first ever caucus — cited his passion for politics and in particular his involvement in Students for Political Awareness. The 17-year-old who has been involved in politics for the past two years also spoke as a surrogate for U.S. President Barack Obama.

BHS teacher and political activist, Kathy Hegstrom, offered a “Caucus 101” for folks yearning to understand what Tuesday was all about. Offered for the third year at the DFL caucus, the half-hour session provided a packet breaking down the evening’s responsibilities.

Possible GOP rival for Ward surfaces

The GOP caucus at Forestview Middle School, one of four Republican gatherings conducted in Crow Wing County, also saw the surfacing of a potential candidate for the Minnesota House District 12A seat now held by Rep. John Ward, DFL-Brainerd.

Kurt Martin of rural Brainerd said he would be a candidate if his home is within the redrawn district lines.

Martin, who grew up in northeast Brainerd and has owned a business for 27 years, said the inability of middle class families to support themselves without two incomes was a key social issue. It played a role in the divorce rate and the difficulty some students have in their studies, he said. By reducing a tax burden that requires two parents two work the family unit will be preserved, he argued.

Compiled by Staff Writer Jessi Pierce and Associate Editor Mike O’Rourke.