Minnesota voters will choose their pick for leading government positions this fall after candidates run in a primary election Aug. 12.

This weekend, delegates from both political parties gave endorsements — marking a significant step in the election process.

Candidates in the races for governor, U.S. Senate, Minnesota attorney general, secretary of state, state auditor and other positions received verification from their respective parties or lost the nominations — actions that are important as they continue on their campaign trails this summer.

Here are the candidates whom delegates chose at the conventions last weekend:

In the race for …

GOVERNOR

For the DFL party, the nominations weren’t surprising, as Gov. Mark Dayton received the gubernatorial endorsement and Sen. Al Franken received the U.S. Senate pick.

On the GOP side, businessman Mike McFadden received the party’s endorsement, and Republican delegates chose current Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Johnson to run against Dayton.

SECRETARY OF STATE

Two new candidates will compete to replace current Secretary of State Mark Ritchie, who will not seek re-election this year. Current state Rep. Steve Simon, DFL-Hopkins, will take on former state legislator Dan Severson for the seat.

STATE AUDITOR

Randy Gilbert, the Republican nominee, will challenge two-term DFL incumbent Rebecca Otto to monitor the spending of $20 billion that the position allocates throughout Minnesota each year.