Rep Brad Tabke's Shakopee Newsletter: 8/21/2026
Transportation, Lawn Signs, and Election Integrity
Minnesota Election Integrity
I've had some voters share a video recently from debunked potstirrer, James O'Keefe, on the integrity of our elections system here in Minnesota. Specifically the vouching system.
I asked voting expert and defender of Democracy Rep Emma Greenman to talk about voter registration, vouching, and threats to Minnesota's highly-rated system.
The biggest thing this hurts is our election workers.
Key Takeaways:
O'Keefe's stunt inadvertently proves our system works. He was unable to register or vouch for anyone.
Their actions at the polling place were illegal.
Election workers are incredible and these types of videos hurt he integrity of our system by villainizing election workers.
Thank you so much to everyone who works to make our elections happen in Minnesota!
Subscribe and check out other Shakopee Podcast episodes here.
Shakopee City Elections: Mayor
There are three people running for Mayor this Fall here in Shakopee.
I'm extremely proud to support my friend and current Shakopee City Councilmember Angelica Contreras for Mayor.
She is an incredible person, knows everything happening in the City, and will work hard to keep Shakopee moving forward. We've got a lot of great things happening but can be even more.
On the ballot:
Matt Lehman - current Mayor whom I beat for Mayor in 2013 with 89% of the vote
Met Council grant for Shakopee Innovation Hub
Glad to have the Met Council’s support on the Shakopee Innovation Center!
Along with my bill securing $4 million from the State of MN, we are very close to a ground breaking for the first higher ed south of the river in Scott County.
We secured this property for higher ed in Shakopee during my time as Mayor. It has been a long-term goal that I'm proud is nearly ready.
Voting starts in 28 just days
Voting starts in just 28 days!! This year for a variety of reasons we are highly encouraging you to vote early. We have a checkered history with the Trump administration and who knows what shenanigans they will pull between now and election day.
Here are your early voting options for Shakopee residents:
Vote by Mail - Request your ballot, fill it out, and mail it in. Super SUPER easy.
September 18 to October 15 - Vote in person weekdays from 8 am to 4:30 pm at Scott County Public Works, 600 Country Trail East in Jordan (map)
October 16 to November 2 - Vote in person weekdays from 8 to 4:30 at Shakopee City Hall (map)
November 3 - Vote at your local precinct from 7 am to 8 pm
Links to request your absentee ballot, register online, and more at BradTabke.com/VOTE
Remembering Barb Vanek
Barb was instrumental in getting the first dog park (Southbridge) built in Shakopee and was an absolute joy and force to work with. She has left a wonderful legacy here in Shakopee for many generations to enjoy.
Deepest sympathies to her friends and the entire Root family on the passing of Barb Root Vanek.
Question of the week
Voting starts in less than a month. What is your plan to vote this year?
Absentee Ballot by Mail
Early in Person
On Election Day
Click here to add your opinion on the Question of the Week.
Your thoughts: Conclusion from last week
Last week's question results: How do you rank these issues in importance as we head into the 2026 Election?
Here are the top three issues as ranked by you:
ICE
Education
Gun Safety
Lawn Signs Coming Soon
We have about 500 NEW lawn signs going out VERY soon. The last few elections, I sent a postcard to folks who had a sign in previous years asking them to let me know if they didn't want one again.
This year, we are starting our sign list over so you must let me know if you want one. We only have about 100 left, so hurry!
Sign up for a lawn sign -> BradTabke.com/yard-signs
MN Transportation Alliance
Thank you to the Minnesota Transportation Alliance for holding a meeting on legislative policy here in Shakopee at Turtles.
As the current House DFL Transportation Committee Co-Chair, I have big thoughts on Transportation with a focus on safety and accessibility.
View my thoughts on issues affecting Shakopee here.
Other Headlines
Tabke for MN Campaign Calendar
We win with door knocking. And we only won by 14 last time - so help me out. Click for details.
PS: Are you watching Season 4 of Ted Lasso? I love that show so much!!!