Local Elections Matter More Than You Think

Your city council decides your property taxes, your police budget, the parks your kids play in, and the future of your community — yet most people couldn't name a single member.Tonight, Charles Boakai, a first-time candidate for Champlin City Council Ward 4, joins the panel on the opening day of candidate filing for the November 3 special election. He lays out his vision for public safety, a community center, lower property taxes, and representation in one of Minnesota's fastest-changing suburbs.But the panel doesn't let him off easy. Abe, Peterson, and Yahri press him on the questions every candidate eventually faces: How do you lower taxes while expanding services? What should city government actually prioritize? And where does the money come from?Recorded live July 14, 2026.Amplify. Empower. Elevate.