Minnesota Today

Heavy rain brings severe flooding to southern Minnesota

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 21:03:33 +0000

Severe flooding in some parts of southern and southeastern Minnesota has closed several roads and highways in the area.

Flash flooding closed Interstate 90 between Austin and Dexter for several hours this morning. It is now partially reopened, and MnDOT hopes to have the highway fully reopened this evening.

Minnesota farmers face uncertainty as U.S. bails on Canada-Mexico trade pact

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 11:34:00 +0000

The U.S. has decided not to renew a key trade agreement with Canada and Mexico. The decision plunges Minnesota's agriculture industry into uncertainty.

Lawmakers grilled the Minnesota Department of Human Services’ leader Wednesday about the agency’s process for revalidating Medicaid providers.

Oral arguments are set Thursday morning in three lawsuits challenging Minnesota's ban on prediction markets. In May, Minnesota became the first state to outlaw prediction markets, which allow users to bet on everything from sports to current events. Supporters of the ban say the markets are unregulated gambling platforms.

Defendants plead not guilty in ICE protest case; Warning labels for social media will wait

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 21:04:13 +0000

Fourteen people facing federal charges for protesting ICE in Minnesota pleaded not guilty in federal court today.

And Minnesota's attorney general's office won't enforce a new law requiring warning labels for social media sites while a lawsuit plays out.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Committee reviews Department of Human Services' revalidation process after it triggered agency to disenroll providers

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 11:34:00 +0000

More than a dozen people facing conspiracy charges in connection with anti-ICE protests are expected back in Minneapolis federal court Wednesday afternoon.

A Minnesota Senate committee will meet Wednesday to discuss the Department of Human Services' revalidation process. The process triggered the agency to disenroll some providers.

Leaders in three rural Minnesota counties are giving rave reviews to a pilot program aimed at improving emergency medical response time. They are testing out “sprint medics” — paramedics who respond to calls in a pick up truck equipped with advanced life support gear, instead of an ambulance.

Supreme Court rules on birthright citizenship, transgender athlete bans

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 20:24:44 +0000

The Supreme Court's decision to uphold birthright citizenship is welcome news for many Minnesota families. The justices ruled in favor of the longstanding interpretation of the 14th Amendment, granting citizenship to nearly anyone born on U.S. soil.

Also today, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld laws in other states that bar transgender students from participating in school sports. Minnesota officials say the state likely won’t have to change course on rules that allow trans students to join sports that don't match their sex at birth.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Tuesday expected to be another day of scorching and dangerous heat in Minnesota

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:15:00 +0000

Tuesday is expected to be another day of scorching and dangerous heat across much of Minnesota. And Minnesotans are trying to cool off any way they can, from going swimming at their local pools or beaches to staying indoors with iced drinks.

As heat builds across Minnesota this week, animal experts are urging pet owners to watch closely for signs their pets may be overheating. Pets can suffer heat stroke just like people.

Advocates for children with disabilities in Minnesota say they’re concerned about federal changes to the Department of Education. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, which guarantees disabled students access to an equitable public education, remains unchanged.

Minnesota candidates are highlighting tough financial times in their own lives to connect with voters on affordability. In ads and speeches, statewide candidates are reflecting on growing up in poverty. Democrats and Republicans alike have pulled from their early memories to connect on affordability. They’re commit to making changes to bring down costs.

An employee at an adult foster care home in central Minnesota is dead after a stabbing last weekend. On Saturday evening, police responded to a report of an assault at St. Luke's Home in Cold Spring, southwest of St. Cloud. It's operated by Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud and serves adults with developmental disabilities.

Minnesotans seek relief at pools, cooling centers as dangerous heat grips state

Minnesota candidates stress tough phases in own lives to connect with voters on affordability

Minnesota advocates worry about disability rights with move of federal special education office

Cold Spring group home employee stabbed to death

Blue line trains replaced by buses; Storms and heat in Minnesota

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 21:28:36 +0000

Tornado sirens sounded earlier today in parts of central and northern Minnesota as a line of destructive storms swept across the region.

There were no immediate confirmed reports of tornado touchdowns in Minnesota. But the storms produced wind gusts of 75 miles per hour and dropped half-dollar-size hail at Wadena just after 11 a.m. Hundreds of homes and businesses are without power across the state.

Some Minneapolis light rail riders will have to adjust to bus travel this summer. Metro Transit shut down the entire Blue Line and the Minneapolis portion of the green line — starting today.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Heat index off the charts for much of Minnesota. Fosston wants its local hospital back

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 12:37:01 +0000

An extreme heat warning takes effect Monday across much of central and southern Minnesota could see temperatures hit the 90s and heat indices making it feel like 110. And with that high heat, the state's Department of Natural Resources is encouraging people visiting state parks to stay hydrated and seek shady areas.

A judge in Polk County ruled in favor of the rural city of Fosston this past week as it takes on the big hospital system that took over its local hospital. Fosston argues that heath care has worsened since Duluth-based Essentia Health took over operations in 2009.

And a new fire service program developed for young adults is off and running in Bemidji.

Dangerous heat peaks Monday; heat index could reach 110 degrees

Rural Fosston moves forward in its quest to regain control of local hospital from Essentia Health

Bemidji fire brigade helps youth with disabilities ladder up their skills

Early voting begins in Minnesota ahead of this year’s primary election

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 20:55:27 +0000

Early voting began Friday in Minnesota ahead of this year’s primary election. At the Minneapolis Early Vote Center, some voters were among the first to cast their ballots in person. Voters can vote early by mail or in person. More information is available at MNvotes.org.

The Inver Grove Heights City Council voted 3 to 2 Friday to impose a one-year moratorium on data centers in the city. The meeting was filled with residents opposed to a proposed data center project. The project’s developer has warned of possible legal action if the moratorium passed. Residents also presented a petition with more than 700 signatures to the state’s Environmental Quality Board, seeking an environmental assessment of the proposed data center.

The University of Minnesota Board of Regents approved a budget Friday that includes a 3.8 percent tuition increase for the next school year. Regent Robyn Gulley was the only regent to vote against the increase, citing concerns about transparency in the budget process. University President Rebecca Cunningham says the increase will help maintain accessibility and fair compensation for faculty and staff.

A 29-year-old worker died early Thursday at a chicken processing plant in central Minnesota. Police say the employee was pinned under equipment in a loading dock area at the Pilgrim’s Pride plant in Cold Spring. The man’s co-workers removed him, and emergency responders provided medical care, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. Pilgrim’s Pride owner JBS says it is conducting an internal review and cooperating with OSHA.

Dangerous heat remains on track to move into Minnesota starting later this weekend and lasting through much of next week. MPR meteorologist Mandy Thalhuber says heat advisories will likely be issued, with temperatures in the 90s and heat indices reaching triple digits. Monday could bring heat indices of 105 to 108 degrees. Conditions will be cooler along the North Shore, and there’s a chance for thunderstorms Sunday, some of which could be strong in northern Minnesota.

Early voting starts Friday for primary election

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 11:27:00 +0000

Voters can start casting their ballots Friday in the Minnesota primary election. Absentee voting starts 46 days before any election in Minnesota and you can cast an absentee ballot by mail or in person. Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon says voters don't need an excuse to vote absentee. The primary election is Aug. 11.

A government transparency organization has filed a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security to release records connected to Operation Metro Surge this winter. The Forum for Constitutional Rights and Government Accountability requested documents and records back in January and hopes to release the documents to the public so citizens can understand the actions of the federal government.

Beginning next week, Minnesotans will see new pop ups on social media sites warning about potential harms. It's a change lawmakers made in 2025, citing concerns about ill effects for young people.

The Special Olympics USA Games wrap up Friday in the Twin Cities. The closing ceremony will take place at Huntington Bank Stadium and is free and open to the public. Tickets are required and can be claimed online and on site.

Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve will be inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame Saturday. Reeve is the ninth player or coach from the Lynx to be inducted into the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame in Knoxville, Tenn.

Google faces opposition over proposed $2 billion data center near Duluth

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 20:17:18 +0000

Hundreds of people attended an open house hosted by Google Wednesday in Hermantown, just outside Duluth. The company wants to spend up to $2 billion to build a large data center there. The proposal has faced strong opposition from residents, and at least two lawsuits have been filed to block it. The project still needs additional city and state approvals.

The Minneapolis City Council voted Thursday to approve a pair of ordinance changes that would allow the city to legalize bathhouses. Adult bathhouses were historically frequented by gay men in the 1970s and ’80s. They were banned in Minneapolis in 1988 during the AIDS epidemic. The changes allow the city to start the process toward permitting bathhouses and other sex venues in the future.

A state lawmaker will be arraigned Friday on DWI charges stemming from a traffic stop earlier this year. State Rep. Elliott Engen of White Bear Lake was pulled over in March for speeding. According to the criminal complaint, police say Engen had a headlight out, expired registration and a blood alcohol concentration of .13. Engen had been running for state auditor, but ended his campaign.

Minnesota exports fell eight percent in the first quarter compared to the same period in 2025. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development says a decline in sales of mineral fuel and oil to Canada is driving the loss, along with uncertainty tied to federal actions. Excluding mineral fuel and oil exports to Canada, Minnesota exports grew slightly from a year ago.

Parts of Minnesota could see triple-digit highs early next week, as a potentially dangerous heat wave moves into the region. MPR meteorologist Sven Sundgaard says temperatures and humidity will start climbing this weekend. Monday could bring highs in the upper 90s, with heat indices above 105. The heat could linger through next week, with highs near 90 continuing into the Fourth of July weekend.

Minneapolis police often mishandled officer discipline cases, external report finds

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 11:08:00 +0000

The man who killed former DFL House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark faces sentencing next month.

A group of workers at the Amazon warehouse in Shakopee protested outside of the facility Wednesday, the second day of Amazon's Prime Day Sale.

A report released this week found that Minneapolis police often mishandled officer discipline cases.

The Minneapolis City Council is scheduled to vote Thursday on whether to repeal the city’s longstanding ban on adult bathhouses.

Hunger relief nonprofits are feeling the pain from high gas prices. While demand for assistance from food shelves continues to rise across the state, rising costs for nonprofits makes it more difficult for them to meet that demand.

If you use light rail transit in the Twin Cities — prepare for major changes starting next week, with buses replacing trains. That will affect the entirety of Metro Transit’s Blue Line linking downtown Minneapolis to the airport and the Mall of America from Monday through Aug. 19.

Walz seeks federal records after judge tosses DOJ subpoenas targeting Minnesota Democrats

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 20:33:00 +0000

Gov. Tim Walz wants the Trump administration to release records that he says could show he and the state of Minnesota have been targeted for political retribution. Walz filed 16 records requests under the Freedom of Information Act. Earlier this week, a federal judge threw out Justice Department subpoenas for records from the offices of Walz and other Minnesota Democrats, calling them meritless and ethically questionable.

Minnesota hospitality businesses are doing worse than they were last year, according to a new survey from the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. The Minneapolis Fed surveyed 120 hospitality companies about business conditions during the first quarter of 2026. A majority said profits are down compared to last year. Many businesses cited inflation, Minnesota’s new paid family leave policy and increased employee absences as challenges.

A Minneapolis woman who was dragged from her car by federal agents during the immigration surge has filed a civil rights complaint with the Department of Homeland Security. The complaint alleges Aliyah Rahman was assaulted, wrongfully arrested and subjected to inhumane treatment by federal agents. Her attorney says agents violated Rahman’s constitutional rights and disability protections. The complaint calls on DHS to investigate the incident and implement broader policy changes.

A woman charged with assaulting an FBI agent in Minneapolis last year pleaded guilty Tuesday in federal court to a misdemeanor charge. Isabel Lopez was sentenced to time served and a $25 fine. Lopez was among about 100 people who protested what they believed was an immigration raid at a Lake Street restaurant a year ago. Prosecutors agreed to drop the original felony indictment if Lopez pleaded guilty to the misdemeanor charge.

Minnesotans should be prepared for potentially dangerous heat and humidity later this weekend and into next week. MPR meteorologist Sven Sundgaard says what could be the hottest air mass in the region in several years starts to arrive this weekend. Highs could reach the 90s by early next week, with heat indices possibly reaching triple digits. Before then, Minnesota will see a few more days of quiet and mild weather.

Justice Department asks for 2 more weeks before returning Renee Good's car

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:27:00 +0000

A provider trade group is alleging that the Minnesota Department of Human Services is intentionally dismantling a social services program.

Democrats see an opportunity to regain ground in rural parts of Minnesota this election year as farmers cope with high oil prices and input costs.

A northern Minnesota utility broke ground on a nearly billion-dollar transmission line project. It's part of a broader effort to modernize the state's electric grid.

The Justice Department is asking a federal court in Minnesota for two more weeks to return the car seized after Renee Good was fatally shot by an ICE agent in Minneapolis in January.

Target Field concessions workers union, employer expected to bargain Tuesday

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:50:00 +0000

Federal judge tosses DOJ subpoenas targeting Gov. Tim Walz and other Minnesota leaders

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 20:22:49 +0000

A federal judge has tossed out U.S. Justice Department subpoenas targeting Gov. Tim Walz and other state and local leaders. Judge Patrick Schiltz called the subpoenas an “unlawful and unethical use of the grand jury process.” The subpoenas were part of a criminal investigation into whether state officials were obstructing federal immigration enforcement. Schiltz wrote that evidence the subpoenas were issued for unlawful reasons was “overwhelming,” and said the investigation appeared designed to harass political opponents and pressure them into taking federal action.

A new study recommends Minnesota take action to prevent groundwater contaminated with PFAS from spreading in the Twin Cities east metro. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency report recommends pumping groundwater and removing PFAS. The treated water would then be sent to cities for drinking, or returned to the underground aquifer. Decades ago, 3M disposed of chemical waste containing PFAS at several sites in the east metro, where the chemicals leaked into the environment.

About 75,000 spectators are expected to attend the Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota this week. Competition began Monday at the University of Minnesota and the National Sports Center in Blaine. The games bring together more than 3,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities from all 50 states. Events are free to attend, and ESPN will stream some competitions on ESPN Plus.

Minnesota veterinarians fear New World screwworm could make it's way to Minnesota

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 12:05:00 +0000

Human Rights Watch Thursday released a report detailing human rights abuses by the federal government during this winter’s immigration enforcement surge in Minnesota, which the group alleges also violates international human rights treaties.

The report documents what they allege were unlawful arrests, excessive use of force and unhealthy conditions in detention facilities. In an email to MPR News, a Homeland Security spokesperson denied the allegations of human rights violations.

Federal prosecutors Wednesday dismissed charges against another protester accused of assaulting immigration agents. Video evidence continues to contradict sworn statements from Homeland Security officials.

Juneteenth celebrations across Minnesota commemorate the end of slavery in the U.S.

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 12:55:00 +0000

Job numbers; Drought numbers

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 21:19:29 +0000

While we’ve had showers and storms across Minnesota over the past week -- that rain has not been enough to keep drought conditions from expanding.

And Minnesota's job numbers for May are a mixed bag.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Report details human rights abuses by federal government during immigration enforcement surge

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:40:00 +0000

Feeding Our Future founder plans appeal; Minnesota hemp testing program shuts down

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 22:05:07 +0000

Feeding Our Future founder Aimee Bock has filed notice that she plans to appeal her federal conviction and lengthy prison sentence.

And a Minnesota lab shut down its cannabis and hemp testing program this week after running into compliance issues.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Minneapolis City Council committee votes for 6-month pause on new data centers

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 11:33:00 +0000

Feds charge people for impeding federal officers during ICE surge, protests follow

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 20:43:08 +0000

Federal prosecutors today charged fifteen people for allegedly conspiring to impede federal agents in the Twin Cities during the immigration enforcement operation.

It sparked protests in St. Paul today, where protesters at the federal courthouse were met with pepper spray from U.S. marshals.

That story and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

New reward in Wadena missing person case of Carla Beth

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 11:33:00 +0000

Borealis Amtrak route turns 2; Outdoor learning program turns 1

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 22:34:06 +0000

Now in its second year of service, the Borealis Amtrak train has helped grow passenger ridership between St. Paul and Chicago.

And a program that gets more kids learning outside is now a year old.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Bemidji Mayor receives national award for leadership after massive storm

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 11:33:00 +0000

A man who surrendered after a nearly eight-hour standoff with police last week could face charges as soon as Monday. The 31-year-old allegedly shot down a police drone and fired at sheriff's deputies multiple times Tuesday afternoon as they tried to serve an arrest warrant.

The Church of St. Timothy in Blaine is honoring Mark and Melissa Hortman at its 9 a.m. Mass Monday morning. Melissa taught Sunday School at St. Timothy.

A Minneapolis man persistently harassed and later shot by his next-door neighbor filed a lawsuit last week against the city and his home's previous owners. Lawyers for 36-year-old Davis Moturi say in the court filing the October 2024 shooting caused "severe and permanent injury."

Bemidji Mayor Jorge Prince will receive a national award Monday evening for his leadership in the aftermath of a massive storm last June. The storm produced hurricane force winds, downed 9 million trees, and caused around $10 million in damages.

ICE agents detain workers in Bemidji

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 22:22:33 +0000

On Thursday, Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained more than 30 employees of a contractor working at a townhome complex in Bemidji.

And Minneapolis-based Sleep Number announced today that it has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy -- and that it has entered an agreement to combine with a Canadian mattress retailer.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Federal judge denies request from journalists Don Lemon and Georgia Fort to release grand jury transcripts

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 12:11:00 +0000

A sentencing date is pending for Vance Boelter after he pleaded guilty Thursday to federal charges stemming from last June’s attacks on Minnesota lawmakers and their families. That includes the killings of former DFL House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, as well the attack on DFL state Senator John Hoffman, his wife, Yvette, and their daughter, Hope. Under terms of the plea deal, Boelter will spend the rest of his life in prison.

More than a hundred men serving time at Rush City prison are boycotting the canteen to protest prison conditions.

A federal judge has denied a request from independent journalists Don Lemon and Georgia Fort to release grand jury transcripts in their case.

Target Field food and beverage workers announced they will strike on June 22 — during a game between the Twins and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Boelter pleads guilty

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 20:53:59 +0000

Vance Boelter today admitted killing a top DFL lawmaker and her husband during an early morning shooting rampage last year. Boelter’s plea means federal prosecutors will not seek the death penalty.

And the Minneapolis City Council voted today to waive a special tax assessment for property owners in George Floyd Square.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Minnesota lawmakers set out to memorialize a peer lost to political violence, prevent future threats

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:24:00 +0000

Minneapolis city officials say a new report on the economic effects of the federal immigration enforcement surge can help provide a roadmap for how to direct relief efforts. The city estimates the surge caused nearly $700 million in economic harm, most of that due to lost wages and business revenue.

Additionally, the Minneapolis City Council is set to take up two measures this morning related to George Floyd Square. One is whether to approve a special tax assessment on property owners at the square to help cover the cost of a street reconstruction project that just started.

Minnesota lawmakers want to memorialize a peer lost to political violence and prevent future threats. Almost one year ago, a gunman shot and killed House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, in their home. The gunman also shot Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, who both survived. The shootings rocked the state. And in the months since, lawmakers sought to remember the Hortmans by renaming a highway, bike trail and Capitol garden.

The man charged with killing Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark is expected to plead guilty this morning.

A Feeding Our Future defendant who fled to Kenya is back in Minnesota to face charges after surrendering to authorities.

Minneapolis estimates Operation Metro Surge cost the city $700 million

Minneapolis City Council to weigh two measures related to George Floyd Square

Steps to honor Hortman, prevent future tragedies take root in year since her assassination

Boelter expected to plead guilty in lawmaker attacks

Cost of ICE surge in Minneapolis; Train derailed in western Minnesota

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 21:09:41 +0000

The city of Minneapolis now estimates that the federal immigration enforcement surge caused nearly $700 million in economic damage.

And clean-up is underway after about 20 rail cars were knocked off the tracks in western Minnesota early this morning as severe storms swept through.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Severe storms cause power outages across Minnesota. ICE surge costs Minneapolis $700M

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 11:50:00 +0000

A line of severe storms raced across Minnesota overnight, bringing wind gusts of more than 80 mph and knocking out power to thousands of homes and businesses. More severe storms are possible Wednesday afternoon and evening, especially across eastern Minnesota and into western Wisconsin.

City leaders in Minneapolis will release an updated impact assessment for Operation Metro Surge on Wednesday. The city now estimates that the federal immigration surge from December to April had a $700 million impact on the city, residents and businesses.

And the Department of Justice is not seeking the death penalty for the man accused of killing former DFL Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark.

Severe storms knock out power to thousands across Minnesota

Minneapolis estimates Operation Metro Surge cost the city $700 million

Death penalty off the table for alleged Hortman killer

Air quality expected to be poor throughout central Minnesota. Fargo votes for city leaders

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 10:59:08 +0000

Air quality in the Twin Cities and much of central Minnesota may reach unhealthy levels this afternoon and evening. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued an air quality alert from noon to 9 p.m. for the Twin Cities metro area extending northwest to St. Cloud, Sauk Centre and Little Falls.

Like other alerts the past couple weeks, the concern is for ground-level ozone that forms on warm, dry days when sunshine reacts with pollutants in the air. Conditions should improve after sunset.

Fargo voters are choosing a new mayor and two other city commissioners Tuesday. And the city is changing up the method of voting after North Dakota lawmakers banned approval voting last year.

And DFL governor candidate Amy Klobuchar is out with a proposal aimed at addressing Minnesota's housing shortage. Klobuchar says the state should work with cities and counties to lift requirements that can add time and project expenses. The plan would also create incentives for communities that build more multi-family housing.

Lawmakers scrapped Fargo’s novel voting system. Tuesday's mayoral election goes back to basics

Annunciation family condemns Roblox over school shooting game

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 20:44:00 +0000

An Annunciation family is condemning the gaming platform Roblox for a game modeled after the 2012 massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Leah and Harry Kaiser said it’s “heartbreaking and unacceptable” to see tragedies like the one that critically injured their daughter recreated on the platform.

They sent a letter to Roblox calling for stronger safeguards against violent content. The company said on social media the simulation was removed in early February.

The Minnesota Court of Appeals has ruled the city of Faribault erred when it decided a proposed data center did not require a more in-depth environmental study. The nonprofit Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy appealed the decision, arguing the city did not have enough information about the project’s potential air and noise pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

A new congressional report dissects internal problems that could have allowed fraud to fester in Minnesota-run programs. The 200-page report by the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform retraces fraud in nutrition and Medicaid programs and what was done about it.

It’s shaping up to be a hot, humid and stormy few days across Minnesota, with chances for severe weather. After scattered storms through tonight, highs are expected to climb into the upper 80s to low 90s across much of the state Tuesday and Wednesday.

Investigators say Birch Bay Fire was started by a chainsaw

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 11:58:00 +0000

Feds propose housing ICE detainees in western Minnesota private prison

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:10:04 +0000

The Department of Homeland Security has posted a proposed contract for Immigration and Customs Enforcement to use a private prison facility in western Minnesota to hold up to 1,600 immigrant detainees. That’s according to a contract proposal issued Thursday that seeks to use Prairie Correctional Facility in Appleton, owned by CoreCivic.

Gov. Tim Walz has requested the extradition of a Texas ICE agent to Minnesota to face assault charges related to the shooting of a man in Minneapolis during the federal enforcement surge.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Immigration hearings continue at the Whipple Federal Building despite end of surge

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 11:31:00 +0000

Minnesota lawmakers failed to add protections to an obscure discount drug program this year, amid complaints from the pharmaceutical industry that some large hospitals abuse the so called 340B program.

Republican-endorsed governor candidate Kendall Qualls says the campaign focus this year shouldn't be on President Donald Trump. Qualls is one of several candidates in a GOP primary race to determine the party nominee.

An ICE detainee from Burnsville with serious health problems was released Wednesday. Andrea Pedro-Francisco is a twenty three year old asylum seeker who has lived in Burnsville with her family since 2019. She was detained by ICE in February and sent to Texas just before a planned surgery to remove an ovarian cyst.

Birch Bay wildfire 30% contained; DHS disenrolls 3,400 Medicaid providers

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 20:30:06 +0000

Forest Service officials say the Birch Bay wildfire burning a few miles northwest of Ely is now 30 percent contained.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services has disenrolled sixty percent of providers from 14 high-risk Medicaid programs.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

The attorney general of Massachusetts alleges Twin Cities-based UnitedHealthcare defrauded state's Medicaid program

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 11:31:00 +0000

Churches may close in St. Cloud; MPD interim chief announced

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 20:52:27 +0000

The Catholic Diocese of St. Cloud is proposing to reduce its number of parishes and close some churches.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey announced yesterday that Bill Peterson will be interim police chief while the city conducts a national search for a new leader.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Defendant charged in killing of Sam Nordquist pleaded guilty to two lesser charges

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 11:43:00 +0000

Demuth continuing run for governor despite no party endorsement; Frey names interim MPD chief

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 20:22:36 +0000

House Speaker Lisa Demuth says she opted to enter the GOP primary race for governor after party leaders deflated the endorsement in that contest.

And Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has named an interim police chief as the city looks to replace Brian O'Hara, who resigned last week.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Thousands of legitimate providers were disenrolled from high-risk Medicaid programs, says disability service provider organizations

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 11:43:00 +0000

Key endorsements made in weekend conventions for Minnesota’s major political parties

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 11:43:00 +0000

DFL and Republican conventions take place across the state Friday as candidates vie for endorsements

Fri, 29 May 2026 11:43:00 +0000

Republicans gather in Duluth Friday to begin winnowing their field of U.S. Senate candidates. An endorsement contest could bring some to drop out of the race, but an August primary will determine the nominee for the general election.

For Democrats, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan heads into this weekend's DFL state convention with a victory already in hand. Her opponent in the DFL Senate race, U.S. Rep Angie Craig, decided Wednesday to skip the convention, with the delegate math showing a strong advantage there for Flanagan. The two will instead battle it out in the August primary.

Four Twin Cities leaders will accept the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation Profile in Courage Award this Sunday on behalf of the people of the Twin Cities.

Minneapolis City Council members question mayor's handling of police chief investigation

Thu, 28 May 2026 21:10:45 +0000

Some members of the Minneapolis City Council are questioning Mayor Jacob Frey's handling of investigations into former police Chief Brian O’Hara, who resigned on Tuesday.

Attorneys for independent journalist Don Lemon are renewing their push for access to grand jury transcripts in the case of Lemon and 37 others charged in connection with a protest at a St. Paul church in January.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Fond du Lac Band is closer to getting land back from the University of Minnesota

Thu, 28 May 2026 11:55:00 +0000

Following Minneapolis police Chief Brian O'Hara's resignation Tuesday, Mayor Jacob Frey appointed assistant Minneapolis police Chief Katie Blackwell — who has been at the department for over 25 years — as acting police chief effective immediately.

Minnesota is celebrating the completion of a major milestone in the ongoing cleanup of the St. Louis River. The river forms the headwaters of Lake Superior. There's been a major effort to clean up the river since 1987.

The Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa is one step closer to getting land back from the University of Minnesota. Gov. Tim Walz signed legislation paving the way for the university to return the land on which its Cloquet Forestry Center is situated.

Traffic is now down to a single lane in each direction through fall along two stretches of Interstate 94 in central Minnesota. MnDOT says crews are repairing and resurfacing two bridges along eastbound I-94 between Sauk Centre and Melrose.

Craig goes straight to Senate primary; The search for a new Minneapolis police chief

Wed, 27 May 2026 20:38:44 +0000

U.S. Rep. Angie Craig says she'll skip the DFL convention in Rochester and head straight to a Senate primary.

Minneapolis city leaders are searching for a new police chief after Brian O'Hara resigned Tuesday.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Minneapolis police Chief Brian O'Hara resigns after allegations he interfered with investigation

Wed, 27 May 2026 11:28:00 +0000

Minneapolis police chief Brian O'Hara resigned Tuesday amid allegations that he interfered with an internal investigation. The investigation explored allegations that the chief had sexual relationships with city employees. According to investigators, there was sufficient evidence that O’Hara intentionally deleted data on his city-issued cell phone that was related to the investigation.

At the DFL convention this weekend, the endorsement that will garner the most attention is in the U.S. Senate race. Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan and U.S. Rep. Angie Craig are seeking their party's endorsement.

The temporary closure of one of the state’s few marijuana testing labs could spell trouble for the budding industry. Last week, Minnesota's Office of Cannabis Management froze testing at Legend Technical Services for failing to meet security and testing requirements. State law requires testing, but Minnesota already faces a backlog with demand spiking.

Court of Appeals gun trigger decision; Minnesota gas prices down slightly

Tue, 26 May 2026 20:15:33 +0000

The Minnesota Court of Appeals won't reinstate a law to ban certain gun trigger mechanisms.

And gas prices were down slightly today after hitting a four-year Memorial Day high yesterday.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Speeding drivers targeted in statewide summer traffic enforcement campaign

Tue, 26 May 2026 11:28:00 +0000

A statewide summer traffic enforcement campaign is now underway with officers, deputies and troopers across Minnesota placing extra attention on speeding drivers. The campaign is also targeting distracted and impaired driving, as well as seat belt use.

Minnesota is commissioning a study on nuclear energy after state lawmakers recently approved funding.

Minnesota lawmakers approved $3 million to help colleges fight student enrollment fraud. College administrators call the fake enrollments “ghost students.”

The head of the Native American Community Clinic says a new affordable housing and health center project currently under construction in south Minneapolis is designed as an indigenous space.

Players of the unique Hmong sport tuj lub hope more people give the time-honored sport a spin.

Attorney for ICE agent charged in road rage incident says 'there's more to the story'

Fri, 22 May 2026 11:28:00 +0000

An attorney for an ICE agent charged in a February road rage incident during “Operation Metro Surge” says there's more to the story than what's shown in a widely circulated video. Prosecutors allege Gregory Morgan pointed a handgun at another vehicle on Highway 62 after a traffic dispute. He faces two felony counts of second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon. He's set to make a first appearance in court Friday.

The founder of a nonprofit that’s become synonymous with fraud in Minnesota was sentenced Thursday to nearly 42 years in prison. Aimee Bock, who founded and led Feeding Our Future, was also ordered to pay $243 million dollars in restitution.

Federal law enforcement officials say they will continue to investigate allegations of fraud in the state of Minnesota and in other states. During a press conference Thursday, officials announced charges against 15 people who allegedly stole $90 million in taxpayer dollars.

A federal judge has set a July 1 hearing on a possible injunction to stop Minnesota's ban on prediction markets. The new law bans the organization or advertising of prediction markets like Kalshi or Polymarket in Minnesota.

For the first time in two years, visitors to a state park in northern Minnesota can once again travel nearly a half-mile underground into a historic mine. Crews have been working nonstop since then to get it reopened.

The CBS News radio division is calling it quits Friday. WCCO in Minneapolis switched to being an ABC News affiliate on Thursday.

Go deeper with the latest edition of the Minnesota Today newsletter.

Feds say 15 charged with bilking Medicaid programs in Minnesota

Aimee Bock sentenced to 500 months in Feeding Our Future fraud case

Following 2-year hiatus, Soudan underground mine tours to resume on the Iron Range

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Feeding Our Future founder sentenced; Feds announce charges in fraud allegations

Thu, 21 May 2026 21:35:47 +0000

Feeding Our Future founder Aimee Bock has been sentenced to 500 months in prison -- that’s nearly 42 years -- for orchestrating what investigators say was the nation’s largest COVID-era fraud scheme. Bock was also ordered to pay $243 million in restitution.

And federal authorities announced today they’ve filed criminal charges against 15 Minnesotans accused of stealing millions from federal programs.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

State park camping and lodging units nearly fully booked for Memorial Day weekend

Thu, 21 May 2026 11:30:00 +0000

DNR identifies starting location, people of interest connected to Flanders Fire

Wed, 20 May 2026 21:33:47 +0000

The Flanders wildfire in Crow Wing County is now 95 percent contained. Authorities say they believe it was sparked by a campfire. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources said it has identified people of interest in connection with the case.

Good financial news for Target today -- the Minneapolis-based retailer saw better-than-expected sales in the first quarter.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Red Lake Nation tribal band members vote for leadership positions

Wed, 20 May 2026 11:12:00 +0000

State lawmakers are giving counties and tribal communities $90 million to upgrade the old and inefficient technology they use to administer SNAP and Medicaid benefits.

Immigration advocates in Minnesota say fear, policy changes and longer processing delays are discouraging some eligible immigrants from applying for U.S. citizenship. Organizations that help immigrants apply for citizenship say applications have dropped over the past year.

Red Lake Nation tribal band members will cast votes Wednesday in an election for leadership positions, including tribal chairman. Tribal secretary and district representative positions are also up for a vote this year. The tribal nation holds elections every four years. Results are expected to be announced Thursday.

Flanders fire evacuation order lifted, campfire possible culprit

Tue, 19 May 2026 20:38:27 +0000

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says it has located the origin of the Flanders Fire near the north shore of Flanders Lake. The fire started early Saturday afternoon and grew to more than 1,600 acres. Crow Wing County Sheriff Eric Klang says individuals appear to have started a campfire near Flanders Lake on Saturday or the night before.

Minnesota is being sued by a federal agency over a new state law banning prediction markets.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Flanders Fire is 60 percent contained. Stewart Trail Fire is now 100 percent contained

Tue, 19 May 2026 11:12:00 +0000

Minnesota prosecutors on Monday charged an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent with assault in connection with the January shooting of a Venezuelan man.

The Minneapolis City Council will revisit a proposal this week for a new emergency responder training center.

Cooler temperatures and higher humidity have helped fire crews working to contain two wildfires burning in northern Minnesota. Authorities say the Flanders Fire in Crow Wing County was 60 percent contained as of Monday evening. Crews were also fighting the Stewart Trail Fire along the North Shore near Two Harbors. That fire has now been contained.

Hundreds of millions of dollars will go to HCMC, the state’s busiest Level 1 trauma center and teaching hospital, after this year’s legislative session.

Minnesota prosecutors announce charges against ICE agent in January shooting

Mon, 18 May 2026 21:00:28 +0000

Minnesota prosecutors have charged an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent in the January shooting of a Venezuelan man in north Minneapolis. The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office says ICE agent Christian Castro fired through the front door of a duplex, striking Julio Sosa-Celis in the leg.

Authorities say a downed power line sparked the wildfire that's burning on the North Shore of Lake Superior and has destroyed more than 30 buildings.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Crews begin to get a handle on the Stewart Trail Fire burning north of Two Harbors

Mon, 18 May 2026 11:40:00 +0000

Gas prices spike due to refinery issues; Legislative update

Fri, 15 May 2026 22:43:01 +0000

An oil analyst says refining issues in the nearby Great Lakes region has contributed to a gas price spike in Minnesota. The platform GasBuddy says the average price in the state as of today is about $4.45 a gallon, up nearly 30 cents from earlier this week.

Minnesota Democratic lawmakers held a sit-in overnight at the Capitol.... demanding that Republican House Speaker Lisa Demuth let a gun violence prevention bill face a House vote.

Stretch of Interstate 94 in Minneapolis and St. Paul closed all weekend

Fri, 15 May 2026 11:40:00 +0000

Legislators now have a financial framework from which to hammer out bills. An end-of-session deadline arrives this weekend given that lawmakers can’t pass bills after Sunday. Leaders agreed to help HCMC and hospitals around the state, give property owners tax relief and put more money into infrastructure projects. The deal also increases funding for security concerns as well as anti-fraud measures.

There are still many details about the signed agreement that are not yet known, and a small window left for lawmakers to get bills ready for votes.

Gas prices spike in Minnesota; Gun control advocates speak out

Thu, 14 May 2026 22:31:49 +0000

Gas prices jumped sharply at many Minnesota stations yesterday -- and that’s reflected in a spike in the statewide average price today.

And advocates delivered a foot-high stack of petitions to Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth today demanding she let a gun control bill face a vote.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Lawmakers craft financial framework to wrap up legislative session

Thu, 14 May 2026 11:40:00 +0000

There are still many details about the signed agreement that are not yet known, and a small window left for lawmakers to get bills ready for votes.

Travel bans and fears of detainment are causing challenges for international students

Wed, 13 May 2026 21:02:53 +0000

Travel bans, visa restrictions and fears of being arrested or detained are presenting challenges for students from other countries wanting to come to the U.S. to study here.

And lawmakers have come together on a deal to dedicate $165 million to housing programs.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

New legislation could change how social media looks on young Minnesotans' devices

Wed, 13 May 2026 11:57:00 +0000

How social media looks on the devices of young Minnesotans could be in for a major change. The Minnesota House voted overwhelmingly Tuesday to require social media age verification and less addictive interfaces for kids.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice has finished its investigation of a Superior police officer shooting and killing a 42-year old man in April. It's one of two police shootings in Superior in the past two months.

A ban on prediction markets passed both the Minnesota Senate and House Tuesday, and now heads to the governor's desk.

Minnesota Frost will play Game 5 of PWHL semifinals Tuesday after Monday's game was postponed

Mon, 11 May 2026 11:42:00 +0000

Hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship does not pose public threat, director of U of M Center for Infectious Disease Research says

Mon, 11 May 2026 11:40:00 +0000

The director of the University of Minnesota’s Center for Infectious Disease Research said Sunday the hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship does not pose a serious public threat.

The Fargo City Commission will likely approve a new police chief Monday night. Interim Chief Travis Stefonowicz is the sole finalist in the search for Fargo’s Chief of Police. Stefonowicz would be replacing Dave Zibolski, who retired last month and drew criticism over the department’s use of artificial intelligence to identify and arrest a women for a crime even though she said she'd never been to Fargo.

Minnesota is one of several states debating a proposal to allow for "plug-in solar" or "balcony solar." The bill allows people to quickly connect small scale solar systems to their homes or apartments.

Klobuchar on run for governor; New details in plane crash

Fri, 08 May 2026 21:20:26 +0000

U.S. Senator and past presidential candidate Amy Klobuchar says she wouldn't have run for Minnesota governor if she was contemplating another presidential run.

And a preliminary report from federal investigators says a pilot radioed “abort” and started turning shortly after takeoff from Crystal Airport last month... before the plane crashed, killing both people aboard.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Stretch of Highway 12 in western Twin Cities metro will be closed this weekend

Fri, 08 May 2026 11:40:00 +0000

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has nominated Police Chief Brian O'Hara to serve a second term. Now the city council gets a chance to weigh in.

A proposal to create an independent watchdog over state government is nearing a signature from the governor. The proposal to create a new Office of the Inspector General overwhelmingly passed the House.

White Earth Nation leadership shared program updates and priorities for the coming year at the annual State of the Nation Thursday in Mahnomen.

A stretch of Highway 12 in the western Twin Cities will be closed again this weekend. That closure runs between Interstate 494 in Minnetonka and Central Avenue in Wayzata. It begins at 10 p.m. Friday and runs through 5 a.m. Monday. Traffic will be detoured to Highway 55.

Air quality issues likely this summer due to drought, high ozone levels

Thu, 07 May 2026 20:28:32 +0000

Minnesota officials are forecasting air quality issues this summer due to wildfire smoke and high ozone levels. Meteorologists with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency say drought conditions are increasing the risk of wildfires and they're expecting 12 to 16 days of smoky air this summer.

And a Minneapolis man pleaded guilty this morning to spraying vinegar on Congresswoman Ilhan Omar earlier this year.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Border Czar Tom Homan says mistakes were made in Minneapolis, mass deportations will continue

Thu, 07 May 2026 11:33:00 +0000

The Minneapolis City Council is expected to cast a final vote on a bill that would ban assault weapons in the city.

A man accused of spraying vinegar on U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar is due back in federal court Thursday morning where he’s expected to enter a guilty plea.

One of a series of bills to curb fraud in state programs stalled in a Minnesota House committee Tuesday. The bill aims to stop fraudsters from getting more state money from another agency. Without Republican support, it got bogged down in a tie vote.

Border Czar Tom Homan says mistakes were made in Minneapolis earlier this year during ICE's enforcement on immigration. Homan says the public will continue to see mass deportations, especially in sanctuary cities.

Minnesota lead pipe replacement

Wed, 06 May 2026 21:20:49 +0000

A Minnesota man who spent years in prison before his conviction for first-degree murder was vacated in 2023 may now receive several million dollars from the state. A judge found that faulty witness testimony was used in convicting Marvin Haynes for the 2004 killing of Harry Randy Sherer in Minneapolis.

And local leaders and labor unions are urging Minnesota lawmakers to prioritize lead pipe replacement this year.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Prosecutors dismiss a third of cases against protesters accused of assaulting federal agents during ICE surge

Wed, 06 May 2026 11:47:00 +0000

Hermantown data center update; DHS commissioner on medical leave

Tue, 05 May 2026 22:14:05 +0000

The Hermantown City Council voted last night to table a vote on a massive Google data center. The tech giant wants to build a nearly $2 billion complex in the city near Duluth.

And Minnesota's newly named temporary commissioner for the Department of Human Services is out on medical leave for at least the next month.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey to give State of the City address Tuesday

Tue, 05 May 2026 12:08:00 +0000

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey will give his annual State of the City address Tuesday. It will be his first State of the City gathering since the federal immigration enforcement surge earlier this year.

It is difficult for the courts to claw back public money stolen through fraud. So a group of Minnesota legislators are trying a new approach to create a tax on fraud.

The U.S. Justice Department says it’s suing the state of Minnesota to stop a lawsuit that the state filed against the oil industry over climate change. At issue is a 2020 lawsuit filed by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison alleging ExxonMobil, Koch Industries and the American Petroleum Institute deceived and defrauded Minnesotans about climate change. The suit is still making its way through the courts.

Legislative deadline nears; pardons board grants emergency relief to man facing deportation

Mon, 04 May 2026 22:50:00 +0000

The Legislature has two more weeks to complete its session work, and Capitol leaders are still in search of agreements on key issues. Gov. Tim Walz said he's hopeful for something on guns and school safety.

The Minnesota Board of Pardons held an emergency meeting Monday to grant clemency to a man facing deportation to Laos because of a past conviction.

At "Ricky" Chandee was convicted of second-degree assault more than 30 years ago. He received a deportation order after serving his sentence. Chandee is among several immigrants who have asked the state to pardon convictions that disrupted their status in the U.S.

Also Monday, a federal judge heard arguments in a lawsuit over federal agents’ treatment of protesters and observers during increased federal immigration enforcement in Minnesota.

Expect traffic delays along U.S. Highway 10 east of Wadena starting Monday

Mon, 04 May 2026 11:38:00 +0000

The number of people canceling or not using their permit to visit the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness rose again in 2025. The U.S. Forest Service says more than 40 percent of permits for May 1 through September 30 last year were never used.

Depleted by injury, the Minnesota Timberwolves saw other players step up on Thursday to lift them to a first-round playoff series win over Denver. Now the battered Wolves face another tough test against San Antonio in the Western Conference semifinals starting Monday night.

Expect traffic delays on a busy central Minnesota highway over the next couple of months as a detour goes into effect starting Monday. That detour is along U.S. Highway 10 just east of Wadena. MnDOT says it's to allow crews to replace a culvert under the highway. It'll be a short detour to start, but that will be extended to a much longer route in early June as crews replace a second culvert. The detour will remain in place until early to mid-July.

Frey vetoes ordinances; Gas prices rise

Fri, 01 May 2026 21:48:50 +0000

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey vetoed a pair of ordinances yesterday.

The average price of gas in Minnesota has now climbed above $4 a gallon amid the ongoing war in Iran and uncertainty about the Strait of Hormuz.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Kelly Bleyer. Music by Gary Meister.

Feeding Our Future judge limits convicted ringleader’s access to case documents

Fri, 01 May 2026 12:40:00 +0000

A bill to make Minnesota’s bridges safer passed the House unanimously Thursday. The measure directs the Minnesota Department of Transportation to make a statewide plan to identify bridges with high suicide rates and incorporate suicide prevention in new bridges.

The judge presiding over the Feeding Our Future case is limiting convicted ringleader Aimee Bock’s access to confidential case documents after she allegedly directed her sons to send the files to reporters and elected officials.

As gas prices climb, drivers want to fill up at the gas station offering the cheapest gas. One south Minneapolis independent gas station with cheaper prices says it's seeing heavier traffic since the start of the war in Iran.

MPR News investigation into MPD task force; Minnesota unemployment rate

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 20:44:27 +0000

A document obtained by MPR News shows that dozens of Minneapolis police officers worked with a previously undisclosed Homeland Security Task Force last year, which city leaders say is not involved in immigration enforcement.

And Minnesota's unemployment rate stayed steady last month. The state added 800 jobs on a seasonally adjusted basis between February and March, but fewer people were looking for jobs.

Adam Fravel's murder conviction upheld by state Supreme Court

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:40:00 +0000

The Minnesota Supreme Court has upheld the first-degree premeditated murder conviction of Adam Fravel. Fravel was convicted in 2024 and sentenced to life in prison for killing Madeline Kingsbury of Winona. Kingsbury, who had two young children with Fravel, disappeared in 2023. Her body was found after a two-month search.

Three members of a Prior Lake family are facing federal charges for allegedly attacking a conservative influencer outside the Whipple federal building earlier this month.

A bill to help the financially troubled HCMC hospital and fill gaps left by federal cuts in Medicaid and food assistance passed the state Senate Wednesday afternoon.

And a citizens group is suing the northeastern Minnesota city of Hermantown to block a proposed Google data center.

Go deeper with the latest edition of the Minnesota Today newsletter.

From 2024: Adam Fravel sentenced to life in prison for murdering Madeline Kingsbury

Prior Lake family charged with assaulting conservative influencer at ICE protest

Citizens' group files lawsuit to block Google's proposed Hermantown data center

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Minnesota looks to add more fraud investigators

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 21:44:58 +0000

More Medicaid fraud investigators remain in the mix for the state Attorney General's office.

And the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is investigating after gunfire left one person dead and a police officer injured early this morning in Richfield.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Widespread racial and ethnic disparities persist, according to new health inequities analysis

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 11:30:00 +0000

A DFL gun violence prevention package faces one last committee hurdle Wednesday in the Minnesota Senate.

Gov. Tim Walz delivered his final State of the State speech Tuesday. The two-term Democrat had plenty of support from members of his party as he listed off the changes his administration has ushered through.

A new health inequities analysis released Wednesday shows widespread racial and ethnic disparities persist in Minnesota.

Runoff from this week’s snowmelt and heavy rain continues to keep rivers running high in northeastern Minnesota. A flood warning goes into effect Thursday morning along the South Kawishiwi River near Ely.

Feds execute search warrants at Minneapolis daycares

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 21:51:59 +0000

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz says today’s execution of search warrants at multiple locations across the Twin Cities is an example of state and federal agencies working together.

The federal Department of Homeland Security says the warrants are part of an ongoing criminal investigation related to fraud. The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth and Families confirmed the operation, saying it stems from information it shared with state and federal law enforcement.

That story and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Trump overturns ban on mining near the Boundary Waters

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 11:30:00 +0000

A bill to allow pharmacists to prescribe and dispense drugs to treat opioid withdrawal passed the Minnesota House unanimously Monday. The Senate is considering similar legislation as part of a larger healthcare bill.

President Donald Trump signed legislation Monday that overturned a 20-year ban on mining near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. The Senate passed the bill by just one vote two weeks ago. It allows copper and nickel mines to now resume exploration and submit mine plans. It's a win for Twin Metals, which wants to open an underground mine near Ely.

Plane crash victim remembered; Minnesota lawmakers advance bill to help businesses

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 21:43:38 +0000

North Dakota state legislator Liz Conmy died in a plane crash Saturday. Her family, friends and colleagues are remembering her as a mentor and “a source of joy.”

And a bill to help businesses affected by this winter's federal immigration crackdown is headed for a Minnesota Senate floor vote.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

At least 50 Minnesota group home clients have died since late 2022

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 11:41:00 +0000

Rising rent, tuition and grocery bills push more college students to food pantries

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 12:06:00 +0000

Rising grocery, rent and tuition costs are making it harder for many college students to afford food and a growing number are turning to food pantries. More than 10,000 University of Minnesota students visited the U's food pantry last fall.

Minnesota Senate Democrats passed their catch-all elections bill for the year on a party-line vote Thursday. The bill includes measures to shield home addresses of politicians for safety. It also makes voter intimidation and harassment of election officials a felony.

Minneapolis will add a commemorative street name on the city's north side to honor Birdell Beeks. The City Council voted Thursday to add her name to a street sign near the site of her death. Nearly 10 years ago Beeks was killed by a stray bullet while she sat in her minivan with her granddaughter.

A bill introduced at the Capitol Thursday would change how suspicious deaths tied to domestic violence are investigated. The bill is named for Allison Lussier, a 47-year-old Indigenous woman found dead in her Minneapolis apartment in February 2024. Her death was initially ruled suspicious; police later investigated it as a homicide. Lussier's family has accused Minneapolis police of ignoring signs of domestic violence.

Minneapolis man sentenced to over 8 years in prison for trying to join ISIS

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 12:06:00 +0000

Minneapolis police audit, eviction notice extension

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 21:12:18 +0000

The Minneapolis city auditor says procedural errors by MPD may have impeded police investigations leading up to two incidents -- the death of Allison Lussier and the non-fatal shooting of Davis Moturi.

And the Minneapolis City Council is expected to vote on whether to extend the city's eviction notice period from 30 days to 45.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Minneapolis auditor's report examines police response in two high-profile cases

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 12:21:00 +0000

The Minneapolis City Auditor will share its findings Wednesday over how the police department handled two high-profile incidents, which led to public accusations that police failed to protect people of color.

Those include the case of Allison Lussier, an Indigenous woman who was found dead in her apartment in 2024 after reporting domestic violence to the police. Lussier's death remains unsolved. As well as the case of Davis Moturi, a Black man who was shot by his white neighbor after Moturi reported escalating harassment for more than a year.

Fargo’s five mayoral candidates sparred over homelessness and the city’s budget problems at their first debate Tuesday. Fargo’s mayoral election is in June.

Reimbursements for cities after ICE surge; Data centers zoning request blocked in Nobles County

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 20:35:48 +0000

Minnesota lawmakers are still sorting through requests to reimburse cities for unplanned expenses during a surge of immigration agent activity earlier this year.

And the Nobles County Board voted this morning to deny a zoning change that would've allowed data centers to be built on farmland in the southwestern Minnesota County.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Bill enhancing penalties for coercion passed the state House unanimously Monday

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 11:47:00 +0000

Cleanup continues this week after Friday’s Rochester-area tornadoes

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 22:53:40 +0000

Cleanup continues this week after Friday’s tornadoes that damaged dozens of homes in the Rochester area. The worst of that damage was in the Stewartville and Marion areas. The National Weather Service says it was caused by an E-F-2 tornado with peak winds of 130 miles per hour.

Businesses are beginning to file refund requests for tariffs that were struck down by the Supreme Court.

This is an MPR News Evening update, hosted by Emily Reese. Theme music is by Gary Meister.

Lawmakers hammer out deals with Gov. Walz as the end of the legislative session looms

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 10:47:00 +0000

At the Minnesota Legislature, there is less than one month until the final day. Legislative leaders have started meeting with Gov. Tim Walz to hammer out deals. Among the remaining issues is school safety — from added counseling and security features to possible restrictions on guns.

Experts who study child abuse say Minnesota’s attempts to outlaw grooming are a step in the right direction, but more changes are needed. Minnesota lawmakers are considering a bill to make grooming a felony, ban teachers from being alone with students on field trips and require grooming prevention training.

Tornadoes touch down in Rochester area

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 20:38:40 +0000

Severe thunderstorms have produced tornadoes Friday afternoon in southeast Minnesota. The National Weather Service reported multiple sightings of tornadoes south and east of Rochester between 2 and 3 p.m. including a report from the Rochester Airport tower.

Federal prosecutors are inching closer to a decision on whether to seek the death penalty for the man accused of killing former DFL Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark.

This is an MPR News Evening update, hosted by Emily Reese. Theme music is by Gary Meister.

Strong to severe storms possible Friday before a cold snap

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:47:00 +0000

Strong storms are possible with even a couple of isolated severe storms ahead of a big cold front. The Storm Prediction Center says there is an enhanced risk (level 3 out of 5) for the southeastern corner of Minnesota and west-central Wisconsin. The national weather service says Friday morning could bring isolated hail and Friday afternoon could bring very large hail and the possibility of tornadoes.

Supporters of Thursday’s U.S. Senate vote to overturn a 20-year mining ban near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness are emphasizing that environmental safeguards remain in place. The move reopens the door for projects like Twin Metals’ proposed underground copper-nickel mine near Ely. Opponents of Thursday’s vote say they’ll continue to challenge proposed mines near the BWCA whether at the state level, or through the courts.

Minnesota Sen. John Hoffman and his family filed a civil lawsuit Thursday against the man charged with shooting them last June.

Senate votes to overturn mining ban near Boundary Waters

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 20:50:31 +0000

The U.S. Senate has voted to overturn a 20-year ban on mining on about 350 square miles of federal land near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, paving the way for Twin Metals to renew efforts to open an underground copper mine near Ely, on the doorstep of the wilderness area.

Minnesota lost jobs in February, and state officials are linking the decline to federal immigration enforcement.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Minnesota Supreme Court overturns murder conviction after finding cell phone location warrant was too broad

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:47:00 +0000