The Boundary Waters were not on the ballot during the 2026 election. That being the case, some races made it feel that way. 

From Grand Marais to Ely, the Paddle & Portage Podcast traveled across the Boundary Waters region Nov. 3. They spoke with candidates who have ties to the BWCA, along with voters in Ely. 

Was the 2026 election a win for the Boundary Waters? The answer is complex, as the podcast duo share in this episode