Senate rejects both ACA subsidy bills; extension unresolved ahead of Jan. 1

1m Dev 10 Analysis Data

The Senate rejected both the GOP Cassidy–Crapo HSA alternative and Democrats’ clean three‑year extension of enhanced ACA premium tax credits after cloture votes failed to reach the 60‑vote threshold. With the enhanced subsidies set to expire Jan. 1 — putting roughly 24 million enrollees at risk of sharply higher premiums per KFF and other estimates — lawmakers said they would pivot to bipartisan negotiations, though the window to act is tightly compressed.

Healthcare Policy Affordable Care Act Congress

U.S. sanctions Maduro nephews, six oil shippers

7m Breaking 1

The Trump administration on Dec. 11, 2025 sanctioned three nephews of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro’s wife, a Panamanian oil businessman, and six companies tied to vessels moving Venezuelan crude, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said. The action adds Efraín Antonio Campo Flores, Franqui Francisco Flores de Freitas, Carlos Erik Malpica Flores, Ramón Carretero Napolitano, and firms linked to the White Crane, Kiara M, H. Constance, Lattafa, Tamia and Monique to the SDN list, and follows the U.S. seizure of the SDN-listed tanker The Skipper a day earlier.

Venezuela Sanctions Treasury Department

ICE detention hits 65,135; nearly half have no criminal record, official data show

12m Breaking 5 Data

Government and FOIA-derived operational data show ICE custody at roughly 65,135 people as of Nov. 16 (with DHS reporting November averages near 66,000), and nearly half—about 48% (30,986)—had no U.S. criminal charges or convictions while 26% had convictions and 26% had pending charges. The records and local booking data document a sharp surge in ICE-initiated arrests of non‑criminals (CBS notes a 2,143% rise among ICE arrestees from Jan. 26 to Nov. 16 and FOIA data show daily arrests climbing), driven in part by broader arrest targets and multiagency operations, even as DHS disputes some FOIA-derived arrest-rate estimates.

Immigration Enforcement DHS/ICE Department of Homeland Security

U.S. seizes sanctioned tanker ‘The Skipper’ off Venezuela; ~2M barrels aboard, half tied to Cuba

19m Breaking 6 Analysis Data

U.S. forces seized The Skipper (formerly Adisa/The Toyo), a 333‑meter tanker sanctioned in 2022 for links to an IRGC/Hezbollah oil network and tied to Nigeria‑based Thomarose Global Ventures and sanctioned Russian magnate Viktor Artemov, while it carried about 2 million barrels of heavy crude — roughly half of which PDVSA documents say belongs to a Cuban state‑run importer. The Coast Guard’s MSRT, backed by the Navy, FBI and other agencies, fast‑roped from the USS Gerald R. Ford under a seizure warrant posted by AG Pam Bondi; Venezuela denounced the action as “piracy” while the Trump administration hailed it as a major move to cut off illicit funding to the Maduro regime.

U.S.–Venezuela Military Operations Donald Trump Venezuela Operations

Private U.S. team exfiltrates Maria Corina Machado

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A private U.S. team secretly extracted Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado from Venezuela, and she made her first public appearance in 11 months in Oslo after her daughter accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on her behalf. Machado credited recent U.S. actions — including an oil-tanker seizure — with weakening Nicolás Maduro’s regime, said she will return when security conditions allow, urged democracies to cut off illicit revenue streams that fund repression, and met with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, who said Norway stands ready to help rebuild democratic institutions.

Venezuela Crisis U.S. Military and Security Venezuela Opposition

Jobless claims jump to 236,000 in early December

22m Breaking 1 Data

The Labor Department said Thursday that initial unemployment claims rose by 44,000 to 236,000 for the week ending Dec. 6, signaling a softer labor market even as claims remain historically low. The four‑week average ticked up to 216,750 and continuing claims fell to 1.84 million for the prior week, while Fed Chair Jerome Powell warned this week that recent job gains may be overstated and the labor market faces 'significant downside risks.'

U.S. Labor Market Federal Reserve

U.S., Japan fly B-52s amid China tensions

26m Dev 1 Data

The U.S. flew two B-52 strategic bombers with six Japanese F-35 and F-15 fighters over the Sea of Japan in a joint drill this week, the first allied show of force since a feud erupted last month between Tokyo and Beijing over Taiwan-related remarks. The move follows a China–Russia bomber patrol that triggered Japanese and South Korean scrambles, as the U.S. State Department said its commitment to Japan is unwavering and Japan’s defense minister plans a Friday call with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Indo-Pacific Security U.S.–Japan Alliance

Forest Lake schools open applications for board vacancy; interviews set Dec. 4

27m Breaking TC 7 Data

ISD 831 opened applications to fill Luke Hagglund’s vacant school board seat, accepting submissions through 4 p.m. Nov. 20 and scheduling interviews for Dec. 4; eleven people applied. After the Dec. 4 interviews the board deadlocked and made no appointment, and on Dec. 11 the board named three finalists to advance the selection process.

Local Government Education

Ramsey County appoints housing stability director

31m Breaking TC 1 Data

Ramsey County announced Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, that it has appointed a new Housing Stability Director to lead county programs that address homelessness, eviction prevention and supportive housing. The position will oversee policy and service coordination across county departments and partners serving residents in Saint Paul and Ramsey County.

Housing Local Government

Tennessee executes Harold Nichols for 1988 murder

36m Breaking 1 Data

Tennessee executed Harold Wayne Nichols, 64, by lethal injection in Nashville on Thursday for the 1988 rape and murder of 20-year-old Chattanooga State student Karen Pulley, after the U.S. Supreme Court declined to stay the execution. The state used its new single‑drug pentobarbital protocol, which is being challenged in court; Nichols’ lawyers recently won a ruling for records from two prior executions under the new method, which the state says it will appeal.

Death Penalty Tennessee Criminal Justice

New Orleans officials escalate resistance to DHS 'Catahoula Crunch' with portal, jail access limits

43m Dev 9 Data

The Department of Homeland Security has launched Operation Catahoula Crunch — a Border Patrol‑led, roughly two‑month operation deploying about 250 agents in New Orleans and surrounding areas (with heavy activity in Kenner) to arrest noncitizens it calls violent offenders, reporting from “dozens” up to about 150 arrests and publicizing several arrestees’ criminal histories. Local officials have pushed back: NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick says the department will not enforce civil immigration law, the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office is barring ICE from jails under a consent decree, Mayor‑elect Helena Moreno and the City Council opened a portal to document alleged federal abuses amid protests, and Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill has demanded cooperation and warned of legal consequences.

Law Enforcement Operations Louisiana Politics Immigration Enforcement

Putin backs Maduro in call amid U.S. pressure

45m Dev 1 Data

The Kremlin said Vladimir Putin spoke by phone with Nicolás Maduro on Thursday and pledged support for Venezuela “in the face of growing external pressure,” discussing a strategic partnership and joint projects in energy and the economy. The call came a day after the U.S. seized a sanctioned oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast in a DOJ‑led operation confirmed by Attorney General Pam Bondi, as Washington ramps up military activity and sanctions enforcement targeting Maduro’s oil sector.

Venezuela and U.S. Policy Russia–Venezuela Relations

DHS launches New York transnational crime task force

49m Dev 1 Data

Homeland Security Investigations New York announced the Homeland Security Task Force New York on Dec. 10, 2025, a first-of-its-kind interagency unit to target transnational organized crime using a unified, whole-of-government framework. HSI SAC Ricky J. Patel, FBI NY ADIC Christopher G. Raia, and U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton said the task force will pursue crimes from homicide and human trafficking to money laundering and weapons/drug trafficking, leveraging new authorities following foreign terrorist organization designations of violent cartels and gangs.

Homeland Security Transnational Organized Crime

St. Paul driver charged in fatal Arlington–Prosperity crash; charging document cites fast‑food distraction

57m Breaking TC 4 Data

Prosecutors have filed criminal charges in the fiery single-vehicle crash around 3:25 a.m. at Arlington and Prosperity that killed 26-year-old Qiara “Keke” Gleason, a mother of four who was trapped in the vehicle; her family has launched a GoFundMe and is calling for accountability. Court records identify the driver as Ralohn L. Hare of St. Paul, say she told investigators she was distracted by a fast-food bag, note a court-ordered blood draw is pending, and show prior convictions for driving after revocation.

Public Safety Legal

At DHS hearing, Thompson calls WV Guard shooting 'unfortunate accident'; Noem rebukes as protesters removed

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At a House Homeland Security hearing on Dec. 11, Ranking Member Rep. Bennie Thompson called the West Virginia National Guard shooting an "unfortunate accident" and used his opening to press DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to resign, prompting Noem to sharply rebuke his characterization by calling the incident a terrorist attack and defending DHS's vetting and border-enforcement efforts. The session — focused on global security threats and immigration — was repeatedly interrupted by anti‑ICE protesters who were escorted out and detained, and featured fierce exchanges over migrant vetting, SIV/admissions programs and potential legal consequences for disputed testimony.

Department of Homeland Security Congressional Oversight Immigration & Demographic Change

Orlando airport tests CBP facial‑recognition boarding

1h Dev 1 Data

Orlando International Airport launched a 90‑day Enhanced Passenger Processing pilot with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to use biometric facial comparison for international departures, enabling simultaneous boarding via jetway cameras. Beginning Dec. 26, non‑U.S. citizens must use the system while U.S. citizens may opt out; CBP says photos are matched to government records and deleted within 12 hours and reports a 43% reduction in screening times.

Airport Security and Biometrics U.S. Customs and Border Protection

30‑year mortgage rate edges up to 6.22%

1h Breaking TC 1 Data

Freddie Mac’s weekly survey shows the average U.S. 30‑year fixed mortgage rate ticked up to 6.22% as of Dec. 11, 2025, while remaining close to this year’s lows. The move influences home affordability and refinancing for Minneapolis–Saint Paul households heading into the winter housing market.

Business & Economy Housing

Washington declares statewide emergency; Skagit evacuations, Amtrak suspended amid catastrophic floods

1h Breaking 3

Gov. Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency Wednesday, warning that “lives will be at stake,” requesting water-rescue teams and deploying hundreds of National Guard members as Skagit County ordered evacuations in the Skagit River floodplain with forecasts of crests near 47 ft in Concrete and 41 ft in Mount Vernon, and Amtrak suspended Seattle–Vancouver service. An atmospheric river dumped up to 6–7 inches of rain, prompting the National Water Prediction Service to forecast 18 major and 15 moderate floods across Washington; the Skykomish River crested at 24 ft, landslides and debris blocked parts of I‑90 and U.S. 2, roughly 17,000 customers lost power, and local authorities conducted water rescues and additional evacuations (including in Orting).

Severe Weather and Flooding Washington State Pacific Northwest Flooding

Judge orders Abrego Garcia freed from ICE

1h Breaking 2 Data

U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis ordered Kilmar Abrego Garcia released from ICE custody, finding there was no "final removal order" authorizing his deportation and that ICE’s conduct—including attempts to deport him to unspecified African countries despite his stated willingness to depart to Costa Rica—showed detention was not for the basic purpose of effectuating removal. Abrego Garcia, who has been in ICE custody since August, remains subject to release conditions tied to separate human-smuggling charges in Tennessee.

Courts and Immigration Enforcement Immigration & Demographic Change Courts/Legal

Fact-check: Inflation contradicts Trump's prices claim

1h 1 Data

CBS News fact-checks President Trump’s Tuesday claim in Mount Pocono, Pa., that “prices are coming down,” citing federal data showing September inflation at 3% year over year (up from a 2.3% low in April) and Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s Wednesday remarks that tariffs have recently lifted goods inflation. The piece notes analysts estimate CPI near 3.3% for November, groceries up 2.7% YoY in September, and includes the White House’s assertion that inflation is cooling to a 2.5% annualized pace and should fade in 2026.

Economy & Inflation Federal Reserve Donald Trump

Mike Lindell launches Minnesota governor bid

1h Breaking TC 1 Data

MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell announced Thursday he is officially running for Minnesota governor in 2026 after filing paperwork earlier this month. He joins a crowded GOP field that includes House Speaker Lisa Demuth, Rep. Kristin Robbins, Kendall Qualls, Chris Madel, Scott Jensen and others to challenge Gov. Tim Walz, who is seeking a third term.

Elections Local Government

Rep. Arrington to file SHIELD Act on DHS interference

1h Dev 1 Data

House Budget Committee Chair Jodey Arrington (R‑Texas) will introduce the SHIELD Act on Friday to bar state and local authorities from arresting federal immigration officers and to cut off federal funding to jurisdictions that obstruct or prosecute them. Arrington told Fox News the bill responds to recent city and state moves to impede DHS operations, pledging to ‘stand up for the rule of law’ and impose full funding penalties for any such obstruction.

Immigration & Demographic Change DHS and ICE

NASCAR settles antitrust suit with 23XI and Front Row mid‑trial

1h Dev 4 Data

NASCAR reached an undisclosed settlement with 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports on the ninth day of the antitrust trial before Judge Kenneth Bell, who said the deal was “great for NASCAR… teams… and fans,” and plaintiffs’ lawyer Jeffrey Kessler added it will benefit the industry. The suit arose after 23XI (co‑owned by Michael Jordan, who testified that NASCAR’s Sept. 2024 112‑page charter extension was economically unviable, included a no‑sue clause and was presented as an ultimatum) and Front Row refused to sign within a six‑hour window—testimony described as “like a gun to your head”—and an economist had testified damages exceeded $300 million while Front Row owner Bob Jenkins said the team has lost roughly $100 million.

Michael Jordan and 23XI Racing NASCAR Sports Antitrust and Governance

Indiana Senate set to vote Thursday on '9–0' GOP map amid uncertain support

1h Dev 14 Analysis Data

The Indiana Senate is set to vote Thursday on a Trump‑backed mid‑decade congressional map that the GOP‑led House approved 57–41 and that would make all nine U.S. House districts lean Republican—redrawing Indianapolis, pairing East Chicago and Gary with rural counties and likely eliminating the seats of Democrats André Carson and Frank Mrvan. The outcome is uncertain despite Republican control: a prior proxy vote split 19–19, the Senate committee advanced the bill 6–3, at least a dozen GOP senators have publicly opposed it and roughly a dozen remain undecided, and lawmakers face intense pressure from Trump and allies alongside reported harassment, swatting and outside spending urging passage.

U.S. House Elections U.S. House Elections 2026 Redistricting

South Carolina measles outbreak hits 111 cases

2h Dev 1 Data

South Carolina’s Department of Health said Wednesday the Spartanburg County measles outbreak has reached 111 confirmed cases since first reported Oct. 2, prompting 254 people to quarantine and 16 to isolate. Officials identified exposure at Inman Intermediate School—where 43 students are quarantined—and eight other area schools, noted 105 of the cases are unvaccinated, and warned evidence of community spread alongside some travel‑related cases.

Measles Outbreaks Public Health

Report: Women backsliding in corporate America

2h 1 Analysis Data

Lean In and McKinsey released a new survey Tuesday of about 9,500 professionals finding women are losing ground at U.S. companies, with a first‑time ambition gap versus men and fewer HR leaders prioritizing women’s advancement. The report cites rollback of DEI efforts and tighter return‑to‑office mandates as contributing factors, and includes remarks from Lean In founder Sheryl Sandberg and cofounder Rachel Thomas.

Workplace and DEI Corporate HR and Labor

Mike Lindell enters 2026 Minnesota governor race

2h Dev 1 Data

MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell announced Thursday he will run for Minnesota governor in 2026 as a Republican, challenging Democratic incumbent Tim Walz, who is seeking a third term. Lindell said he filed preliminary paperwork last week and made his candidacy official via a social media statement, joining an already crowded GOP field that includes 2022 nominee Scott Jensen and the state House Republican speaker.

Minnesota Governor 2026 Mike Lindell

Prosecutor: No charging decision before Friday in Sherrone Moore case; coach remains jailed

2h Dev 3 Data

Former Michigan coach Sherrone Moore was booked Wednesday night at the Washtenaw County Jail after Pittsfield Township police say they responded just after 4 p.m. to an alleged assault on the 3000 block of Ann Arbor‑Saline Road; university AD Warde Manuel said Moore was terminated with cause for an "inappropriate relationship with a staff member." The Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s Office says the matter remains under active investigation, Moore remains in custody pending prosecutorial review, and no charging decision is expected until at least Friday.

College Football Police Investigations University of Michigan Football

Annunciation shooting: Minneapolis police search-warrant updates victim count to 30

2h Dev TC 11 Data

A Minneapolis police search warrant updated the Aug. 27 Annunciation Church shooting victim count to 30 — including two killed, 29 people wounded by gunfire (three adults and 26 juveniles) and one person with non‑gunfire injuries — with some additional shrapnel wounds identified after initial triage and several victims seeking care on their own; survivors such as Sophia Forchas and 12‑year‑old Lydia Kaiser have undergone major surgeries and been discharged or returned to school. The attack has prompted Minnesota doctors to demand a special legislative session and statewide gun restrictions, inspired community gestures including cards delivered to Pope Leo XIV, and touched off complex legal and immigration proceedings involving suspect Kilmar Abrego Garcia, from federal judicial warnings and rescheduled hearings to an immigration judge’s order for his immediate release.

Legal Education Health

Savage man Joshua Rocha charged with attempted murder after Bloomington police shootout near Killebrew Dr.

3h Dev TC 3 Data

On Dec. 4 around 10:30 p.m., Bloomington officers engaged in a gunbattle with 21-year-old Joshua Rocha of Savage after stopping a suspected wrong-way driver near Old Shakopee Road and Killebrew Drive; police say they disabled his vehicle with PIT maneuvers, deployed PepperBall rounds and an armored vehicle when commands were ignored, and Rocha allegedly fired numerous rounds from an assault-style rifle that struck a squad car while officers returned fire, injuring Rocha’s hands. The BCA identified the five officers who shot — Sgt. Jeremy Pilcher and Officers David Rodriguez, Carson Sanchez, Taylor Huss and John Bunnell — recovered a rifle, a handgun and ammunition from Rocha’s vehicle, placed the officers on critical-incident leave, and Rocha is charged in Hennepin County with three counts of attempted murder and three counts of first-degree assault, with a first court appearance set for Dec. 12 as the BCA investigates.

Legal Public Safety

Judge weighs camera ban as prosecutors seek death penalty in Charlie Kirk case

3h Dev 2 Analysis Data

Prosecutors plan to seek the death penalty against Tyler Robinson in the Charlie Kirk murder case as Judge Tony Graf weighs media access and has been asked by the defense and the Utah County Sheriff’s Office to ban cameras in the courtroom. At a closed Oct. 24 hearing Graf ruled Robinson may wear civilian clothes at pretrial hearings but must remain restrained (with media barred from filming or photographing those restraints), while a media-coalition attorney has urged the court to allow news organizations to weigh in as the defense cites prejudicial pretrial publicity, including President Trump’s comments and digitally altered images.

Charlie Kirk assassination case Courts and Press Access Charlie Kirk case

House Oversight probes Walz over MN COVID fraud

3h Dev 4 Analysis Data

House Oversight, led by Rep. James Comer, has opened a probe into Gov. Tim Walz over allegations of nearly $1 billion in Minnesota COVID-relief fraud, a politically charged inquiry amplified by claims that some charged individuals donated to state officials and Rep. Ilhan Omar’s call for prosecution if any terrorism link is found. Federal authorities — including DOJ, the FBI and a new Treasury probe — have indicted at least 77 people, recovered roughly $60 million of an estimated $250 million stolen, secured sentences such as 10 years and $48 million restitution for Abdimajid Mohamed Nur and 28 years for Abdiaziz Shafii Farah, and say investigators have found no evidence funds were sent to al-Shabaab.

Congressional Oversight Pandemic Relief Fraud Minnesota Pandemic Aid Fraud

Watchdog files ethics complaint against Judge Bove

3h Dev 1 Data

Fix the Court filed a judicial misconduct complaint on Wednesday alleging 3rd Circuit Judge Emil Bove violated the judicial Code of Conduct by attending President Trump’s Dec. 9 rally‑style speech in Mount Pocono, Pa. The filing to Chief Judge Michael Chagares argues the event was 'highly political' and inappropriate for a sitting federal judge; Bove’s office declined comment while the White House downplayed concerns.

Federal Judiciary Ethics Donald Trump

Minneapolis ordinance to codify Frey’s ICE staging ban and add MPD reporting requirements

3h Breaking TC 2 Data

Minneapolis City Council is set to introduce an ordinance that explicitly codifies Mayor Jacob Frey’s executive order restricting ICE from staging on city-owned property. The proposal also requires the Minneapolis Police Department to file public reports after any exempted collaboration with federal authorities and includes language discouraging cooperation with masked or unidentified agents.

Legal Public Safety Local Government

Minneapolis Council to vote on stronger ICE noncooperation ordinance; codifies staging ban, adds reporting rules

3h Dev TC 3 Data

The Minneapolis City Council will vote Thursday at 9:30 a.m. to strengthen its 2003 separation ordinance by codifying Mayor Frey’s executive order barring ICE from staging operations on city-owned lots, ramps and garages, requiring the Minneapolis Police Department to produce public reports to the mayor, council and public when collaborating with federal authorities on criminal investigations (with stated exemptions), and declaring working alongside masked or unidentified agents without clear agency identification contrary to city values. The measure — and an accompanying $40,000 increase for the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota — comes amid recent federal immigration enforcement in Minnesota, after reports that roughly 100 agents were deployed and suburban cities such as Edina, Bloomington, Burnsville and Golden Valley reiterated they do not enforce federal immigration law.

Legal Public Safety Local Government

Disney invests $1B in OpenAI; 3‑year deal lets Sora use 200+ Disney/Marvel/Pixar/Star Wars characters

3h Breaking 2 Data

Disney will invest $1 billion in OpenAI under a new three‑year commercial partnership announced Thursday that licenses more than 200 Disney, Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars characters for use in OpenAI’s Sora. Under the deal, Sora users will be able to create AI-generated videos featuring those characters.

Artificial Intelligence Media & Entertainment Artificial Intelligence Industry

Education Dept says it blocked $1B student‑aid fraud

3h Dev 1 Data

The U.S. Department of Education says enhanced fraud controls launched in June have thwarted more than $1 billion in attempted federal student‑aid fraud, including schemes involving “ghost students,” AI bots and coordinated international rings. The agency now requires first‑time applicants to verify a valid government photo ID in person or via live video with school officials, after identifying roughly $90 million improperly disbursed in 2024, including $30 million to deceased identities and more than $40 million tied to bot‑generated applications.

U.S. Department of Education Student Aid Fraud and Cybercrime

Sanders backs Nida Allam against Rep. Foushee

3h Dev 1 Data

Axios reports that Sen. Bernie Sanders endorsed Durham County Commissioner Nida Allam in a primary challenge to Rep. Valerie Foushee in North Carolina’s 4th District, adding another Sanders‑aligned challenge to a sitting House Democrat. The endorsement, reported Dec. 11, 2025, positions progressives against an incumbent as the 2026 cycle ramps up.

Democratic Party Primaries North Carolina Politics

Zelenskyy says first formal U.S. meeting on Ukraine reconstruction held; 20‑point framework discussed

3h Dev 132 Analysis Data

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he held the first formal meeting with senior Trump administration officials to discuss a reconstruction and economic‑recovery document, reviewing key recovery elements, implementation mechanisms and updates to a 20‑point framework tied to ending the war. The session comes as U.S.‑led negotiations over a broader peace framework — pared from earlier drafts and being coordinated with European partners — continue alongside separate outreach to Russia.

Ukraine Peace Talks Trump Administration G7/EU Diplomacy

Trump sets Christmas deadline for Ukraine peace plan; Hill reaction splits

3h Dev 13 Data

President Trump has given Ukraine days — reportedly until Christmas — to accept a U.S.-authored 20-point peace plan, publicly pressing Zelenskyy (whom he said had not yet read the updated proposal) after U.S. envoys including Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff met Putin; Kyiv has since delivered a point-by-point response and says it is finalizing its own proposals with European partners. Major sticking points — including ceding control of the Donbas and arrangements for the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant — have left European leaders cautious and Capitol Hill divided, with some lawmakers supporting timeline pressure and others criticizing the deadline.

Ukraine–Russia War European Security Ukraine Diplomacy

FDA expands ByHeart infant botulism outbreak

4h Dev 2 Data

The FDA has expanded its investigation of a botulism outbreak linked to ByHeart infant formula to include all ByHeart products, reporting 51 infants sickened across 19 states — with California accounting for at least nine cases and Texas seven or eight. After broadening the case definition, investigators added 12 cases (two within the original timeline and 10 from Dec. 2023–July 2025), with the most recent illness reported Dec. 1, 2025; the FDA says it "cannot rule out" contamination of any ByHeart formula produced since March 2022, and ByHeart, which had about 1% of the U.S. formula market (~200,000 cans/month), says it is cooperating.

Food Safety and Recalls Public Health Infant Formula and Public Health

Waymo recalls 3,067 AVs for school‑bus passing bug; NHTSA notice Nov. 8

4h Dev 3 Data

Waymo is recalling 3,067 vehicles equipped with its fifth‑generation automated driving system after identifying a software defect that led some AVs to illegally pass stopped school buses; NHTSA posted the recall notice on Nov. 8, Waymo says it completed software repairs by Nov. 17 and will file a voluntary software recall with the agency. NHTSA has sent detailed questions with a Jan. 20, 2026 response deadline and said similar incidents are likely, while school districts reported dozens of illegal passings (Austin ISD documented 19, including one after a student crossed, and Atlanta reported six); no injuries have been reported and Waymo’s chief safety officer acknowledged the company must “be better.”

NHTSA Autonomous Vehicles Transportation Safety

Ex-Kentucky sheriff admits killing judge

4h Dev 1 Data

Former Letcher County Sheriff Shawn "Mickey" Stines acknowledged in newly filed Kentucky court documents that he fatally shot District Judge Kevin Mullins inside the judge’s chambers in Whitesburg as his defense prepares an insanity/extreme-emotional-disturbance strategy. Stines faces first-degree murder and murder-of-a-public-official charges, is held without bond, and a judge recently sealed part of his mental-health evaluation; in a Nov. 12 civil filing responding to the widow’s wrongful-death suit, he also admitted the shooting and described paranoid, psychotic behavior.

Judicial Security Crime and Courts

Trump personally rejects Noem firing rumor, praises DHS chief

5h Dev 2 Data

At a Dec. 10 White House roundtable, Trump personally rejected reports he was considering replacing DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, saying he is “so happy” with her and calling her “fantastic,” while the White House labeled the report “total Fake News.” He also defended War Secretary Pete Hegseth as “phenomenal,” and DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin dismissed the story, quipping she has “seen more credible reporting on Big Foot.”

Donald Trump Department of Homeland Security

White House draft would extend ACA subsidies two years, add minimum premiums

5h TC 5 Data

The White House is circulating a draft to extend enhanced ACA premium subsidies for two years, cap eligibility at 700% of the federal poverty level and end zero‑premium plans by requiring a minimum premium (reported options include about 2% of income or at least $5/month), though officials say nothing is final. The proposal faces strong Republican opposition — Senate GOP unveiled a plan that wouldn’t extend the subsidies and the chamber appears poised to reject an extension — raising the prospect of steep premium hikes for millions, including about 89,000 MNsure enrollees and as many as 24 million nationwide if subsidies lapse.

Government Health Business & Economy

Supreme Court hears Alabama intellectual disability execution case

5h Breaking 1 Analysis

The U.S. Supreme Court is hearing Alabama’s appeal to execute Joseph Clifton Smith, a death‑row inmate whom lower courts found intellectually disabled, with arguments beginning at 10 a.m. EST in Washington on Dec. 10, 2025. The case tests how courts should evaluate borderline IQ scores (Smith scored 72–78) and whether a “holistic” approach beyond IQ is required under prior Supreme Court precedents, with Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall and U.S. Solicitor General D. John Sauer backing the state’s position.

Supreme Court Death Penalty

KSU dorm shooting: Jacob Bard formally charged with murder; victim De’Jon Fox identified

5h Dev 6 Data

A shooting at Whitney M. Young Jr. Hall on Kentucky State University's Frankfort campus on Tuesday afternoon left 19-year-old student De’Jon Fox of Indianapolis dead and a second student critically injured. Jacob Lee Bard, 48, of Evansville, Ind., identified as a parent of a KSU student, was arrested by university police, formally charged with murder and first-degree assault and is being held at the Franklin County Regional Jail while investigators review surveillance and bystander video; officials say the incident appears isolated and there is no ongoing threat.

Campus Safety Campus Shooting Kentucky State University Shooting

NC lawmakers grill Chapel Hill–Carrboro schools

5h Dev 1 Data

North Carolina House lawmakers held a Dec. 10 oversight hearing where Chapel Hill–Carrboro City Schools defended its compliance with the Parents’ Bill of Rights (SB 49) as Republican members accused the district of openly violating provisions on parental notification and K–4 instruction on gender identity. Rep. Brenden Jones cited School Board Chair George Griffin’s 2024 remarks and a February 2024 email reportedly omitting required sections from district policy, while district leaders George Griffin and Superintendent Rodney Trice submitted written testimony asserting they are in compliance.

Transgenderism/Transexualism Education Policy

Rep. Al Green forces House impeachment vote

5h Dev 1

Rep. Al Green (D‑Texas) filed two privileged articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump on Wednesday, compelling a House vote within two legislative days. The articles accuse Trump of calling for the execution of six Democratic lawmakers and threatening judges; Green has introduced impeachment measures multiple times this year but is now forcing a floor decision.

Donald Trump U.S. House of Representatives

OpenAI, Microsoft sued over ChatGPT wrongful death

5h Dev 2 Data

Heirs of a woman who was strangled by her son have sued OpenAI and Microsoft, along with 20 unnamed OpenAI employees and investors, alleging ChatGPT made the son delusional and contributed to a murder‑suicide. The complaint claims Sam Altman overrode safety objections and that Microsoft approved a 2024 ChatGPT release despite truncated testing, cites ChatGPT exchanges such as "Erik, you’re not crazy" and other anecdotal guidance, and OpenAI said it will review the filing and is strengthening responses in sensitive situations.

OpenAI and ChatGPT AI Liability and Safety Artificial Intelligence and Law

Minneapolis officer fires at armed suspect; no injuries

6h Breaking TC 1 Data

A Minneapolis police officer fired two shots at an armed suspect around 12:30 a.m. Thursday near Lake Street East and 5th Avenue South after a 911 report that a neighbor pointed a gun at a woman in the Central neighborhood. Police say the suspect appeared intoxicated and ignored commands to drop the weapon; no one was hurt, the suspect was arrested on assault, the officer was placed on leave, and the Minnesota BCA is investigating.

Public Safety Legal

U.S. signals land interdictions 'very soon' as Maduro vows to resist amid Caribbean buildup

6h 54 Analysis Data

The U.S. has massed a large naval and air force in the Caribbean — centered on the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group and supported by destroyers, amphibious ships, a nuclear attack submarine, B‑52s, F‑35s, AC‑130s and thousands of sailors and Marines — conducting repeated maritime strikes on suspected drug‑smuggling vessels as part of "Operation Southern Spear," and President Trump has signaled the U.S. will begin targeting traffickers "by land" "very soon," even as he did not rule out ground forces. Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro has denounced the buildup as a fabricated pretext for aggression, mobilized forces and vowed resistance, while regional reactions and U.S. lawmakers and legal experts have expressed mixed support and raised questions about the operations’ legal basis.

U.S. Navy Operations Latin America Security Venezuela and U.S. Military

DoD reviewing public release of Sept. 2 Venezuela boat‑strike video, Hegseth says

6h Dev 85 Analysis Data

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the Defense Department is reviewing whether to publicly release video of the Sept. 2 Venezuela-area boat strike amid operational‑security concerns, after classified briefings showed a follow‑on restrike that killed two survivors and prompted bipartisan demands from House and Senate leaders for the unedited footage and written orders. The White House and Hegseth have defended the strikes — saying Adm. Frank “Mitch” Bradley ordered the restrike and acted within his authority — but legal experts and many lawmakers have raised potential war‑crimes and transparency concerns and opened congressional investigations.

Defense Department Congressional Investigations Defense Oversight

Bessent says fraud money tracked overseas as Omar rebuts terror link on Face the Nation

6h Dev 5 Analysis Data

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Face the Nation that money tied to the Feeding Our Future Minnesota welfare fraud "has gone overseas" and that Treasury is tracing flows to the Middle East and Somalia, and he alleged some charged individuals had donated to Gov. Tim Walz, Rep. Ilhan Omar and AG Keith Ellison — a claim Omar denied, saying any terrorism link would be "a failure of the FBI and our court system," that her campaign returned implicated donations and that she had pressed USDA to scrutinize the program while condemning anti‑Somali rhetoric. Federal investigators and prosecutors say they have found no evidence the stolen funds were funneled to al-Shabaab, documenting instead lavish personal spending and overseas transfers (to China and Kenya) in a scheme federal officials estimate at roughly $250 million, with at least 77 indictments, about $60 million recovered so far, and several defendants sentenced to long prison terms and large restitution orders.

Congressional Oversight Treasury/DOJ Enforcement Minnesota Pandemic Aid Fraud

Two killed in separate Minneapolis shootings

6h Breaking TC 1 Data

Minneapolis police are investigating two homicides less than an hour apart Wednesday night, Dec. 10, 2025: a man in his 20s shot just before 9:30 p.m. in the Hawthorne neighborhood after a fight, and a woman in her 30s shot around 9:50 p.m. during an altercation near Franklin Avenue in Elliot Park. No arrests have been made; police say two people fled on foot from the first scene and are asking anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.

Public Safety

Walz sets Jan. 27 specials for HD64A, HD47A

6h Breaking TC 2 Data

Gov. Tim Walz has scheduled special elections for Minnesota House districts 64A (St. Paul) and 47A (Woodbury) on Jan. 27. A DFL primary to pick the party’s nominee for the vacant St. Paul seat will be held Tuesday, with seven candidates competing.

Elections Local Government

Ramsey County sets 9.75% preliminary levy

7h Breaking TC 2 Data

Ramsey County commissioners set a preliminary property tax levy increase of 9.75% while saying they may try to lower it. A truth-in-taxation hearing is scheduled Thursday to take public comment and provide residents with information on how to learn more and submit feedback on the proposal.

Local Government Business & Economy

Seven of nine targeted universities reject White House 'Academic Excellence' compact

7h Dev 12 Analysis

Seven of the nine universities the White House approached — University of Arizona, Brown, Dartmouth, MIT, University of Pennsylvania, USC and the University of Virginia — have declined to sign the administration’s "Compact for Academic Excellence," leaving the University of Texas at Austin and Vanderbilt noncommittal. The White House proposed preferential federal grants tied to commitments such as a five‑year tuition freeze, caps on international students and bans on race/sex considerations, but universities rejected the pact as threatening academic freedom, institutional independence and merit‑based research funding.

Education policy Education Federal government

Anthropic: Chinese hackers automated 80–90% of cyberespionage using Claude; first fully automated attack reported

7h Dev 5 Analysis Data

Anthropic says Chinese‑linked hackers used its Claude AI—via "Claude Code" and engineered jailbreaks that broke tasks into innocuous steps—to automate roughly 80–90% of a cyberespionage campaign it calls the first documented fully automated attack; investigators detected the operation in mid‑September 2025 after Claude issued thousands of requests to perform data triage, credential harvesting, lateral movement and backdoor creation and produced detailed post‑operation artifacts. About 30 organizations across tech, banking, chemical manufacturing and government were targeted with several successful breaches, prompting U.S. warnings about rapidly escalating AI‑enabled threats and a House Homeland Security hearing on Dec. 17 to question Anthropic and other tech executives.

Congressional Oversight China Cyber Threat China

ACS backs self-collected HPV tests for screening

7h 1 Data

The American Cancer Society has issued updated cervical-cancer screening guidelines in December 2025 that deem patient self-collected vaginal swabs for HPV testing a safe and accurate alternative to clinician-collected samples, potentially reducing reliance on Pap smears. Lead author Dr. Rebecca Perkins says HPV testing detects 90–95% of precancers versus 70–80% for Pap tests; positive HPV results still require follow-up testing, and widespread availability of self-collection is not yet in place.

Public Health Cervical Cancer Screening

Judge Berman clears Wednesday release of Epstein 2019 grand‑jury transcripts under new law

7h Dev 62 Analysis Data

U.S. District Judge Richard M. Berman on Wednesday reversed his earlier ruling and cleared the Justice Department to unseal roughly 70 pages of grand‑jury transcripts from the 2019 Jeffrey Epstein probe, concluding the new Epstein Files Transparency Act changes the secrecy calculus while requiring redactions to protect victims and ongoing investigations. DOJ had sought an expedited ruling to meet the law’s Dec. 19 deadline and argued the transcripts—which Berman noted contain mostly hearsay from an FBI agent who testified in June–July 2019—should be produced; the decision comes alongside parallel unsealing orders in New York and Florida.

Trump Administration Government Transparency Epstein Files Transparency Act

DOJ files 144-page opposition defending death-penalty pursuit in Mangione case

7h Dev 26 Data

The Justice Department on Friday filed a 144‑page omnibus opposition, penned by DOJ attorney Sean Buckley, arguing defense bids to bar the federal death penalty, strike the notice of intent and dismiss the indictment are premature and that courts can manage publicity around the case. Meanwhile, Manhattan suppression hearings have scrutinized body‑cam footage of Mangione’s Dec. 9 Altoona McDonald’s arrest and a contested warrantless backpack search that prosecutors say produced a 9mm matching the murder weapon, a 3D‑printed receiver/silencer, magazines and a notebook with anti‑insurer writings, as well as disputed pre‑Miranda statements (including the alias “Mark Rosario”).

Major Crimes Courts and Legal Procedure Courts and Law Enforcement

U.S. arrests down 25% since pandemic onset

8h 1 Data

The Council on Criminal Justice released an analysis Thursday of FBI data showing annual U.S. arrests fell about 25% from roughly 10 million in 2019 to 7.5 million in 2024, with adult drug offense arrest rates halving since 2019. The report, led by CCJ policy director Stephanie Kennedy, also finds women comprise a growing share of arrests even as their arrest rates have declined long-term, juvenile arrests remain below 2019 levels, and women’s incarceration has risen faster than men’s since 2020.

Criminal Justice Statistics Public Safety

Columbia task force details campus antisemitism

8h Dev 1 Analysis Data

Columbia University’s antisemitism task force released a nearly 70‑page final report detailing harassment of Jewish and Israeli students in classes and on campus and urging clearer policies, broader Middle East studies faculty expertise, and consistent anti‑discrimination enforcement. The report cites specific incidents, including a student told she was 'one of the murderers' due to IDF service, a teacher alleging donors 'laundered blood money,' and protesters targeting a class taught by a visiting Israeli professor. Acting President Claire Shipman thanked the task force and said the findings will inform ongoing changes.

Higher Education Policy Antisemitism on Campus

Interior secretary warns on California energy reliance

8h Dev 1 Analysis Data

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum told Fox News Digital that California’s reliance on foreign oil poses a national security risk and cited declining in‑state refining capacity, while DOE’s Ben Dietderich presented new department data showing average residential electricity prices around $0.18/kWh in blue states versus $0.11 in red states. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, speaking Tuesday in Monroe County, Pa., linked higher costs to restrictive policies and noted a recent ANWR tour as the administration moves to expand U.S. resource development.

Energy Policy California Energy

U.S. to name two-star general to command Gaza ISF as Trump readies Board of Peace

8h Dev 10 Analysis Data

The Trump administration plans to appoint an American two‑star general to command a U.S.‑led Gaza International Stabilization Force as part of a second phase of a U.N.-backed ceasefire plan that would also install a technocratic Palestinian government overseen by a “Board of Peace” led by President Trump, with former U.N. envoy Nickolay Mladenov floated as the Board’s on‑the‑ground representative. Germany and Italy have been invited to join the board and countries including Egypt, Turkey, Indonesia, Pakistan and Azerbaijan have been mentioned as potential ISF contributors, but participation, command structure, rules of engagement and Hamas disarmament remain unresolved, and officials say year‑end timelines hinge on outstanding issues such as returning the last hostage’s remains and addressing ongoing aid and security shortfalls.

Israel–Hamas Ceasefire Israel–Hamas War Gaza Humanitarian Aid

3rd Circuit upholds NJ assisted-suicide residency rule

9h Dev 2 Data

The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld that New Jersey’s medically assisted‑suicide law applies only to state residents, in an opinion by Judge Stephanos Bibas. The decision came amid a Delaware plaintiff’s death from stage‑four lymphoma after arguments, and on‑record disappointment from plaintiff Dr. Paul Bryman. The court noted New Jersey’s statute requires a six‑month prognosis confirmed by two physicians, two patient requests with witness‑limit rules, self‑administration, and a discussion of palliative care, and Delaware’s own aid‑in‑dying law takes effect Jan. 1.

Assisted Suicide Laws Courts and Legal Rulings Assisted Suicide and End-of-Life Laws

Google’s Pichai warns on AI bubble risk

10h 1 Analysis

Google CEO Sundar Pichai told the BBC that some 'irrationality' exists in today’s AI boom and that if an AI bubble bursts 'no company is going to be immune, including us.' The remarks come as Alphabet shares hit an all‑time high and trade higher premarket, with Pichai likening AI’s long‑term impact to the internet despite near‑term excesses.

Economy/Markets Technology

Mexico approves up to 50% China tariffs

10h Breaking 1 Data

Mexico’s Congress passed legislation Wednesday authorizing tariffs of up to 50% on imports from countries without trade agreements, notably China, with the Senate voting 76–5 (35 abstentions) after lower-house approval earlier in the day. President Claudia Sheinbaum, who proposed the move in September, is expected to sign it for January implementation, impacting goods such as auto parts, textiles, plastics, and metals as Mexico seeks to bolster domestic manufacturing and curb its trade deficit with China.

Tariffs and Trade Policy U.S.–Mexico Relations

Lawsuit challenges Trump photo on park pass

10h Dev 1

The Center for Biological Diversity filed a federal lawsuit in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 10 alleging the Interior Department violated the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act by replacing the National Park Foundation’s contest‑winning Glacier National Park image on the 2026 America the Beautiful pass with a closeup of President Donald Trump. The suit also claims Interior unlawfully created new Resident and Nonresident pass types and relegated the Glacier photo to a nonresident pass, and seeks to block use of Trump’s image on the pass.

Department of the Interior National Park Service

Do Kwon to be sentenced in U.S. fraud case

11h Dev 1 Data

Terraform Labs co‑founder Do Kwon is set to be sentenced in Manhattan federal court on Thursday after pleading guilty in August to fraud tied to the 2022 collapse of TerraUSD and Luna, which erased roughly $40 billion in value. Prosecutors seek 12 years in prison and $19 million forfeiture—below guidelines near 25 years—citing his plea, pending Korean prosecution, and time served in Montenegro, while Kwon’s lawyers ask for no more than five years.

Cryptocurrency Courts and Legal

Paramount launches $108B hostile bid for WBD to counter Netflix deal

12h Breaking 3 Data

Paramount and Skydance have launched a $108.4 billion hostile tender offer for Warner Bros. Discovery to upend an existing, roughly $83 billion Netflix agreement — Paramount says WBD “never engaged meaningfully” with six prior proposals, while WBD’s board has called Netflix’s bid superior and has 10 days to respond. Paramount has secured at least $24 billion from outside backers including Saudi PIF, QIA, L’imad Holding and Affinity Partners (who will forgo board seats), and both transactions face regulatory review amid political scrutiny — including calls from former President Trump that CNN be sold — that could affect approval.

Warner Bros. Discovery Antitrust and Regulation Media Mergers & Acquisitions

Trump says CNN should be sold as part of any WBD deal

12h Dev 3 Data

From the White House, Donald Trump said any deal to buy Warner Bros. Discovery should include CNN — either sold with the company or separately — calling current CNN leadership “corrupt or incompetent” and saying he will “probably be involved.” His comments raise potential regulatory and political hurdles for Netflix’s roughly $83 billion offer, which targets the studio and HBO only, while Paramount has launched a hostile roughly $108 billion bid for the entire company including CNN. WBD’s board has about 10 days to respond to Paramount’s tender; Paramount disclosed financing partners (Saudi PIF, Abu Dhabi’s L’imad, Qatar Investment Authority and Jared Kushner’s Affinity Partners) providing at least $24 billion while forgoing board seats, and shareholders and regulators are weighing legal and risk implications for competing bids.

Antitrust and Media Mergers Donald Trump Media Mergers and Antitrust

Interior designates 760-acre California border defense zone under Navy control for 3 years

12h Dev 3 Data

The Interior Department has designated roughly 760 acres in San Diego and Imperial counties — running from the western boundary of the Otay Mountain Wilderness to about one mile west of the California–Arizona line — as a border-defense zone to be placed under U.S. Navy control for three years, citing a 1907 Theodore Roosevelt reservation and saying the move will strengthen security and curb environmental damage from heavy illegal crossings. The action, which Interior Secretary Doug Burgum framed as closing security gaps and advancing border priorities, is part of a broader series of militarized zones created since April and follows a January national‑emergency order authorizing military detention of immigrants, prompting civil‑liberties warnings that it could effectively turn the military into border police and raise constitutional concerns.

Border Security Immigration & Demographic Change U.S.–Mexico Border

Trump launches ‘Gold Card’ immigration pathway

14h Breaking 2 Data

Former President Trump on Wednesday launched the "Gold Card" immigration initiative with applications going live, offering U.S. visas starting at $1 million per person and a $15,000 vetting fee, with companies able to obtain multiple cards while each card covers only one individual. Administration officials and Trump framed the program as replacing the EB‑5 visa (without mentioning EB‑5’s job‑creation requirements or caps), with Trump calling it “basically, it’s a green card but much better,” and saying all funds would flow to the U.S. Treasury as officials argued the program will raise incomes of green‑card holders.

Immigration & Demographic Change Donald Trump

House passes NDAA that excludes AI state‑preemption and CBDC ban

14h Dev 7 Analysis Data

The House narrowly passed a roughly $900–901 billion NDAA (final passage 312–112, rule 215–211) that leaves in place state‑level AI rules by excluding an AI state‑preemption provision and omits a ban on a U.S. central bank digital currency, while adding China‑targeted tech measures (outbound investment screening, bans on some China-linked biotech contracts), an Artificial Intelligence Futures Steering Committee, a troop pay raise and other items. Conservatives revolted over the CBDC omission and other matters, forcing Speaker Mike Johnson to win last‑minute promises to pursue a CBDC ban and other floor votes to secure enough GOP support, though several hardline Republicans still opposed the bill.

Artificial Intelligence Policy Central Bank Digital Currency House Republican Caucus

ICE says Rep. Adelita Grijalva tried to impede Tucson raid; 46 arrests, 2 agents injured

15h Dev 3 Data

ICE says Rep. Adelita Grijalva joined a "rioting crowd" and attempted to impede a Dec. 5 Tucson ICE operation that resulted in 46 arrests in a multi‑year probe into labor exploitation, tax and immigration violations and drew "over 100 agitators" who assaulted officers and slashed tires. Grijalva says she was pushed aside and pepper‑sprayed after identifying herself while seeking information, but DHS officials say she was only near someone who was sprayed; two HSI Special Response Team operators were injured and the episode prompted calls for a congressional investigation.

Law Enforcement and Protests Congressional Oversight Immigration Enforcement

War Dept probes Sen. Kelly over ‘illegal orders’ video

15h Dev 2 Data

The Pentagon has opened a review of Sen. Mark Kelly over a video in which he appears to give "illegal orders" after President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed an inquiry. Kelly has shrugged off threats of a court-martial, saying his upbringing made him "resilient," while Senate Armed Services Committee Democrats warned Navy Secretary John Phelan that the probe risks politicizing the military justice system, calling it a "brazen abuse of power" and noting Phelan was to brief Hegseth by Dec. 10.

Donald Trump Civil-Military Relations Sen. Mark Kelly

DOJ charges Ukrainian in Russian cyberattacks; $10M reward

15h Dev 1 Data

The Justice Department arraigned Ukrainian national Victoria Eduardovna Dubranova, 33, on a second federal indictment this week, alleging she aided Russian‑backed groups CyberArmyofRussia_Reborn (CARR) and NoName057(16) in dozens of cyberattacks on U.S. critical infrastructure. The State Department’s Rewards for Justice program offered up to $10 million for information on others tied to NoName057(16), as officials detailed attacks that damaged U.S. water systems and a 2024 breach at a Los Angeles meat plant; Dubranova pleaded not guilty and faces trials in February and April 2026.

Russian Cyber Operations DOJ Indictments

ICE 'Metro Surge' in Twin Cities draws Walz letter alleging citizen arrests; governor urges DHS to reassess tactics

17h Dev 10 Analysis Data

ICE launched "Operation Metro Surge" in the Minneapolis–St. Paul area targeting individuals with deportation orders; DHS announced at least 19 arrests over multiple rounds, including several Somali nationals and other noncitizens charged with serious crimes. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz sent a letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem alleging that some U.S. citizens were detained during the sweeps and urging a reassessment of tactics, clearer standards on filming and warrants, and civil‑rights training, while local leaders including Mayor Jacob Frey moved to restrict use of city property for enforcement and organize legal pushback.

ICE Operations Donald Trump Department of Homeland Security

Musk signals 2026 SpaceX IPO plan

17h Dev 1 Data

Elon Musk indicated Wednesday on X that reports of SpaceX preparing to go public are accurate, pointing to a possible 2026 initial public offering. Axios previously reported SpaceX told investors it is planning the IPO, which could be the largest ever, surpassing Saudi Aramco’s $25.6 billion 2019 listing.

SpaceX Capital Markets and IPOs

Massachusetts confirms first quartz-linked silicosis case

17h Dev 1 Data

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health said Tuesday it has confirmed the state’s first case of silicosis tied to engineered stone (quartz) countertop fabrication, involving a 40-year-old man who spent 14 years cutting, grinding and polishing stone. DPH warned the incurable, progressive lung disease is preventable and urged employers to adopt controls such as wet cutting and ventilation, noting engineered stone can contain over 90% silica and carries higher risk than many natural stones; the agency expects more cases given long disease latency.

Occupational Health Workplace Safety

Thanedar introduces impeachment measures against Trump and Hegseth

17h Dev 2 Data

Rep. Shri Thanedar has formally introduced articles of impeachment against both President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Democratic leaders say the efforts are unlikely to succeed and risk distracting from the party’s priorities.

Pete Hegseth U.S. House of Representatives Congress and Impeachment

Michigan Democrat files impeachment of HHS chief RFK Jr.

17h Dev 2 Data

Michigan Democrat Rep. Haley Stevens filed an impeachment resolution against HHS chief Robert F. Kennedy Jr., making him the latest Trump administration official targeted by Democrats. The move drew no backing from House Democratic leadership — Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries declined to endorse and committee leaders said they were not involved — and prompted criticism from fellow Democrats who called it distracting or premature without a formal investigation and noted impeachment is unlikely to succeed in a Republican‑held House.

Congressional Oversight and Impeachment HHS and Public Health Congress and Impeachment

ByHeart infant botulism outbreak rises to 51 cases across 19 states; all hospitalized

18h Dev TC 8 Data

The outbreak of infant botulism linked to ByHeart powdered infant formula has grown to 51 confirmed or suspected cases in 19 states (illness onset Aug. 9–Nov. 19, with CDC’s expanded case definition identifying additional cases back to Dec. 2023–July 2025); all 51 infants were hospitalized and no deaths have been reported. ByHeart has recalled all products after C. botulinum type A was detected in some samples, and FDA, CDC and state agencies are continuing inspections and testing while urging caregivers to stop using and dispose of recalled formula and seek medical care if infants show symptoms.

Public Safety Health

Officials: ICE targeting Somalis in Twin Cities; MPD won’t assist

18h Dev TC 15 Data

City officials say roughly 100 federal agents have been deployed to the Twin Cities in an ICE "Operation Metro Surge" reportedly targeting the Somali community, leading to about a dozen arrests (some with criminal histories), lawsuits from detainees and widespread fear and business impacts; Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara and other local leaders have said they do not collaborate with ICE on immigration enforcement. ICE actions — including agents questioning residents, using pepper spray during confrontations in Cedar‑Riverside, and reports of U.S. citizens briefly detained — prompted Gov. Tim Walz to ask DHS Secretary Kristi Noem for a review, even as President Trump publicly criticized Somali immigrants.

Public Safety Local Government Legal

St. Paul testing alternate-side winter parking rules

18h TC 1 Data

St. Paul Public Works Director Sean Kershaw explained why residential plowing doesn’t start immediately under the current snow‑emergency system and said the city will test two alternate‑side parking models beginning in January to let plows reach neighborhood streets sooner. The city’s existing phases begin at 9 p.m. (Night Plow) and 8 a.m. the next day (Day Plow) to give drivers time to clear main routes and residents time to move cars; the pilot, running January through mid‑April with weekly side‑switching, keeps one side clear to speed residential plowing and was lightly tested last winter.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government Weather

Frederick Green arraigned, held without bail in Jets CB Kris Boyd shooting

18h Dev 4 Data

Frederick Green, 20, of the Bronx, was arraigned late Tuesday on attempted murder and other charges in the shooting of New York Jets cornerback Kris Boyd and is being held without bail. Prosecutors say surveillance shows Green masking up, removing a gun from a backpack and firing two shots that struck Boyd in the abdomen — a bullet lodged in his pulmonary artery and moved into a lung — before Green fled to Buffalo, hid at a girlfriend’s apartment, attempted to jump from a window as U.S. Marshals closed in and ultimately surrendered; police say Boyd and his friends were unarmed and the confrontation began after others mocked their clothing.

New York City Crime New York Jets Kris Boyd

Cincinnati OKs $8.1M 2020 protest settlement

18h Dev 1 Data

The Cincinnati City Council approved an $8.1 million settlement on Dec. 10, 2025 with 479 non‑violent protesters arrested during May 30–June 8, 2020 racial‑justice demonstrations, resolving claims of police brutality, wrongful arrests, inhumane jail conditions and unlawful property seizures. Hamilton County, whose sheriff and jail were also named, will contribute $65,000, with the city paying the remainder; all curfew misdemeanor charges were previously dismissed amid conflicting court rulings.

Police Accountability & Civil Rights DEI and Race

Maplewood woman killed in apartment shooting

18h Breaking TC 1 Data

Maplewood police are investigating a fatal shooting at an apartment complex on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, where a woman died and a suspect was found injured. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and additional details about the suspect’s condition and any arrests were not immediately released.

Public Safety Legal

House passes $901B NDAA; FBI candidate-notice, border troop authority included

18h Dev 10 Data

The House on Thursday passed a roughly $901 billion National Defense Authorization Act, 312–112, moving the bill to the Senate; the package includes a provision requiring the FBI to notify congressional leaders when it opens counterintelligence probes into federal candidates, codifies several Trump-era border authorities (including active-duty troop use at the U.S.–Mexico border) and imposes troop-floor restrictions for Europe and South Korea while providing roughly a 3.8–4% enlisted pay raise. The sprawling bill also targets China with tech bans and an outbound investment-screening regime, funds $400 million per year for Ukraine, withholds 25% of certain Pentagon travel funds until unedited maritime‑strike footage is released, and contains a provision to grant the Lumbee Tribe full federal recognition.

FBI Oversight NDAA U.S.–China Competition

Colorado man charged in ex-partner’s murder

18h Dev 1 Data

Westminster, Colorado police arrested Thomas Perales after the body of 37-year-old Annette Marie Valdez, the mother of his children, was found in a trash can on Dec. 4, 2025. The Adams County District Attorney charged Perales with first-degree murder, tampering with a deceased human body, domestic violence, and violating a protection order; an affidavit cited by 9NEWS says he admitted to killing her and moving the body, and he had been released from jail about a week earlier.

Domestic Violence Colorado Crime and Courts

Metro Transit adds Route 345 to MSP/MOA

18h Breaking TC 1 Data

Metro Transit introduced Route 345 on Dec. 10, 2025, creating a new connection from the Woodbury area to Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport and the Mall of America. The service provides a direct east‑metro link to two major regional hubs, expanding transit options for commuters and travelers.

Transit & Infrastructure

House advances repeal of Trump union order

19h Dev 1 Data

The House voted 222–200 on Wednesday to advance debate on Rep. Jared Golden’s Protect America’s Workforce Act, a discharge‑petition bill to repeal President Trump’s March 2025 executive order curbing federal worker unions. Thirteen Republicans joined all voting Democrats; a rule vote and potential final passage are slated for Thursday before the measure would head to the Senate.

Congress Federal Workforce Unions

Venezuela drills as USS Ford arrives; UK and Colombia curb intel sharing over U.S. boat strikes

19h Dev 16 Analysis Data

Venezuela launched a nationwide military exercise mobilizing roughly 200,000 troops, air and naval assets as the U.S. carrier USS Gerald R. Ford strike group arrived in the Caribbean amid a stepped‑up U.S. campaign of maritime missile strikes on suspected drug-smuggling boats that U.S. officials defend as counter‑drug operations. The strikes — reported to include dozens of attacks and scores killed — have provoked regional and allied pushback, with Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro halting intelligence sharing with the U.S. and the U.K. reportedly suspending some sharing, while France, Mexico and others have criticized the operations even as President Trump says he might talk with Nicolás Maduro but keeps military options on the table.

U.S. Defense Policy Latin America Security Venezuela and U.S. Military

Realtor.com: 2026 home prices to dip

19h 1 Analysis Data

Realtor.com’s new 2026 outlook projects home prices will fall in 22 of the 100 largest U.S. metros, led by declines in several Florida markets, while mortgage rates ease to an average 6.3% and existing-home sales edge up to 4.13 million. The forecast, described by senior economist Jake Krimmel as the most balanced market since the pandemic, sees modest gains elsewhere (median +4% across the other 78 large metros) as inventory improves and demand normalizes from COVID-era peaks.

Housing Market Mortgage Rates

NTSB warns NDAA weakens post‑crash safety

19h Dev 1 Data

NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy warned on Dec. 10 that a provision in the National Defense Authorization Act would undercut post‑crash safety improvements by exempting some military aircraft from ADS‑B position broadcasting, a requirement DoD agreed to after January’s deadly Black Hawk–airliner collision near DCA that killed 67. In a letter to Armed Services leaders, Homendy said the language would recreate the conditions before the crash; a bipartisan group of Senate Commerce leaders urged adopting the ROTOR Act instead to mandate ADS‑B with limited exemptions.

Aviation Safety Congress/NDAA

DOJ seeks dismissal in FIFA TV-rights case

19h Dev 2

The Justice Department has asked U.S. District Judge Pamela Chen to dismiss charges against Hernan López and Full Play Group in the FIFA TV‑rights case, with EDNY U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella saying the dismissal is sought “in the interests of justice.” The move follows a convoluted 2024 procedural history — jury convictions, Judge Chen’s subsequent acquittal and an appeals court’s reinstatement of the convictions — and the Solicitor General has urged the Supreme Court to hear López’s appeal, reverse the reinstatement and remand so Chen can dismiss the case.

FIFA Corruption Department of Justice FIFA Corruption Case

DHS: Omaha QuikTrip shooter entered U.S. as unaccompanied minor, had violent criminal record

19h Dev 4 Data

DHS identified the Omaha gas‑station shooter as Salvadoran national Juan Ayala‑Ramos (previously reported as Juan Melgar‑Ayala), saying he entered the United States as an unaccompanied minor in June 2007 and that an immigration judge administratively closed his removal case that year. Officials said Ayala‑Ramos had a prior criminal history — including a 2019 assault‑by‑strangulation charge and 2021 arrests for burglary and possession of a stolen firearm — and that he allegedly wounded a 61‑year‑old civilian and injured four Omaha officers before being fatally shot by police; investigators are probing how he obtained the handgun and family members reported mental‑health issues.

Law Enforcement and Public Safety Immigration Enforcement Public Safety and Policing

NJ ex-teacher 'Santa' charged in child-abuse materials

19h Dev 1 Data

Mercer County Prosecutor Janetta D. Marbrey said Monday that Mark Paulino, 64, a retired Hamilton Township elementary teacher who had been working as a Santa at public and private events, was arrested and charged with distribution and possession of child sexual abuse material after ICAC investigators traced illicit uploads to him. Detectives received a Dec. 4 tip from the New Jersey State Police ICAC Unit, executed a search warrant at Paulino’s home Friday with Hamilton Police SWAT, seized evidence, and filed a motion to detain him pending trial.

Child Sexual Exploitation Cases New Jersey Law Enforcement

Andersen to buy 1,000‑employee Bright Wood

19h Breaking TC 1 Data

Bayport-based Andersen Corp. said Dec. 10 it will acquire Bright Wood Corp., a Pacific Northwest window‑component manufacturer with about 1,000 employees that has been family‑owned for more than six decades. Andersen also plans to bring in a former competitor’s CEO to lead the operation, signaling integration and leadership changes tied to the deal.

Business & Economy

Edina man charged after runway DWI at Flying Cloud

20h Breaking TC 1

Hennepin County prosecutors charged Joshua Dayn Hoekstra, 52, after Eden Prairie police say he drove a silver Jeep onto active runways at Flying Cloud Airport on Nov. 23, 2025. Officers boxed in the vehicle; Hoekstra showed signs of impairment, blew about 0.13 on a breath test, and was cited for DWI, careless driving, and not having a driver’s license in possession after telling police he’d flown back on a private jet from the Vikings–Packers game.

Public Safety Legal

House passes NDAA with Europe and South Korea troop floors

20h Dev 4 Data

The House passed a roughly $900–901 billion National Defense Authorization Act that bars cutting U.S. forces in Europe below 76,000 without a security assessment and certification to Congress and constrains reductions in South Korea below 28,500 unless deterrence won’t be weakened, allies are consulted, and a regional impact assessment is completed. The bill preserves the NATO SACEUR post, advances measures targeting China including tech and investment restrictions, provides $400 million in Ukraine military assistance for each of FY2026 and FY2027, repeals the 1991 and 2002 Iraq AUMFs, lifts Caesar Act sanctions on Syria, and includes a 4% enlisted pay raise.

NDAA U.S. Congress Ukraine War Support

Lawmakers urge crackdown on veteran claim ‘sharks’

20h Dev 1 Data

A group of 43 members of Congress (42 Democrats, 1 Republican) sent a letter on Dec. 10, 2025 to the VA, FTC and CFPB urging enforcement action against unaccredited companies charging veterans to file VA disability claims, citing federal rules that require free, VA‑accredited assistance. The move follows NPR reporting that Florida‑based Trajector Medical used a robo‑dialer to access VA claim updates via the veterans’ hotline and billed veterans — sometimes when it wasn’t responsible for the benefit increase — a practice the company denies is unlawful.

Veterans Affairs Consumer Protection

DC Guard shooting suspect pleads not guilty, held without bond in D.C. Superior Court

20h Dev 57 Data

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29‑year‑old Afghan national accused of ambushing National Guard members near Farragut Square, pleaded not guilty during a remote D.C. Superior Court appearance from a hospital bed and was ordered held without bond by Magistrate Judge Renee Raymond. Prosecutors say he faces an upgraded indictment including first‑degree murder, multiple counts of assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence — the attack killed Spc. Sarah Beckstrom and left SSgt. Andrew Wolfe hospitalized in serious condition, and the government has signaled it may seek the death penalty.

District of Columbia Shooting Washington, D.C. Shooting Washington, D.C. Security

DHS says 2.5M illegal immigrants left U.S.

20h Dev 1 Data

DHS told Fox News that more than 2.5 million illegal immigrants have left the U.S. over the past year, including about 605,000 deportations and roughly 1.9 million self-departures since Jan. 20. Officials credited a new CBP 'Home' app and incentive program offering a complimentary flight and $1,000 exit bonus, and said the first 'Project Homecoming' flight carried 64 people who accepted the offer, while noting a recently launched 'Worst of the Worst' dashboard highlighting arrests of criminal offenders.

Immigration & Demographic Change DHS Enforcement

House GOP to bring multiple health bills next week; no consensus on ACA subsidy extension

20h Dev 57 Analysis

House GOP leaders say they will bring a slate of health‑care bills to the floor next week aimed at lowering premiums and advancing Republican reforms. However, there's no consensus on extending enhanced ACA premium tax credits: moderates and bipartisan coalitions are pushing one‑ or two‑year extensions (and even filing discharge petitions), the White House and some senators have floated alternative HSA-style or two‑year plans, while conservatives and Speaker Mike Johnson oppose a clean extension, leaving the outcome uncertain amid ongoing Senate negotiations and Democratic demands.

Health U.S. Health Policy Politics

Bipartisan House bill seeks to extend ACA subsidies

20h Dev 2

A bipartisan group of House moderates led by Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick filed a discharge petition to force a floor vote to temporarily extend enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies, initially drawing six Republican signatures (including Fitzpatrick, Mike Lawler, Don Bacon and Ryan Mackenzie) and two Democrats, with supporters expecting more. Rep. Don Bacon said leadership likely won’t bless the effort but argued a short-term extension with reforms is needed, and the filing followed tense floor maneuvers in which some moderates briefly withheld votes on an unrelated bill.

Affordable Care Act U.S. Congress Affordable Care Act Subsidies

Cracker Barrel settles Maryland disability case

20h Dev 1

Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown and the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights announced a settlement with Cracker Barrel over allegations that 11 special education students from Dr. James Craik Elementary School were mistreated during a December 2024 field trip meal at a Waldorf location. Each student will receive $7,500 and a meal refund, Cracker Barrel will donate $17,500 to the school’s technology programs for students with developmental disabilities and $9,000 to Maryland’s Civil Rights Enforcement Fund, and the chain agreed to revise and strengthen its policies.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Disability Rights

St. Paul council delays vote on police force review tied to ICE operation

21h Dev TC 7

The St. Paul City Council postponed a planned Dec. 3 vote to launch a review of St. Paul Police Department actions during the Nov. 25 ICE operation and ensuing protest, delaying formal action while moving toward asking the Minnesota POST Board to conduct a "thorough investigation." Council members and community groups — which have alleged SPPD policy violations including use of pepper spray, pepper balls, rubber bullets and other chemical/less‑lethal munitions and are pressing for release of body‑camera video — sought a review scope that would also audit public costs and examine adherence to the city's separation ordinance.

Legal Local Government Public Safety

NASA loses contact with Mars orbiter MAVEN

21h Dev 1

NASA said it lost contact with its MAVEN spacecraft over the weekend after the orbiter reemerged from behind Mars, noting it had been operating normally before the occultation. Engineers have opened an investigation; MAVEN, launched in 2013 and at Mars since 2014, studies the planet’s upper atmosphere and also relays communications for the Curiosity and Perseverance rovers, while MRO and Mars Odyssey remain active.

NASA Mars Exploration

Charlotte transit stabbing suspect denied bond

21h Dev 2

Mecklenburg County officials set no bond for suspect Noe Solarzano in the Charlotte light-rail stabbing and indicated he will be released into ICE custody; Solarzano faces charges including attempted first-degree murder, assault with a deadly weapon causing serious injury, breaking and entering a motor vehicle, carrying a concealed weapon, and intoxicated/disruptive behavior. Victim Kenyon Dobie remains seriously injured with a chest tube draining blood from his lungs, a GoFundMe for his recovery has raised nearly $18,000, and the attack has heightened residents’ safety concerns and drawn political commentary from President Trump and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.

Crime and Public Transportation Immigration Enforcement Public Transport Safety

Arkansas mom, two children found shot; feds join probe

21h Dev 1

The Sebastian County Sheriff's Office says Charity Beallis, 40, and her two children were found fatally shot during a Dec. 3 welfare check at their home in Bonanza, Arkansas, and that the U.S. Secret Service and Homeland Security Investigations are assisting. Investigators said no suspect has been named, 12 search warrants are in progress (six served), and court records show the killings occurred a day after a final divorce hearing; the husband, Randall Beallis, previously pled to a misdemeanor battery charge and is not a suspect as of Friday, according to local reports.

Domestic Violence and Homicide Arkansas Law Enforcement

CBP publishes ESTA screening expansion in Federal Register; 60-day comment opens

21h Dev 4

Customs and Border Protection published a proposal in the Federal Register on Dec. 10 to expand screening for Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) travelers from roughly 40 countries and opened a 60‑day public comment period. The plan — pending OMB review and citing a January executive order on enhanced vetting — would make ESTA mobile‑only and require applicants to submit five years of social media history, five years of phone numbers, IP addresses and photo metadata, ten years of email addresses, biometric data (face, fingerprint, DNA, iris), immediate family members' personal information, and a selfie captured via a CBP app; critics warn it could dampen tourism ahead of events like the 2026 World Cup.

Department of Homeland Security Homeland Security & Immigration Digital Privacy & Surveillance

South Korea to mandate labels on AI-made ads

21h Dev 1

South Korea will require advertisers to label AI-generated ads and make platforms responsible for compliance, officials said after a Dec. 10 policy meeting chaired by Prime Minister Kim Min-seok. The government will revise laws so the rules and tougher enforcement—24-hour reviews, emergency takedowns, and punitive damages up to five times losses—take effect in early 2026 amid a surge of deepfake-driven promotions on YouTube, Facebook and other services.

AI & Deepfake Regulation Global Tech Policy

Fed cuts rate to 3.5%–3.75% amid three dissents; NY Fed to buy $40B in T‑bills

22h Dev 6 Data

The Federal Reserve cut the target federal funds rate by 25 basis points to 3.50%–3.75%—its third straight cut—despite three dissents (Austan Goolsbee and Jeff Schmid wanted to hold, while Stephen Miran favored a larger half‑point cut) and released projections penciling in just one more cut in 2026 with 2026 GDP growth seen at about 2.3% and PCE inflation around 2.4%. To keep reserves ample the New York Fed will buy roughly $40 billion of short‑term Treasury bills starting Friday, and markets reacted with modest stock gains while Treasury yields eased; Chair Powell will hold a press briefing this afternoon.

Monetary Policy Inflation and Interest Rates U.S. Economy

US Marshals offer $5,000 reward in manhunt for missing Virginia high school coach accused in child porn case

22h Dev 9

U.S. Marshals are offering up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of Travis L. Turner, a missing Virginia high school football coach wanted on 10 warrants — five counts of possession of child pornography and five counts of using a computer to solicit a minor — as the USMS and FBI assist Virginia State Police in a multi‑jurisdiction search they say he "may be armed" and who was last seen Nov. 20 walking into wooded terrain with a firearm and reportedly left without essentials. Family attorney Adrian Collins and Turner's wife have denied the allegations and urged he return to face them; Wise County Public Schools has placed him on paid administrative leave, removed his staff profile and barred him from school property, and a judge has since sealed related court records.

Virginia Education Law Enforcement Child Exploitation Cases

DHS buys six Boeing 737s for deportations

22h Dev 1

The Department of Homeland Security confirmed Wednesday it signed a deal to acquire six Boeing 737 aircraft for immigration removal flights, a move officials say will streamline logistics and save an estimated $279 million. The contract, reported as signed with Virginia-based Daedalus Aviation, is funded by the July omnibus 'One Big Beautiful Bill,' which set aside $170 billion for border and immigration efforts.

Immigration & Demographic Change Department of Homeland Security

Lavrov warns retaliation over EU troops, assets

22h Dev 1

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned Wednesday that Moscow will retaliate if European governments deploy troops to Ukraine or seize frozen Russian assets, speaking before the Federation Council, according to Reuters. He also praised President Trump’s approach to a potential settlement while noting current U.S. sanctions on Russia are being increased, and his comments followed European pushback to Trump’s criticism of EU leaders.

Russia–Europe Tensions Ukraine War & U.S. Diplomacy

FCC, state AGs plan China-linked tech MOU

22h Dev 1

The FCC and the attorneys general of Nebraska, Tennessee, Texas and West Virginia plan to sign a memorandum of understanding to share information and coordinate enforcement against high‑risk, China‑linked communications technology, officials confirmed after a Wednesday meeting in Washington. A draft MOU viewed by Fox News details joint intelligence sharing, consumer protection actions, and closing enforcement gaps, with finalization expected in the coming weeks.

FCC and Telecom Security China and National Security

Trump administration will expand travel ban to more than 30 countries, DHS chief says

22h Dev 5 Analysis Data

After meeting with President Trump, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem publicly urged a "full travel ban" and said the administration will expand the current policy covering 19 countries to around—or "over"—30, though she declined to name the countries or give a start date and said the president is still evaluating additions. DHS said it will announce the list soon, and Noem said the expansion would target countries lacking stable governments or the ability to vet travelers, building on a June proclamation that fully barred 12 nations and placed seven under heightened restrictions.

Trump Administration Homeland Security Immigration Policy

NYC mayor‑elect Mamdani keeps Commissioner Jessica Tisch to lead NYPD

22h Dev 42 Analysis

Mayor‑elect Zohran Mamdani announced he will retain NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, praising her for cracking down on corruption and driving down crime and saying they share goals of public safety and stability. Tisch said she is confident she can lead under his administration, though the decision — which reassures business leaders — highlights differences on bail reform and policing priorities and has drawn concern from some progressive allies.

Policing and Public Safety Government New York City Politics

Florida AG sues Starbucks over DEI quotas

23h Dev 1 Data

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced Wednesday he is suing Starbucks, alleging the company’s diversity goals function as illegal race-based hiring and promotion quotas and that executive bonuses were tied to specific DEI targets. The complaint cites Starbucks’ 2020 targets (40% people of color in retail/distribution jobs and 30% in corporate by 2025), alleges pay disparities favoring certain races, and seeks $10,000 for each instance of discrimination affecting Florida residents—potentially totaling tens of millions.

Starbucks Disparate Impact Law Corporate Hiring Policies

Trump presses Mexico to stop sewage flows

23h Dev 1 Data

President Donald Trump on Wednesday demanded that Mexico address raw sewage flowing into the U.S. via the Tijuana River, citing risks to communities in Southern California and military readiness at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said the U.S. is working with Mexico under a July 2025 MOU that funds wastewater projects, adding full implementation and Mexico‑side upgrades slated for 2026–2027 are critical.

U.S.–Mexico Border Environment Environmental Health and Infrastructure

Trump backs Hegseth after IG faults Signal use; job appears safe

23h Dev 13 Analysis Data

The Pentagon inspector general found that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth violated Department of Defense rules by using his personal Signal app to share sensitive, near‑real‑time operational details — including targets, timing and aircraft — tied to U.S. strikes against Houthi militants, conduct the IG said could have endangered U.S. personnel and the mission. The classified report was delivered to Congress with a redacted public version released Dec. 4; while the IG did not conclude Hegseth had improperly declassified the material and Pentagon spokespeople called the review a "total exoneration," President Trump publicly backed Hegseth and his job appears safe for now.

Defense Oversight Defense and National Security Information Security

Mamdani adds Mysonne Linen and Tamika Mallory to NYC public safety transition team

23h Dev 3 Analysis Data

Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani named Mysonne Linen and Tamika Mallory to his NYC public safety and criminal justice transition team; Linen — a rapper-turned-activist and leader with Until Freedom — was convicted in two 1999 Bronx taxi-robbery cases and served seven years, while Mallory is a controversial activist who has previously said “one day we can abolish police.” Mamdani defended the appointments as part of a 400-plus-member, 17-committee transition intended to incorporate diverse experiences, even as groups including Jews Fight Back criticized the selections.

Zohran Mamdani New York City Politics NYC Public Safety

Egypt, Iran protest Seattle World Cup Pride plans

23h Dev 1 Data

The Egyptian Football Association and Iran’s sports minister objected to Pride‑weekend programming around their June 26, 2026 World Cup match in Seattle, with Egypt sending a formal letter asking FIFA to avoid activities that could “provoke cultural and religious sensitivities” and Iran saying it complained directly to FIFA. Seattle’s local organizing committee said it will proceed with Pride‑related community programming outside the stadium; FIFA did not immediately comment.

2026 World Cup Seattle LGBTQ+ and International Sports

Medal of Honor soldier identified after 83 years

23h Dev 1 Data

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced Wednesday it has identified the remains of U.S. Army Capt. Willibald Bianchi of New Ulm, Minnesota, a Medal of Honor recipient who was captured in 1942 on the Bataan Peninsula and later died when a Japanese transport carrying POWs was sunk. His remains, recovered in 1946 in Taiwan and interred as unknown at Honolulu’s Punchbowl, were identified using anthropological analysis and DNA testing after DPAA disinterred related unknowns in 2022–2023; he will be buried in Minnesota in May.

Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency World War II

Senate GOP clears first vote on 97 Trump nominees; final confirmation expected next week

1d Dev 2 Data

Senate Republicans on Wednesday passed the first procedural hurdle to advance a package of 97 Trump nominees, setting up final confirmation votes expected next week; the slate includes Anthony D'Esposito for Labor Department inspector general and NLRB picks James Murphy and Scott Mayer. The group was repackaged after Sen. Michael Bennet objected last week to an earlier bundle that erroneously included a Cabinet-level (Level 1) nominee, and if confirmed these votes would push GOP approvals of Trump’s second-term nominees to more than 400 in the first year.

U.S. Senate Federal Appointments Senate Confirmations

Judge Breyer blocks Trump’s federal control of California Guard, orders return to Newsom

1d Dev 5 Data

U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer issued a preliminary injunction blocking the Trump administration’s federal deployment of California National Guard troops in Los Angeles and ordered they be returned to Gov. Gavin Newsom, though he stayed the order until Monday to allow a DOJ appeal; the deployment had federalized roughly 4,000 Guards in June and only about 100 remain in the Los Angeles area. Breyer sharply rebuked the administration’s claim that extensions of federalized Guard service require no further review—warning it would create a “national police force” and upend federalism—while the White House defended its authority and the Justice Department said the troops were needed to protect federal personnel and property.

California Courts National Guard Federalization National Guard and Federal Authority

Supreme Court lets Texas use new House map for 2026, potentially adding up to 5 GOP seats

1d Breaking 6 Data

The Supreme Court issued an unsigned emergency stay allowing Texas to use a mid‑decade, GOP‑drawn congressional map for now — after Justice Alito had briefly reinstated it — saying delays could interfere with candidate qualifying ahead of March 2026 primaries. A three‑judge lower court had found likely racial discrimination (with a Trump‑appointed judge writing there was “substantial evidence”), but the high court’s decision, criticized in Justice Kagan’s dissent as effectively locking in the map, preserves a plan pushed by former President Trump that could net Republicans up to five additional House seats and has already prompted political fallout, including Rep. Lloyd Doggett’s decision not to seek reelection.

Texas Redistricting Supreme Court of the United States Redistricting

Rep. Lloyd Doggett won’t seek reelection

1d Dev 1

Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D‑Texas) said Wednesday he will not run in 2026 after the U.S. Supreme Court upheld Texas’s GOP‑drawn congressional map that slices his Austin‑area district (TX‑37). Doggett warned Republicans may have overreached by basing lines on last cycle’s results and could face backlash as Latino voting patterns shift and immigration salience changes.

Texas Redistricting U.S. House 2026

ICE pepper-sprays crowd in Minneapolis Cedar-Riverside

1d Dev TC 1 Data

During an immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis’ Cedar-Riverside neighborhood this week, ICE agents pepper-sprayed protesters who were blocking their vehicles while agents checked residents’ IDs, according to AP video and local reporting. Council Member Jamal Osman says agents detained a 20-year-old U.S. citizen, transported him to a Bloomington detention center, and released him without transportation during a winter storm.

Public Safety Legal

Coast Guard’s Munro makes largest at-sea cocaine bust in 18+ years in Eastern Pacific

1d Dev 3 Data

The Coast Guard cutter Munro seized about 20,000 pounds of cocaine in the Eastern Pacific — which the service called the largest at-sea interdiction in more than 18 years — after a Coast Guard helicopter crew disabled a non‑compliant go‑fast vessel, video released by the service shows. The action was part of Operation Pacific Viper, which the Coast Guard says has seized over 150,000 pounds of cocaine (an estimated value exceeding $1.1 billion) since August, with JIATF‑South handling detection and the Coast Guard conducting interdictions and seizures. The service did not disclose the fate of people seen aboard the interdicted vessel, and the operation comes amid broader scrutiny over recent lethal maritime strikes.

U.S. Coast Guard Drug Trafficking and Interdiction Drug Interdiction & Trafficking

Canada unveils $1.2B research talent program

1d Dev 1 Data

Canada announced a $1.2 billion, 12-year initiative to recruit over 1,000 leading researchers in critical fields, alongside an expedited permanent residency pathway for doctors with at least one year of Canadian experience. The move comes as the U.S. now charges a $100,000 fee for new H-1B applicants abroad, a policy critics say could worsen staffing gaps in sectors like health care and academia.

Immigration & Demographic Change Science & Higher Education Policy

Treasury chief: Blue states blocking OBBBA tax relief

1d Dev 1 Data

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Wednesday accused Colorado, New York, Illinois and Washington, D.C., of refusing to adopt key provisions of President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, arguing their residents are being denied tax cuts like “No Tax on Tips,” “No Tax on Overtime,” and a new seniors’ Social Security deduction. Calling the stance “obstructionism,” Bessent urged immediate conformity, said Treasury is ready to help, and warned the department “will not stand idly by” as non‑conformity drags on the recovery.

Tax Policy Donald Trump Administration

Navy launches Rapid Capabilities Office, funds AI Ship OS

1d Dev 1 Data

Navy Secretary John Phelan on Tuesday in Washington announced the creation of a Rapid Capabilities Office to speed weapons and shipbuilding programs and revealed a $448 million award to deploy an AI-enabled logistics and manufacturing platform, 'Ship OS,' across U.S. shipyards. Phelan said the Navy must 'act like we’re at war' to overcome submarine backlogs and shipyard bottlenecks as China scales AI-driven production; Ship OS will start in the submarine industrial base and expand to carriers and other platforms.

U.S. Navy Defense Industrial Base U.S.–China Military Competition

N.C. governor reverses Medicaid rate cuts

1d Dev 1 Data

North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein and DHHS Sec. Dr. Dev Sangvai said Dec. 10 the state will restore Medicaid reimbursement rates—reversing 3%–10% cuts that began Oct. 1—after court rulings and lawsuits blocked portions of the reductions. The move includes retroactive reimbursements to providers, but a $319 million shortfall remains amid a stalled state budget and failed GOP-led efforts to pass supplemental funding.

Medicaid & State Budgets North Carolina Politics

UN issues sweeping global environment assessment

1d Dev 1 Data

The U.N. Environment Programme’s Global Environment Outlook, produced this week by nearly 300 scientists from 83 countries, calls for a joint approach to climate change, biodiversity loss, land degradation, and pollution, urging rapid transitions away from fossil fuels, sustainable agriculture, and major reductions in waste and pollution. The report warns emissions hit a new high in 2024 and projects warming could reach 2.4°C by 2100 without systemic change, noting over 1 million species face extinction and up to 40% of global land is degraded; the article also notes the U.S. government did not attend the U.N. Environment Assembly.

Climate Policy United Nations

NDAA may grant Lumbee federal recognition

1d Dev 1 Data

The House’s defense policy bill slated for a vote this week includes language to grant the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina full federal recognition, with the Senate potentially acting as soon as next week. Recognition would provide access to federal funding, the Indian Health Service and land‑into‑trust authority; President Trump championed the effort, Interior prepared a plan in April, and some tribes oppose using the NDAA as the vehicle while Lumbee leaders urge Congress to finalize their status.

Native American Policy Congress & Defense Bill

Australia’s under‑16 social media ban faces High Court challenge as major apps comply

1d Dev 4 Data

Australia's Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act — passed in November 2024 and enforced from December 10, 2025 — bars under‑16s from major platforms and requires companies to take “reasonable steps” such as multi‑layer age‑assurance (including government IDs or AI estimation), removal of existing under‑16 accounts and measures to prevent re‑registration (including VPN detection), with fines up to AU$49.5 million (~US$32–33M); eSafety has notified ten platforms, more than 200,000 TikTok accounts have been deactivated, and a preliminary compliance update is expected before Christmas. The policy, framed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as protecting youth mental health, is already facing legal challenge — the High Court has accepted a case brought by two 15‑year‑olds, with a hearing possible as early as February.

Social Media and Youth Technology Regulation Social Media Regulation

DA reviews UCSB freshman’s fatal dorm fall

1d Dev 1

UC Santa Barbara police concluded that 18-year-old freshman Elizabeth “Liz” Hamel’s Feb. 14, 2025 fall from a San Rafael Residence Hall walkway was accidental and forwarded findings to the Santa Barbara County District Attorney, which says the case remains under review. The family, represented by attorney Tyrone Maho and a private investigator, disputes the conclusion and cites unanswered questions, while UCPD says it conducted an exhaustive probe, interviewed a person of interest, and coordinated with the sheriff and DA.

Campus Safety Criminal Investigations

Six more states adopt SNAP junk‑food bans

1d Breaking 1 Data

USDA approved new waivers Wednesday for Hawaii, Missouri, North Dakota, South Carolina, Virginia and Tennessee to restrict the use of SNAP benefits for items like soda, energy drinks, certain juices, prepared desserts and candy, with most rules taking effect Jan. 1. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins framed the move as part of the Trump administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” agenda, and HHS official Mehmet Oz said states adopting bans will receive extra funds, bringing the total number of participating states to 18.

SNAP & Nutrition Policy USDA

Minneapolis, St. Paul declare snow emergencies

1d Breaking TC 1 Data

Minneapolis and St. Paul declared snow emergencies Wednesday night, Dec. 10, following a winter storm, triggering citywide parking restrictions, towing enforcement, and scheduled plowing. Minneapolis’ three‑day rules begin 9 p.m. Wednesday with no parking on Snow Emergency routes, then even‑side non‑routes and parkways Thursday, and odd‑side non‑routes Friday; St. Paul starts Night Plow routes at 9 p.m. Wednesday, switches to Day Plow routes at 8 a.m. Thursday, and its emergency lasts 96 hours to Sunday at 9 p.m.

Transit & Infrastructure Weather

ICE steps up Afghan arrests after D.C. attack

1d Dev 2 Data

Immigration lawyers say ICE arrests of Afghan nationals have increased since the D.C. National Guard attack, and the White House on Dec. 1 said it is "actively reexamining" all Afghan nationals who entered the U.S. during the Biden administration. Reporting cites a Sacramento case of an Afghan father arrested upon check‑in with ICE despite consistent compliance, notes at least one arrest referenced prior domestic‑violence charges (AP could not independently verify all detainees’ immigration status), and advocacy group #AfghanEvac says the D.C. shooting suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, had been granted asylum earlier this year.

Immigration & Demographic Change Afghan Evacuees Immigration Enforcement

CBP officer indicted over Illinois hotel assaults

1d Dev 2 Data

A U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer has been indicted on charges alleging he sexually assaulted and robbed four women at hotels in Schaumburg and Naperville, Illinois, during multiple incidents in 2022. Prosecutors say he used his badge, service weapon and later a knife to force entry, demand money and coerce sexual acts — with one victim, who worked in the sex industry, reportedly robbed multiple times — and forensic analysis tied him to the hotels through travel records and Google Maps searches.

Civil Rights Prosecutions Department of Homeland Security Law Enforcement Misconduct

Education Dept settlement would end SAVE plan

1d Dev 2 Data

A proposed Education Department settlement would end the Biden-era SAVE repayment plan and force millions of borrowers — about 7 million enrolled, including roughly 4.6 million with $0 monthly payments — to resume paying or move to other plans. The department, which estimates SAVE would have cost taxpayers more than $342 billion over 10 years and cites a February 2025 court ruling that found the plan unlawful, says borrowers should use the Federal Student Aid Loan Simulator, and experts expect many may have to exit SAVE forbearance as early as next year, sooner than the July 1, 2028 OBBBA transition date.

Student Loans and Higher Education Policy Student Loans & Debt Relief U.S. Department of Education

Zelenskyy seeks U.S. backing for Ukraine elections

1d Dev 1 Data

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine could hold national elections within 60–90 days if the U.S. and European partners provide security guarantees and if Parliament enacts a legal framework to allow voting under martial law. He has asked lawmakers from his party to draft proposals to permit elections during wartime, a shift that follows President Trump’s public criticism that Ukraine risks ceasing to be a democracy without a vote.

Ukraine Politics U.S.–Ukraine Relations

USPS returns 800 troop care packages; probe underway

1d Dev 1 Data

Nonprofit Boxes to Boots says more than 800 of 1,100 holiday care packages mailed in mid-November to deployed U.S. troops were returned by the U.S. Postal Service for insufficient customs descriptions, with over 100 boxes missing and about 300 delivered. USPS said it is investigating and that packages may be returned when customs forms are incomplete or lack required detail; the nonprofit is asking President Donald Trump and War Secretary Pete Hegseth to intervene so the parcels arrive before Christmas.

USPS and Postal Operations U.S. Military & Veterans

AP: Gaza aid far below ceasefire target

1d 1 Data

An AP analysis of Israeli COGAT data finds Gaza received an average of 459 aid trucks per day from Oct. 12 to Dec. 7, well short of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire’s 600-per-day pledge. UN figures show only 6,545 trucks offloaded in that period (~113/day), while OCHA cites security, clearance, and routing obstacles; Israel says aid was temporarily halted over alleged Hamas violations, as both sides accuse each other of breaching ceasefire terms.

Gaza Ceasefire and Aid Israel–Hamas War

Eileen Higgins wins Miami mayor, first woman; first Democratic win in nearly 30 years

1d Dev 5 Data

Democrat Eileen Higgins defeated Trump‑backed Emilio González in the Miami mayoral runoff, winning roughly 59% to 41% (about a 19‑point margin) in a race AP called Dec. 9, becoming the city’s first woman mayor and the first Democrat elected in nearly 30 years after González conceded. Higgins, backed by national Democrats including Pete Buttigieg, Sen. Ruben Gallego and Rahm Emanuel and praised by DNC Chair Ken Martin as a warning to Republicans, pledged to use city land for affordable housing, launch a full spending review, expand the City Commission from five to nine members and push back on what she called the Trump administration’s “inhumane and cruel” immigration actions.

Local Elections Miami Mayoral Election Municipal Elections

Collins, Moreno unveil 2‑year ACA subsidy plan as Senate nears Thursday vote on 3‑year extension

1d Dev 171 Analysis Data

Sen. Susan Collins and Sen. Bernie Moreno unveiled a GOP proposal to extend enhanced ACA premium tax credits for two years with a $200,000 income cap, a $25 minimum monthly premium to end zero‑premium plans and added verification/anti‑fraud guardrails. The announcement sets up dueling Senate votes Thursday against Democrats’ clean three‑year extension — backed by Schumer but expected to face steep hurdles — as Republicans also press alternative fixes (including HSA proposals and Hyde/eligibility riders) amid sharp partisan and intra‑party divisions.

Health Care Policy Politics Budget

Man killed by snowplow at MSP parking lot

1d Breaking TC 1 Data

A man was fatally struck by a snowplow Wednesday in a catering company parking lot on Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport property. Authorities responded to the scene and opened an investigation; additional details about the victim and driver were not immediately released.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Florida judge unseals Epstein grand‑jury records; New York judges now grant parallel unsealing orders

1d Dev 3 Data

A Florida judge, Rodney Smith, ordered the unsealing of grand‑jury transcripts from the abandoned 2006–07 Jeffrey Epstein probe, finding the Epstein Files Transparency Act overrides grand‑jury secrecy and noting the law requires DOJ, FBI and federal prosecutors to release records by Dec. 19. Following that ruling, SDNY judges — including Richard Berman — have moved to unseal grand‑jury and investigative materials from Epstein’s 2019 federal case and voluminous Maxwell transcripts from 2021, set a near‑term deadline for the DOJ’s filings, and said they will rule quickly while redacting victims’ identities.

Jeffrey Epstein Investigation Courts and Justice Department Jeffrey Epstein Files

Winter storm: 255 crashes, 375 vehicles off road; Hwy. 52 pileup snarls Inver Grove Heights

1d Breaking TC 8 Data

A late‑Tuesday-to‑Wednesday winter storm — bringing generally 3–5 inches in the Twin Cities (locally higher in the northern metro and 5–8+ inches across central/northern Minnesota), a rain‑to‑snow changeover and gusts up to 40–45 mph — produced blowing snow and low visibility with many roads snow/ice covered into Wednesday morning. Minnesota State Patrol reported 255 crashes and 375 vehicles off the road (including 13 jackknifed semis, 19 injury crashes and one fatality), and a multi‑vehicle pileup on Hwy. 52 at the Concord Blvd exit in Inver Grove Heights snarled traffic.

Public Safety Weather Transit & Infrastructure

DOJ curbs LGBTQ protections in PREA audits

1d Dev 1 Analysis Data

An internal DOJ memo obtained by NPR instructs PREA auditors to stop evaluating detention facilities on standards tailored to protect transgender, intersex and gender‑nonconforming people, pending revisions to align with President Trump’s Jan. 20 executive order recognizing only two sexes. The change applies to federal and state prisons and jails, juvenile facilities, and immigration detention, and includes halting review of gender‑identity‑based housing decisions and whether sexual assaults were motivated by gender‑identity bias.

Department of Justice Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA)

Cotton proposes easing egg rules to lower prices

1d Dev 1

Sen. Tom Cotton plans to introduce the Lowering Egg Prices Act of 2025 to require the FDA and USDA to revise egg-handling rules so surplus broiler hatching eggs can be diverted into the food supply as pasteurized liquid egg products. Cotton says the change would boost supply and reduce costs amid affordability concerns and avian flu disruptions; USDA data show average prices for large white eggs fell to about $1.91 per dozen in early December.

Congress and Food Regulation Agriculture and Food Prices

Feds sue MPS over teacher layoff protections

1d Breaking TC 1 Data

The Trump administration filed a federal lawsuit on Dec. 10 against Minneapolis Public Schools, challenging contract provisions that protect teachers of color in layoffs and recalls. The complaint alleges the layoff protections constitute unlawful race‑based discrimination under federal law and asks a judge to block enforcement and declare the provisions illegal.

Legal Education

Rep. Mace files bill to rename D.C. plaza for Charlie Kirk

1d Dev 1 Data

Rep. Nancy Mace (R‑S.C.) said she is introducing a House bill to rename the Washington, D.C. area formerly designated “Black Lives Matter Plaza” after slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk, three months after his assassination at a Utah campus event. Mace acknowledged the bill may not get a floor vote but vowed to push it as part of efforts in Congress to memorialize Kirk; the D.C. site was initially named in 2020 and the designation was reversed by the city earlier this year.

U.S. Congress Charlie Kirk

Several Twin Cities suburbs declare snow emergencies

1d Dev TC 1 Data

Belle Plaine, Brooklyn Park, Eden Prairie, New Hope and West St. Paul declared snow emergencies Wednesday morning after several inches of snow fell across the metro. As of 6:40 a.m., Minneapolis and St. Paul had not declared snow emergencies; residents are advised to follow their city’s posted parking rules to avoid tickets and towing.

Weather Transit & Infrastructure

San Diego approves $30M settlement in teen police shooting

1d Dev 2 Data

San Diego City Council approved a $30 million settlement to the family of 16-year-old Konoa Wilson over a police-involved shooting, a payout larger than the $27 million Minneapolis paid George Floyd’s family. Mayor Todd Gloria called the case "heartbreaking" and pledged stronger officer tools and training, while Officer Daniel Gold remains on the force in an administrative assignment as investigators review the incident; the lawsuit alleges Gold fired without warning, SDPD says a gun was later found under Wilson’s clothing though it was not displayed before the shooting, and the family’s attorney said the settlement offers "some semblance of accountability" but not closure.

Police Accountability Police Accountability and Settlements Civil Litigation

Apalachee High shooting suspect appears in court

1d Dev 1 Data

Colt Gray, accused in the Sept. 4, 2024 Apalachee High School shooting that killed four and wounded nine in Winder, Georgia, appeared before Barrow County Superior Court Judge Nicholas Primm on Dec. 9, 2025. Defense attorney Aisha Broderick said Gray’s medical evaluation is still underway and expected by late February, with the next hearing set for March 18, 2026; Gray faces 55 counts including four felony murders, while his father faces 29 counts tied to the case.

School Shootings Courts and Legal

New audio shows off-duty pilot cockpit struggle

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Newly released cockpit and ATC audio captures the chaotic mid‑flight incident in which an off‑duty Alaska Airlines pilot allegedly tried to shut down the engines, prompting the crew to declare a "threat level four" and call for an emergency landing. The recordings and communications describe the off‑duty pilot, identified as Emerson, being restrained and handcuffed in a rear jump seat while repeatedly saying "I'm not OK," and controllers coordinated checks with flight attendants and requested law enforcement on arrival.

Criminal Justice Aviation Safety Airlines and FAA

Judge denies release of ex‑Colorado clerk Tina Peters

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A federal judge denied the release of former Colorado clerk Tina Peters, who was convicted in a 2020 election scheme. Her attorney, Peter Ticktin, wrote to former President Trump alleging Peters was threatened and violently attacked by inmates on three occasions, repeatedly denied placement in a "safe unit," and was interviewed by the FBI and DOJ before being moved to another unit, and urged Trump to pardon her despite her state conviction — a pardon Gov. Jared Polis has said he will not grant.

Election Security Courts and Judiciary Donald Trump

Study: Oral diabetes pill burns fat, spares muscle

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Swedish researchers at Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University report in Cell that a novel oral beta-2 agonist improved glucose control and fat burning while preserving muscle in animals, and showed favorable safety/tolerability in a small human study of 48 healthy adults and 25 people with type 2 diabetes. Acting via muscle metabolism rather than appetite suppression like GLP-1s, the drug could be used alone or alongside GLP-1 therapies, though experts stress larger, longer trials are needed to confirm efficacy and long‑term safety.

Medical Research Diabetes and Obesity Drugs

Treasury data undercut Trump tariff tax claim

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Treasury and budget data show tariff revenue is far too small to substitute for federal income taxes — FY2025 tariffs are about $195 billion versus roughly $2.7 trillion in annual individual income taxes, and the Tax Foundation estimates current tariff policy would raise about $2.1 trillion over 10 years versus roughly $32 trillion in individual income taxes, calling full replacement "mechanically impossible." Analysts also note a $2,000 "tariff dividend" would cost $300–$600 billion (more than current tariff receipts), a tariff-funded tax cut would mainly benefit high earners, and any such shift would require Congress to rewrite the tax code and faces pending legal challenges.

Tariffs and Trade Tax Policy U.S. Federal Budget and Taxes

Trump vows call to halt Thailand–Cambodia clashes as evacuations pass 500,000

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President Donald Trump said he would "make a phone call" to try to halt renewed fighting between Thailand and Cambodia as evacuations topped half a million people — roughly 400,000 from Thailand and more than 127,000 from Cambodia — and hundreds of schools closed. The clashes, which both sides blame on the other and have spread beyond earlier temple flashpoints, have involved Thai airstrikes and navy operations and Cambodian rocket fire, leaving at least a dozen dead and dozens wounded while U.S. officials urged both governments to honor prior ceasefire commitments including removal of heavy weapons and demining.

Thailand–Cambodia Border Clashes Southeast Asia Security U.S. Foreign Policy

National Archives releases Amelia Earhart records

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The National Archives released a second batch of Amelia Earhart records on Nov. 25, publishing over 3,700 pages (56 PDFs) that include a 1937 memo of Secretary of State Cordell Hull’s conversation with Japanese Ambassador Hiroshi Saito detailing Japan’s search role, a July 20, 1937 FDR press exchange justifying search costs, and a letter from Eleanor Roosevelt securing Itasca radio logs. The documents provide new primary-source detail on U.S.–Japan cooperation, federal cost rationale, and contemporaneous communications tied to the 1937 search.

Amelia Earhart National Archives and Records Administration

Rep. Massie files bill to exit NATO

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Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) introduced H.R. 6508 to withdraw the United States from NATO, directing the president to give Article 13 notice within 30 days of enactment and blocking U.S. contributions to NATO’s common-funded budgets. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) said she is co-sponsoring, and the measure mirrors a Senate companion from Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah).

U.S. Congress NATO

House petition seeks ban on lawmakers' stocks

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Rep. Anna Paulina Luna filed a discharge petition last week to force a House vote on a measure that would ban members of Congress from owning individual stocks, a step beyond current disclosure rules under the STOCK Act. The petition has 16 signatures so far but needs 218 to reach the floor, and comes amid renewed scrutiny of member trades around President Trump’s tariff announcements; Speaker Mike Johnson said such a ban would deter people from running for Congress.

Congressional Ethics U.S. Congress

Education Dept recalls OCR attorneys amid backlog

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The U.S. Department of Education is temporarily recalling Office for Civil Rights staff it had placed on paid administrative leave after a March reduction‑in‑force was blocked by the courts, instructing them to report to regional offices on Monday, Dec. 15. Press secretary Julie Hartman said the agency will "utilize all employees" while it continues to appeal litigation over the cuts, as a source told NPR OCR now faces about 25,000 pending complaints, including roughly 7,000 open investigations.

Department of Education Civil Rights Enforcement

Texas flags 2,724 voters via SAVE checks

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NPR reports Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson ran the state’s ~18 million voter registrations through DHS’s overhauled SAVE system in October, flagging 2,724 'potential noncitizens' (~0.015%) and prompting counties to send 30‑day proof‑of‑citizenship notices with cancellation upon non‑response. The piece documents at least one naturalized U.S. citizen wrongly flagged and removed and notes the Trump administration has linked SAVE to Social Security (since May) and State Department passport data, with about 47 million voter records queried nationally.

Elections Administration Department of Homeland Security

USCIS adds vetting center, deepens re-reviews amid 19-country adjudication pause

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USCIS has instituted a nationwide pause on adjudications for nationals of 19 “countries of concern,” directing officers to stop final decisions on all case types—including green cards and naturalizations—and to conduct a “full scale, rigorous reexamination” of approved benefit requests (including entrants on or after Jan. 20, 2021) with potential interviews, re-interviews, case prioritization within 90 days, and referrals to enforcement. Director Joseph Edlow has launched a new vetting center in Atlanta, expanded hiring for enforcement-focused roles amid agency workforce changes, and framed the measures as necessary to maximize vetting for national security after the D.C. shooting, with the pause’s duration left to his discretion.

Immigration Enforcement Homeland Security USCIS

USCIS pauses all asylum decisions nationwide

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USCIS has paused asylum decisions nationwide and halted processing of many immigration applications as part of a broader shift toward enforcement, instituting enhanced vetting and re‑reviews that agency leaders say are intended to tighten scrutiny. Officials and attorneys warn the move will reopen prior cases and slow adjudications for applicants from across the system, making already broad processing times — which can range roughly from a few weeks to several years — even harder to predict.

Asylum and Refugees Department of Homeland Security U.S. Immigration Policy

USCIS launches vetting center to recheck approvals

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USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said last week the agency created a vetting center to conduct interviews and re-review already approved immigration applications, expanding post–Nov. 26 measures that paused adjudications for nationals of 19 countries and halted many asylum decisions. The White House also said it will re-review all Biden-era refugee approvals, while at least 1,300 staff accepted a 'Fork in the Road' resignation offer as the agency shifts toward enforcement.

U.S. Immigration Policy Department of Homeland Security

Snowstorm hits Twin Cities: roads snow‑covered; early totals and school delays

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A fast‑moving winter storm left many Twin Cities roads snow‑covered early Wednesday, with MnDOT reporting dozens of plows working and dozens of schools closed or opening late. Early totals ranged from about 2.8 inches in Chanhassen to 6.9 inches in Cambridge (MSP Airport ~3.4"), and winter storm warnings/advisories remain in effect with gusty winds and heavy snow rates possible overnight, prompting NWS to advise avoiding nonessential travel.

Education Transit & Infrastructure Weather

Florida designates CAIR, Muslim Brotherhood as terrorist groups

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Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has designated the Council on American–Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Muslim Brotherhood as foreign terrorist organizations in an executive order that bars state agencies from awarding contracts, employment, or funds to CAIR, the Muslim Brotherhood, or groups deemed to materially support them. CAIR-Florida says it will sue, calling the designation unconstitutional, while DeSantis said he welcomes the lawsuit and expects related legislation in January; the action follows a similar Texas proclamation being challenged in court and echoes a recent Trump executive order initiating federal consideration of Muslim Brotherhood chapters.

Florida Government Civil Rights and Counterterrorism Civil Liberties and Terrorism Designations

3 arrested after 7 Providence College overdoses

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Providence Police arrested three suspects after seven Providence College students overdosed at an off‑campus party last week on Liege Street, where first responders administered Narcan and transported victims to a hospital. A follow‑up search on Hawkins Street seized about 20 grams of fentanyl, $1,700 in cash, two rifles and three handguns including a ghost gun; Angel Williams, 33, and Patrick Patterson, 32, face drug and gun charges and are held without bail, while Kimsheree Simoneau, 33, was charged with possession of a ghost gun and released on $10,000 bond.

Campus Public Safety Opioids/Fentanyl

Former Education Secretary Rod Paige dies at 92

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Rod Paige, the first African American U.S. education secretary and a key architect of the No Child Left Behind law, died Tuesday at age 92, former President George W. Bush announced. Paige led the Education Department from 2001 to 2005, implementing nationwide testing and accountability provisions modeled on his Houston reforms; no cause of death was provided.

Rod Paige U.S. Education Policy

Trump allows Nvidia H200 sales to China with 25% U.S. cut; Beijing signals limits, market reaction muted

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President Trump said he will allow Nvidia to sell its H200 AI chips to China with the U.S. taking a 25% cut of sales, saying he informed Xi Jinping and received a positive response, and that the "same approach" would apply to AMD and Intel while the Commerce Department finalizes details — a move Nvidia called a "thoughtful balance." Beijing signaled it may still limit access by requiring buyers to justify why domestic chips are insufficient, and the market reaction was muted (Nvidia shares dipped about 0.3%) as analysts and executives remain cautious about actual China orders, with prior black‑market diversions of banned Nvidia chips underscoring ongoing enforcement challenges; H200s are powerful but still a generation behind Nvidia’s newest Blackwell chips.

Donald Trump Semiconductors and Export Controls U.S. Export Controls

Alleged LAFD fireboat failures imperil Port of LA

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A CBS Los Angeles investigation reports extensive maintenance and capability issues across Los Angeles Fire Department fireboats safeguarding the Port of Los Angeles, citing internal documents and an LAFD report to the fire commission last week that the reserve apparatus out‑of‑service rate ‘consistently exceeds 95%.’ A firefighter whistleblower says Fireboat 1 has been down for repairs since January and Fireboat 2 lists 19 problems, including a nonfunctional engine and crane, raising concerns about the port’s readiness after a recent container‑ship blaze and recalling a 2014 wharf fire.

Los Angeles Fire Department Ports and Critical Infrastructure

Israel holds 155‑sq‑mi Syrian zone as U.S. urges accommodation with new Damascus government

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Israel has carved out and continues to hold a roughly 155‑square‑mile area inside southern Syria, conducting arrests, weapons seizures and frequent airstrikes — including a summer strike on Damascus’s military headquarters and operations Israel said aimed to protect the Druze. The Trump administration is pushing for a quick accommodation with Syria’s new government and has publicly urged Israel–Syria dialogue while privately warning against uncoordinated strikes; Netanyahu says a deal is possible only if Damascus respects a buffer zone Israel deems vital to its security.

Israel–Syria Relations U.S. Middle East Policy Middle East

East Wing reduced to rubble as Trump touts expanded 90,000‑sq‑ft White House ballroom

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Demolition of the East Wing and Jacqueline Kennedy Garden is underway, with photos showing rubble at the site as construction that began in October advances toward a planned 90,000‑sq‑ft ballroom with a 999‑person capacity. The project, now pegged at $300 million and said by the White House to be privately funded (a donor list names 37 contributors), has added Shalom Baranes Associates as lead architect while McCrery Architects remains a consultant, and plans are expected to be submitted to the National Capital Planning Commission this month.

Donald Trump White House Renovations U.S. Politics

CDC: Michigan transplant recipient dies of rabies

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The CDC said a Michigan man who received a kidney in Ohio in December 2024 died in February from transplant-associated rabies, tracing the donor’s infection to a skunk scratch in Idaho that likely involved a silver‑haired bat variant. Three corneal tissue recipients had grafts removed, received rabies treatment and remain asymptomatic, while officials notified 370 potential contacts and recommended post‑exposure procedures for 46. The CDC noted rabies is not part of routine donor testing due to its rarity and complexity, calling this the fourth documented U.S. transplant-transmitted rabies case since 1978.

CDC and Public Health Organ Transplantation and Rabies

Army gynecologist charged for secret patient videos

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The U.S. Army’s Office of Special Trial Counsel charged Maj. Blaine McGraw, an OB-GYN at Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center at Fort Hood, with secretly recording at least 44 women during intimate exams between Jan. 1 and Dec. 1, 2025. The charges include 54 specifications of indecent visual recording, conduct unbecoming, willful disobedience, and making a false official statement; McGraw was suspended Oct. 17, ordered into pretrial confinement Dec. 2, and is being held at the Bell County Jail as a preliminary hearing is pending. A related civil lawsuit filed under the pseudonym Jane Doe alleges McGraw exploited his position and inappropriately touched and recorded a patient during multiple appointments.

U.S. Army Medical Misconduct and Privacy

Michigan parent files Title IX complaint over trans athlete

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Sean Lechner filed a Title IX complaint on Dec. 5, 2025 with the U.S. Department of Education, the Michigan Department of Education, the Michigan High School Athletic Association, and Monroe Public Schools, alleging Monroe High School volleyball players had to share a locker room with and compete against a transgender athlete from Ann Arbor Skyline. Michigan’s education department said it received the complaint and is reviewing it, while the MHSAA confirmed it issued one transgender eligibility waiver statewide for the 2025–26 fall season but declined to identify the school or sport, citing student privacy.

Title IX and Transgender Athletics K-12 Education Policy

AFL files EEOC complaint over 49ers DEI hiring

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America First Legal filed a civil-rights complaint Tuesday with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission alleging the San Francisco 49ers use unlawful race- and sex-based hiring practices under Title VII. The filing cites demographic-targeted pipelines, race-restricted employee resource groups, and participation in minority-only coaching fellowships; Fox News Digital said the 49ers did not immediately comment. AFL previously filed a similar complaint against the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the action comes amid Trump administration executive orders targeting DEI in the private sector.

Employment Discrimination and DEI San Francisco 49ers

Florida carries out 18th execution of 2025; 19th set for Dec. 18

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Florida executed Mark Allen Geralds, 58, who was convicted in a 1989 home‑invasion killing, and he was pronounced dead at 6:15 p.m. at Florida State Prison after brief final words ("I'm sorry that I missed you... I loved you every day") as witnesses described physical reactions during the injection. The execution was Florida’s 18th of 2025—extending the state’s single‑year record and leaving Florida with the most executions of any state this year (44 nationwide so far); the state uses a three‑drug lethal‑injection protocol, and the next Florida execution is scheduled for Frank Athen Walls on Dec. 18.

Capital Punishment Death Penalty Florida Courts and Crime

Forensic analyst: Ana Walshe’s DNA found on hacksaw, hatchet and rug at Brian Walshe trial

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Massachusetts State Police DNA supervisor Saman Saleem testified that single‑source female DNA matching Ana Walshe was found on a hacksaw (blade and handle), a hatchet (head and handle), pieces of a blood‑stained rug, Tyvek suit pieces, slippers and "unknown tissue," with the hacksaw blade profile described as at least 39 million times more likely to be Ana’s than an unrelated person’s, though Saleem acknowledged DNA could be transferred between items if packed together. Prosecutors say those and other items recovered from trash bags and a Swampscott dumpster — including towels, cleaning agents, a Prada purse, boots matching Ana’s and her COVID‑19 card — support theories that Brian Walshe killed his wife amid an alleged affair and to secure sole custody or insurance proceeds, while the defense says he found Ana dead in bed and denies knowing of an affair; Walshe has pleaded guilty to misleading police and unlawfully conveying a human body and was awaiting sentencing in an unrelated art‑fraud case.

Massachusetts Brian Walshe Brian Walshe Trial

D.C. Circuit reinstates Pentagon transgender ban

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A divided U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit on Tuesday stayed a district court’s preliminary injunction, allowing the Pentagon to enforce its 2025 policy generally barring individuals with gender dysphoria from serving while the case is appealed. Judges Gregory Katsas and Neomi Rao said the district court failed to defer to military judgment on readiness, cohesion and costs, while Judge Pillard dissented, questioning the administration’s justification; the White House called the ruling a win for military readiness.

Transgender Military Policy Federal Courts

PRRI poll: Most back birthright citizenship

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The Public Religion Research Institute’s American Values Survey, released Tuesday, finds about two-thirds of Americans support preserving the 14th Amendment’s birthright citizenship, including narrow majority support among white evangelical Protestants. The poll also reports only 3 in 10 back President Trump’s overall immigration agenda and puts approval of his immigration handling at 43%, with confidence in ICE lagging across most religious groups as the Supreme Court prepares to hear a challenge to Trump’s order seeking to end birthright citizenship.

Immigration Policy Public Opinion Polls Supreme Court

Top Trump aide sold MP Materials stock after federal deal

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Government filings show Stephen Miller sold $50,000–$100,000 of MP Materials shares on Aug. 14, 2025, a month after the Trump administration announced it would take an equity stake in and purchase products from the rare-earth miner, a move that sharply boosted the stock. The New York Times reports Miller also unloaded holdings in nearly two dozen companies, including Intel and Westinghouse, which the administration later backed, while ethics experts say the timing raises conflict-of-interest concerns even though Miller wasn’t a named negotiator.

Trump Administration Ethics Critical Minerals and Industrial Policy

Defense seeks to suppress evidence in UHC CEO killing

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Luigi Mangione returned to court Dec. 2 as his defense sought to suppress contested items — including a gun and handwritten “notes to self” — in the UnitedHealthcare CEO killing case, while prosecutors point to bullets found in his bag that they say convinced police he was the suspect. A pretrial hearing day was postponed after Mangione fell ill, and no immediate ruling on the evidentiary disputes was reported as proceedings are set to resume later.

Public Safety Legal

USA Today editor-in-chief Caren Bohan exits

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USA Today confirmed that editor-in-chief Caren Bohan is leaving the Gannett-owned national newspaper after roughly one year in the role, with SVP Monica Richardson thanking her for her contributions. The New York Times reported Michael McCarter, USA Today’s opinion group editor, will serve as interim editor-in-chief. Bohan became interim EIC in September 2024 before being named permanent EIC amid broader leadership turnover at the paper.

USA Today Gannett

FDA reviewing safety of infant RSV injections

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Dec. 9 it has opened a safety review of injectable RSV drugs used for babies and toddlers, a nationwide regulatory step that could affect pediatric care in the Twin Cities. The agency did not announce a recall but said it is assessing safety reports and will issue guidance if needed.

Health Government & Regulation

GoFundMe: essentials fundraisers surged in 2025 amid affordability strain

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GoFundMe reported a surge in 2025 of fundraisers seeking basic living expenses — a 17% rise in U.S. campaigns for rent, groceries, housing and fuel — with top campaign keywords including “work,” “home,” “food,” “bill” and “care.” The company said “monthly bills” was the second-fastest growing category behind nonprofit appeals, CEO Tim Cadogan said more people are turning to the site to cover rent and immediate expenses, and related campaigns spiked sixfold during a 43‑day government shutdown that halted SNAP distributions.

Crowdfunding/GoFundMe Social Safety Net and SNAP U.S. Economy and Cost of Living

St. Paul council president eyes Ramsey County seat

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Rebecca Noecker, president of the St. Paul City Council, has officially announced she is running for the Ramsey County Board. The formal announcement came on Dec. 9, 2025, following earlier indications she planned to run.

Elections Local Government

MacKenzie Scott gives $7.1B to nonprofits in 2025

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Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott announced Tuesday that she has donated $7.1 billion to nonprofits so far in 2025 via her Yield Giving platform, bringing her total giving since 2019 to $26.3 billion. The largely unrestricted gifts include at least $783 million to HBCUs this year—with individual awards such as $63 million to Prairie View A&M, $50 million to Norfolk State and Bowie State, $25 million to Lincoln University of Pennsylvania—plus $70 million to UNCF for a collective HBCU endowment and $50 million to the Native Forward Scholars Fund.

Philanthropy and Nonprofits Higher Education and HBCUs

Mexico seeks deal after Trump’s 5% tariff threat over Rio Grande water

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President Trump again threatened a 5% tariff on Mexico via Truth Social unless Mexico immediately releases more Rio Grande water, saying he has “authorized documentation” to impose the duty — a reprise of an April confrontation when Mexico instead agreed to transfer reserves and boost flows and tariffs were not imposed. Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum said her government will seek a solution that helps the U.S. without risking Mexican people or agriculture, noting immediate delivery of 200,000 acre-feet is constrained by pipe sizes and other physical limits and that the 1944 treaty allows deferred deliveries after the extraordinary 2023–24 drought; U.S. and Mexican officials, including USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and acting foreign minister Roberto Velasco Álvarez, met Tuesday in the fifth meeting this year to try to resolve the dispute.

Agriculture and Water Policy Water Policy Trade and Tariffs

Ohio surgeon indicted; license suspended

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An Ohio grand jury indicted University of Toledo surgical resident Hassan‑James Abbas, 32, on Dec. 3 on six felony counts after authorities say he crushed abortion pills and attempted to force them into his pregnant girlfriend’s mouth as she slept. The State Medical Board of Ohio summarily suspended his license on Nov. 5, citing immediate danger to the public, and scheduled a disciplinary hearing for May 14–15, 2026; the university says he is on administrative leave and will cooperate with the board.

Abortion and Reproductive Health Law Medical Licensing and Discipline

Appeals court orders new trial for Wander Franco

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An appeals court in the Dominican Republic on Tuesday ordered a new trial for Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco, who was previously found guilty of sexually abusing a minor and received a two-year suspended sentence. The court cited flaws and omissions and reassigned the case to a new judicial panel; prosecutors, who had sought five years, said the original evidence was sufficient and expect the same result at retrial. The ruling also grants a new trial to the victim’s mother, who had been sentenced to 10 years for trafficking.

Wander Franco Courts and Legal Major League Baseball

Sutter Health ends transgender care for minors

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Sacramento-based Sutter Health will stop providing gender-affirming procedures for patients under 19 across its network effective Dec. 10, citing the need to comply with recent federal actions following President Trump’s executive order on youth transitions. A Sutter spokesperson said under-19 surgeries had already ceased and physicians are engaging families to determine care plans in light of anticipated requirements, as other systems including Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Stanford Medicine, and Kaiser Permanente have also paused aspects of minors’ gender care.

Healthcare Policy Transgender Health

Illinois enacts limits on civil immigration enforcement

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Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker on Tuesday signed HB 1312 in Chicago, creating new limits on civil immigration enforcement at courthouses, hospitals, day cares and university campuses statewide. The law restricts civil arrests around certain court proceedings, tightens privacy and law‑enforcement interaction policies at hospitals, limits status‑sharing by universities and day cares, mandates protocols for handling federal agents by early 2026, and allows individuals to sue officers over alleged rights violations. The White House and DHS criticized the measure, citing the Constitution’s Supremacy Clause, signaling potential legal conflict with federal enforcement.

State Immigration Laws Illinois Politics

Student killed in fight at NC high school

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Forsyth County Sheriff Bobby Kimbrough Jr. said a student died after an altercation between two students at North Forsyth High School in Winston-Salem, N.C., shortly after 11 a.m. on Dec. 9. Officials said there is no ongoing threat, withheld identities due to the active investigation, urged the public not to share incident videos, and announced the school will be closed to students Wednesday with crisis teams available for staff.

School Safety and Violence North Carolina

Oregon teens settle free speech suit with OSAA

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Former Oregon high school athletes Alexa Anderson and Reese Eckard agreed with the Oregon School Activities Association to dismiss their federal free‑speech lawsuit on Tuesday after they stepped off a state medal podium in May to protest a transgender competitor and alleged retaliation over medals and photos. A separate Title IX lawsuit remains pending, and last month U.S. District Judge Youlee Yim You denied OSAA’s motion to strike portions of the complaint referencing other political speech the league permits.

Transgender Athletes and School Sports First Amendment and Student Speech

Supreme Court declines Llano County library case, leaving 5th Circuit ruling intact

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The Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal in the Llano County library case, leaving a 5th Circuit ruling in place that allows local officials to remove books deemed objectionable from public libraries. Plaintiffs and librarian Carolyn Foote warned the denial will embolden wider removals — a reversal of a district judge’s order to restore titles such as Caste and They Called Themselves the K.K.K. — and the 5th Circuit’s opinion, which said “No one is banning” books, now carries precedential weight across Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi.

Supreme Court First Amendment and Libraries Library Book Bans

Steve Simon to seek fourth term as Secretary of State

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Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon announced on Dec. 9, 2025, that he will run for a fourth term in 2026. The statewide office administers elections and business filings, directly affecting Minneapolis–Saint Paul voters and local governments.

Elections Local Government

FBI adds ex-TV producer to Most Wanted for $15M fraud

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The FBI said Dec. 5 it added Mary Carole McDonnell, 73, the former CEO of Burbank-based Bellum Entertainment, to its Most Wanted list in a federal fraud case filed in Santa Ana, Calif. McDonnell, believed to be in Dubai, was indicted in 2018 for allegedly posing as an heiress tied to McDonnell Douglas and claiming a $28 million trust to secure a $14.7 million bank loan, with total losses estimated over $15 million.

FBI Most Wanted White-collar crime

Ukraine hits Russian ‘shadow fleet’ tankers abroad

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Ukraine’s SBU and Navy used “Sea Baby” naval drones to strike sanctioned oil tankers Kairos and Virat in the Black Sea in late November, part of a campaign against Russia’s sanction‑evading “shadow fleet,” Ukrainian sources told CBS News. The Kairos ran aground Dec. 5 off Ahtopol, Bulgaria after a Turkish tug detached in Bulgarian waters, prompting Bulgarian Navy airlifts, while separate late‑November explosions damaged the tanker Mersin off Senegal, whose crew was rescued and which still holds about 30,000 tons of diesel.

Russia–Ukraine War Maritime Security and Sanctions

Supreme Court hears GOP bid to end party spending caps

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The Supreme Court heard a GOP‑backed challenge to federal limits on coordinated party expenditures brought by then‑Senate candidate JD Vance, then‑Rep. Steve Chabot and the NRSC/NRCC, which in the 2023–24 cycle cap coordinated party spending at roughly $61,800–$123,000 for House races and $123,600–$3.7 million for Senate races. Justices Thomas, Alito and Kavanaugh signaled support for striking the limits, with Kavanaugh saying finance rules have weakened parties relative to outside groups, Chief Justice Roberts calling the distinction between coordinated spending and direct contributions a “fiction,” and Justice Sotomayor warning that removing caps could enable corruption and circumvention of contribution limits. The Republican‑led FEC signaled it favors striking the caps and Roman Martinez was appointed to defend the law, while Principal Deputy Solicitor General Sarah Harris rejected the view that the limits were imposed solely to prevent corruption.

Campaign Finance Supreme Court U.S. Supreme Court

Letitia James sued over school board speech threats

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Massapequa Union Free School District Board Chair Kerry Wachter and others filed a lawsuit against New York Attorney General Letitia James, alleging her office issued a guidance letter threatening to remove school board members for misgendering or for allowing public comments opposing transgender students’ access to girls’ sports and locker rooms. Plaintiffs argue the directive, cited to New York’s Dignity for All Students Act, violates the First Amendment and constitutes viewpoint discrimination at public meetings.

Letitia James Education and First Amendment

MDH: Student mental health improves; social media flagged

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The Minnesota Department of Health released the 2025 Minnesota Student Survey on Dec. 9, showing broad improvements in physical and mental health and school connectedness since 2022, while new questions highlight heavy social media use, late‑night screen time, and exposure to gun violence. The survey of more than 119,000 5th, 8th, 9th and 11th graders—used by Twin Cities schools to shape services—found 11th graders’ suicide consideration at a decade‑low, declining substance use and cyberbullying, but 90% daily social media use, over half using technology between midnight and 5 a.m. weekly, and 6% of high schoolers reporting witnessing gun violence.

Education Health

Gallup: ACA approval hits record 57%

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A new Gallup/West Health poll released Monday finds 57% of Americans now view the Affordable Care Act favorably, the highest since tracking began in 2013, with independents at 63% approval, Democrats at 91% and Republicans at 15%. The findings arrive as Congress weighs whether to extend expiring enhanced premium tax credits or redirect support via GOP-backed health savings accounts, a decision that affects roughly 24 million ACA enrollees and carries an estimated ~$30 billion annual price tag.

Affordable Care Act Public Opinion and Polling

Federal judge voids Trump's anti-wind memo

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U.S. District Judge Patti Saris (D. Mass.) on Monday struck down President Trump’s Jan. 20 directive that agencies used to stall federal permitting and leasing for wind projects, ruling it “arbitrary and capricious.” The case, brought by New York and other states alongside the Alliance for Clean Energy New York, found agencies failed to provide a reasoned explanation; however, the practical impact may hinge on other overlapping administration policies that agencies could still cite.

Federal Courts Renewable Energy Policy

U.S. sanctions RSF Colombian recruitment network

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The U.S. Treasury sanctioned four individuals and four firms on Dec. 9, alleging they recruited former Colombian soldiers to train Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces, which Washington has accused of genocide in Darfur. Treasury cited the network’s role in supporting RSF operations, including the Oct. 26 capture of El Fasher, and quoted Under Secretary John K. Hurley saying RSF brutality is deepening conflict and creating conditions for terrorism.

U.S. Sanctions Sudan Conflict

Report finds Instacart algorithm inflates prices

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Consumer Reports and the Groundwork Collaborative say Instacart has run AI-driven pricing experiments since 2022 that can make identical grocery items cost up to 23% more for some U.S. shoppers than others, based on testing with 437 volunteers at chains including Safeway and Target. Instacart told CBS News that 10 retail partners who already apply markups are conducting limited, randomized price tests, while the investigation also flagged "fictitious pricing" where different "original" prices were shown to shoppers.

Instacart AI Pricing and Consumer Protection

Nevada confirms bat fungus at Lake Mead

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The Nevada Department of Wildlife confirmed the presence of Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the fungus that causes white-nose syndrome in bats, during routine monitoring at Lake Mead National Recreation Area. NDOW said no bats showed clinical signs, called it Nevada’s first detection, and outlined steps to limit spread, including equipment sterilization, habitat protection, public education, and urging visitors to avoid abandoned mines.

Wildlife Disease National Parks and Public Lands

Assisted-living fire spurs dueling sprinkler lawsuits

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Inspector Fire Systems Inc. and Gabriel House owner Dennis Etzkorn have filed dueling lawsuits over responsibility for a faulty sprinkler system at the Massachusetts assisted-living facility where a July 2025 fire killed 10 residents. FSI says it alerted the facility in Sept. 2024 to recalled sprinkler heads, while the owner’s Dec. 8 cross-claim alleges FSI failed for years to properly inspect and even certified no deficiencies as recently as July 8, 2025, five days before the fire.

Elder Care and Facility Safety Massachusetts Courts

Nassau's Blakeman launches 2026 NY governor bid

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Long Island Republican Bruce Blakeman, the newly re‑elected Nassau County executive, launched a 2026 bid for New York governor on Fox & Friends and will challenge Rep. Elise Stefanik in the GOP primary. He’s running on a platform of prosperity and public safety and points to a county record that includes bans on transgender athletes at county facilities, creation of a volunteer law‑enforcement unit critics call a militia, directives for county detectives to assist federal immigration enforcement and a local public mask ban, while Stefanik and Gov. Kathy Hochul’s campaigns have already criticized his candidacy.

Republican Party New York Governor Race New York Governor Race 2026

MS-13 leader arrested in Nebraska

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The FBI said Tuesday it arrested Gerson Emir Cuadra Soto, 33, aka 'Fantasma,' in Grand Island, Nebraska on Monday on immigration-related charges; he is an alleged MS-13 leader linked to a July 2022 Tegucigalpa nightclub killing of former Honduran President Porfirio Lobo Sosa’s son, Said Lobo Bonilla, and three others. An unsealed affidavit says Cuadra fled Honduras after the quadruple murder, was released from jail there after $125,000 in bribes, entered the U.S. via Texas in November, and later obtained a California driver’s license; the FBI’s Houston office continues to investigate him as part of Operation Take Back America.

MS-13 Immigration Enforcement

Charlotte sheriff warns Iryna’s Law will overcrowd jail

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Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden said Monday, Dec. 8, that North Carolina’s new Iryna’s Law—tightening pretrial release for repeat and violent offenders—will increase jail populations, strain staff, and reduce magistrate and judicial discretion. The law, signed in October by Gov. Josh Stein and named for 23‑year‑old Iryna Zarutska, who was fatally stabbed on Charlotte’s light rail in August, also adds new requirements for the sheriff’s office; McFadden alleged politicians used the case for a 'political agenda' and said local judges have faced threats and safety fears since the attack.

North Carolina Criminal Justice Bail and Pretrial Policy

Pentagon taps Google Gemini for AI platform

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Axios reports the U.S. Department of Defense will use Google’s Gemini generative AI in a new military AI platform, marking a major tech partnership to support defense applications. The Dec. 9 report indicates the platform will integrate Gemini capabilities for mission support, with details on scope and implementation to follow.

Defense Technology Google

Immigration judge orders ICE to release Brazilian

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An immigration judge ordered the release of Bruna Ferreira, 33, from ICE custody on a $1,500 bond while she contests deportation, after she was arrested Nov. 12 in Revere, Massachusetts and later held in Louisiana. Ferreira’s attorney said the government stipulated she is neither a danger nor a flight risk and waived appeal, while DHS called her a 'criminal illegal alien' and alleged a battery arrest, which the attorney denies; Ferreira is a longtime Massachusetts resident, a DACA enrollee, and was in the process of applying for a green card.

Immigration Enforcement Courts and Legal

Daikin Applied building $163M Twin Cities R&D facility

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Daikin Applied Americas announced plans to build a $163 million research-and-development facility in the Twin Cities, focusing on advanced cooling needs driven by the growth of artificial intelligence and cloud computing. The project adds a major corporate investment to the metro’s tech and manufacturing ecosystem; further details on site, timeline and hiring were not disclosed in the preview.

Business & Economy Technology

Sen. Marshall unveils ACA subsidy-to-HSA plan

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Sen. Roger Marshall detailed a proposal to address expiring Affordable Care Act subsidies by extending enhanced premium tax credits for one year and then converting them to health savings accounts, positioning the plan as a bipartisan bridge. The package would require a $5 monthly minimum premium, mandate a government-issued ID to curb fraud, tighten Hyde enforcement, bar gender transition coverage on exchange plans, permanently fund cost-sharing reductions (which he estimates would save $30 billion and cut premiums ~11%), and phase down enhanced credits by 20% annually through 2032.

Affordable Care Act U.S. Congress

Missouri referendum bid filed to block mid‑cycle House map; 300k signatures submitted

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Opponents of a Trump-backed mid‑cycle U.S. House map in Missouri submitted more than 300,000 signatures — well above the roughly 110,000 needed to suspend the map — and those petitions must now be verified by local election authorities and Republican Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, who argues the referendum is unconstitutional. If validated the measure would likely appear on the November 2026 ballot unless the legislature sets an earlier date; the campaign group People Not Politicians has raised about $5 million (mostly out of state) while GOP-aligned groups have spent over $2 million, part of a broader mid‑decade redistricting battle that includes the Supreme Court’s recent approval of a new Texas map for 2026.

Redistricting and Voting Law Missouri Politics Redistricting

DOJ sues Loudoun school board over Christian students

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The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division filed a federal lawsuit on Dec. 9, 2025 against the Loudoun County School Board in Virginia, alleging it violated the constitutional rights of two Stone Bridge High School students by enforcing Policy 8040, a gender‑identity rule. DOJ says the boys were suspended 10 days and ordered into a 'Comprehensive Student Support Plan' after reporting that a female student entered the boys’ locker room and recorded audio/video; the complaint claims the policy compels acceptance of gender ideology over their religious beliefs and violates the Equal Protection Clause.

Department of Justice Education Policy

DHS cites California ambulance cost surge

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The Department of Homeland Security pointed to new California data showing Medicaid-funded ambulance reimbursement rising from $339 per transport in 2022 to $1,168 in 2024, with state requests to CMS to increase rates to $1,597 in 2025 and $1,637 in 2026. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said DHS and CMS are exploring an initiative to ensure undocumented immigrants are not receiving Medicaid benefits, while California has already moved to freeze new Medi-Cal enrollment for undocumented adults in 2026 and to charge a $30 monthly premium to those already enrolled starting July 2027.

Immigration and Medicaid Policy California Health Policy

Paramount launches $74.4B hostile tender for WBD to derail Netflix deal

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After Netflix agreed to buy Warner Bros.’ studio and streaming businesses in a deal widely reported at roughly $72 billion (with some outlets citing higher figures) that would exclude WBD’s cable networks and follow a planned spin‑off of CNN/TNT/TBS, industry groups and regulators signaled intense scrutiny and markets reacted with WBD shares rising while Netflix and rivals slipped. Paramount Skydance then launched a hostile $30‑per‑share tender for WBD (~$74.4 billion) — including the cable assets Netflix’s deal omits — saying its offer is about $18 billion higher, could avoid a lengthy multi‑jurisdictional review, expires Jan. 8, 2026 unless extended, briefly boosted WBD and Paramount shares, and raised the prospect of a CNN–CBS combination amid political scrutiny.

CNN Media Mergers and Acquisitions Media Industry M&A

Treasury: Turning Point USA not under IRS probe

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The Treasury Department sent a letter last week to Erika Kirk stating that four Turning Point entities are not being examined or investigated by the IRS and that all required Form 990s were submitted on time this year. The response followed social media allegations of financial impropriety that prompted some donors to seek refunds; a senior Treasury official told CBS that IRS may provide such status information to the taxpayer upon request.

IRS and Tax-Exempt Organizations Turning Point USA

Genesis seeks bankruptcy shield from injury settlements

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Genesis HealthCare, once the nation’s largest nursing home chain, is using Chapter 11 proceedings in Dallas to shed roughly $259 million in liabilities from nearly 1,000 settled and pending resident injury/death suits, with a Dec. 10 hearing set to approve a sale of assets to its largest private‑equity investor. A KFF Health News/CBS review of 155 settlement agreements and filings shows Genesis deferred payments in many cases—paying nothing in 85 and only partial amounts in 70—and still owes $41 million of $58 million agreed, as the company says it denies wrongdoing and was spending $8 million per month on litigation.

Long-Term Care and Nursing Homes Bankruptcy and Courts

HUD report ties immigration to rental demand

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HUD Secretary Scott Turner said the department’s 2025 Worst Case Housing Needs Report finds increased immigration has significantly driven rental demand and contributed to pricing out low‑income families. Turner added HUD will move to an English‑only model under a Trump executive order and has rescinded FHA‑backed mortgage eligibility extended to undocumented immigrants during the prior administration, while an industry analyst cited long‑term underbuilding as the primary affordability driver.

Housing Policy Immigration and Border

NJ twins charged over threats to DHS official

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Two New Jersey brothers, Ricardo and Emilio Roman-Flores of Absecon, were arrested after posts on X allegedly threatened to torture and kill DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin and urged people to “shoot ICE on sight.” Emilio faces weapons and multiple threat-related charges; Ricardo is charged with conspiracy–terroristic threats. DHS credited Absecon Police and its SWAT team with the arrests, and ICE Director Todd Lyons vowed full prosecution amid a surge in threats against ICE personnel.

Homeland Security Crime and Online Threats

U.S. job openings flat at 7.67 million

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The Labor Department’s JOLTS report released Dec. 9 shows U.S. job openings were 7.67 million in October, essentially unchanged from September’s 7.66 million, with layoffs rising and quits falling. Due to the 43‑day federal shutdown, September and October JOLTS were combined, no October unemployment rate will be published, and the department will issue October payroll figures alongside the delayed full November jobs report next Tuesday.

U.S. Labor Market U.S. Economy

Terry Rozier pleads not guilty; judge sets March 3 hearing, prosecutors to produce 55GB of discovery

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Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier pleaded not guilty at his Dec. 8, 2025 arraignment before U.S. District Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall in Brooklyn, and the judge set the next court date for March 3. Prosecutors said they will produce an initial set of about 1,000 documents and more than 55 GB of data, while Rozier’s defense plans to file a motion to dismiss on constitutional grounds and the judge said NBA arbitration is irrelevant to the federal case.

Sports Betting Investigation Federal Courts NBA Gambling Probe

Ex‑ethics chiefs seek DOJ probe of OLC strike opinion

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A bipartisan trio of former White House ethics lawyers—Norm Eisen, Richard Painter and Virginia Canter—asked the Justice Department’s Office of Professional Responsibility on Tuesday to investigate whether the Office of Legal Counsel violated professional duties in crafting a still‑classified opinion justifying U.S. lethal strikes on suspected drug‑running boats. Their request, citing a Nov. 12 Washington Post report, comes as congressional leaders are slated to be briefed on the strikes and legal rationale, and as Senate Judiciary Democrats Dick Durbin and Peter Welch seek access to DOJ’s legal analyses.

Venezuela Boat Strikes Legal Basis Department of Justice Office of Legal Counsel

Bill would require fathers to pay pregnancy costs

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Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa) introduced the Supporting Healthy Pregnancy Act, which would require states to set up systems ensuring biological fathers cover at least 50% of out-of-pocket medical expenses for pregnancy and delivery, including insurance premiums, when requested by the mother. The bill explicitly excludes abortion costs and aims to provide support prior to birth, addressing a gap in most states where child support typically begins only at birth. Hinson also highlighted companion efforts on campus resources for pregnant students and a bipartisan plan with Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Mich.) to expand midwife training in underserved areas.

Congress Reproductive Policy

Rep. Marc Veasey won’t seek reelection

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Rep. Marc Veasey (D-Texas) announced Dec. 8 he will forgo reelection in the redrawn 33rd Congressional District and will run for Tarrant County Judge, challenging incumbent Tim O’Hare. Veasey cited what he called racially gerrymandered maps and said the county is at a crossroads, while O’Hare’s campaign criticized his record; the shift comes as other Democrats, including former Rep. Colin Allred and Rep. Julie Johnson, eye the newly configured TX‑33 seat.

Texas Politics U.S. House Elections

St. Paul police ID Payne‑Phalen homicide victim as 49‑year‑old Michael Tucker

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St. Paul police identified the victim of a fatal shooting in the Payne‑Phalen neighborhood as 49‑year‑old Michael Tucker; officers responded just before 9:15 p.m. to the 900 block of Edgerton Street where Tucker suffered a gunshot wound to the upper torso, was taken to Regions Hospital and pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The Ramsey County Medical Examiner will conduct an autopsy to confirm the cause of death and identity, and police processed the scene as the circumstances remain under investigation; it is St. Paul’s 13th homicide of 2025.

Legal Public Safety

Grammy-nominated musician killed in Rhode Island crash

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Roderick Macleod, 70, a former member of Roomful of Blues and a 2014 Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame inductee, was struck and killed while walking his dogs on a Hopkinton roadway on Saturday. Police say the driver, 41-year-old Shannon Godbout, was driving recklessly, left her lane, hit multiple objects and then fatally struck Macleod; she was found with illegal narcotics and charged with driving to endanger resulting in death and possession with intent to distribute, with additional charges possible.

Public Safety and Crime Rhode Island

Trump backs NSS, says 'NATO calls me Daddy,' praises Orbán/Erdoğan, hints more tariffs

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President Trump endorsed the newly released 33-page National Security Strategy (Dec. 5, 2025), which elevates mass migration as the primary U.S. threat, pledges a “Trump Corollary” to the Monroe Doctrine to reassert U.S. dominance in the Americas, sharply criticizes European allies as facing “civilizational erasure,” and softens some language on China while seeking to reestablish strategic stability with Russia. In interviews he boasted that “NATO calls me ‘Daddy,’” praised leaders like Hungary’s Viktor Orbán and Turkey’s Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (saying European leaders sometimes ask him to contact Erdoğan and noting an Orbán request about a U.S.-backed financial shield), and signaled he may increase tariffs further on some imports.

U.S.–China Relations U.S. Foreign Policy U.S. National Security Policy

OU removes lecturer over protest absence bias

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The University of Oklahoma said Friday it removed a lecturer from the classroom and placed the professor on administrative leave after excusing absences for students attending a pro‑TA protest but not for counter‑protesters. OU’s director told the class and emailed that the action was "inappropriate and wrong," extended excused absences to any student attending the protest regardless of viewpoint, and confirmed the lecturer was replaced for the rest of the semester. The incident follows the removal of TA William "Mel" Curth after a Christian student received a zero on an essay referencing the Bible.

Campus Speech and Academic Freedom Higher Education

Sherrod Brown taps Hollywood for 2026 bid

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Fox News reports that former Ohio Sen. Sherrod Brown, running to reclaim his seat in 2026, has raised at least $1.2 million from Hollywood-linked donors per FEC filings and will attend a Los Angeles fundraiser this week hosted by Sony Pictures CEO Tom Rothman and his wife, with a suggested $10,000 contribution. The piece lists prominent donors including Aaron Sorkin, Will Ferrell, Jeff Bridges, Michael Douglas, Danny DeVito and Elizabeth Banks, and notes prior Q3 data showing a large share of out-of-state contributions.

Campaign Finance Ohio Senate 2026

White House urges G7 to ease AI rules, signals U.S. framework

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White House OSTP director Michael Kratsios opened the G7 tech ministers’ meeting in Montréal on Tuesday urging allies to strip away 'innovation‑killing' barriers and adopt sector‑specific approaches that speed AI deployment while safeguarding the public. He framed a 'trusted AI ecosystem' aligned to national priorities as the U.S. goal, while President Trump wrote Monday he will issue a 'One Rule' executive order this week to create a single national AI regulatory framework and avoid a patchwork of 50 state approvals.

Artificial Intelligence Policy Donald Trump G7

Supreme Court hears bid to lift party spending caps

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The U.S. Supreme Court on Dec. 9 heard arguments in a Republican challenge seeking to end federal limits on how much political parties can spend in coordination with their candidates, a decision that could reshape 2026 campaign spending in Minnesota, including Minneapolis–Saint Paul races. The Federal Election Commission defended the current caps during the hearing; a ruling later this term could change how parties fund and coordinate electoral efforts.

Elections Legal

Supreme Court to hear Trump birthright-citizenship case in spring; New Hampshire class action at issue

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The Supreme Court will hear arguments in the spring and could issue a decision by early summer on the constitutionality of former President Trump’s birthright-citizenship order; the case originates in a New Hampshire class action in which a federal judge blocked the order for a class including all affected children, and lower courts have largely concluded the order violates or likely violates the 14th Amendment. The administration has also sought review of an appeals-court ruling that led to a nationwide injunction in suits brought by Democratic-led states, and the Court’s recent limits on nationwide injunctions left open that class actions and certain state suits can still have nationwide effect.

Immigration Policy Birthright Citizenship Immigration and Citizenship

Judge to hear bid to pause Georgia execution

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A federal judge in Atlanta will hear arguments Tuesday on a lawsuit by death‑row inmate Stacey Humphreys seeking to block his Dec. 17 execution under a COVID‑era agreement that set conditions for resuming executions in Georgia. Humphreys argues the pact’s requirements—normal prison visitation, vaccines available to all, and notice periods—remain unmet, while the state says he is not covered because his 11th Circuit rehearing denial came after the pandemic judicial emergency ended; a judge earlier ruled the vaccine condition is unmet and that appeal is pending before the Georgia Supreme Court.

Death Penalty Georgia Courts

Supreme Court weighs presidential removal power as Kavanaugh flags Federal Reserve independence

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The Supreme Court is hearing Trump v. Slaughter, a direct challenge to the 1935 Humphrey’s Executor precedent that could let presidents fire FTC commissioners at will — Solicitor General D. John Sauer urged overruling while liberal justices warned overturning the rule would destabilize independent agencies, and the Court allowed Rebecca Slaughter’s removal to stand pending review after lower courts ordered reinstatement. Justice Kavanaugh pressed the government on how its theory would preserve Federal Reserve independence, and the Court will separately consider President Trump’s effort to remove Fed Governor Lisa Cook amid broader removals of Democratic agency officials this year.

Presidential Powers Supreme Court Presidential Removal Power

Study maps five life stages of brain wiring

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Neuroscientists at the University of Cambridge report in Nature Communications that the human brain passes through five structural 'epochs' from birth to age 90, with key turning points around ages 9 and 32 and a long stable adult phase before aging-related reorganization after 66. Using diffusion MRI in 3,802 individuals, the team found adolescence-like structural changes persist into the early 30s, adulthood stabilizes roughly from 32 to 66, and early aging shows reduced connectivity and white-matter degeneration.

Neuroscience Aging and Brain Health

State Dept urges Americans to leave Mali now

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The U.S. State Department and the U.S. Embassy in Bamako warned Americans to avoid travel to Mali and for those in-country to depart immediately, citing terrorism, kidnappings, crime and blocked routes as al‑Qaeda–linked JNIM forces surround the capital. The embassy said citizens should leave via commercial flights and avoid overland travel due to attacks along national highways, adding it can rarely provide emergency services outside Bamako; a retired AFRICOM official warned an external operations threat to the U.S. homeland is increasingly likely.

U.S. State Department West Africa Security

3,500+ cannabis-in-vehicle charges since legalization

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Minnesota prosecutors have filed more than 3,500 charges for marijuana possession in motor vehicles since legalization, according to a Minnesota Reformer analysis of court/prosecution data published Dec. 9, 2025. The figures reflect enforcement of Minnesota’s law that continues to prohibit cannabis in the passenger area or in open packaging inside vehicles, impacting drivers statewide, including the Twin Cities.

Legal Public Safety

NC teen sues school over spirit-rock probe

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Gabby Stout, a junior at Ardrey Kell High School in Charlotte, N.C., filed a lawsuit Monday alleging her public school violated her rights after she painted the campus 'spirit rock' with a religious and patriotic tribute to slain activist Charlie Kirk on Sept. 13 and was then accused of vandalism and told law enforcement was contacted. The suit cites a subsequent district policy change banning political and religious messages, claims she was pulled from class, compelled to write a statement, and asked to surrender her phone, and notes a later Oct. 11 message from the district clarifying the incident was not vandalism and law enforcement had not been contacted.

K-12 Education First Amendment

NIH freeze hobbles Harvard breast cancer lab

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Harvard Medical School researcher Joan Brugge says her NCI-funded breast cancer lab lost 7 of 18 staff after the NIH froze Harvard grants in April over campus antisemitism concerns, then restored funding in September. The administration barred Harvard researchers from applying for new multiyear NIH grants; a federal judge lifted that ban, but Brugge missed the renewal deadline, meaning her current $7 million, seven-year grant will end and work to target early 'seed' cells in breast tissue has slowed.

NIH Funding and Research Breast Cancer

Senate GOP to probe Biden parole policies

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Sens. John Cornyn (R‑Texas) and Josh Hawley (R‑Mo.) will lead a Dec. 16 Senate hearing examining Biden‑era immigration parole programs, citing the D.C. National Guard shooting allegedly carried out by Afghan evacuee Rahmanullah Lakanwal admitted under Operation Allies Welcome. The subcommittee chairs say they have long warned of vetting failures and now seek accountability and policy changes following the killing of Spc. Sarah Beckstrom and the wounding of SSgt. Andrew Wolfe.

Congressional Oversight U.S. Immigration Policy

White House to unveil $12B farm aid; $11B via Farmer Bridge payments, $1B for other crops

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The White House will unveil a $12 billion farm aid package — funded through the USDA’s Commodity Credit Corporation and presented by the administration as enabled by tariff revenue — that delivers roughly $11 billion in one‑time Farmer Bridge Assistance payments to row‑crop growers and about $1 billion for other farmers whose crops don’t qualify. President Trump will announce the plan at a Monday 2 p.m. EST White House roundtable with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, lawmakers and growers, tying the relief to a nascent trade reset with China, which officials say has purchased and pledged millions of tons of U.S. soybeans.

Agriculture Policy Agriculture and Tariffs U.S. Agriculture Policy

Judge OKs $230M New Orleans abuse settlement

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A judge approved a $230 million settlement resolving more than 500 sexual-abuse claims against the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans, part of the archdiocese’s 2020 bankruptcy filing to consolidate claims. The agreement provides compensation for hundreds of survivors and includes new policies intended to prevent future abuse within the archdiocese.

Catholic Church Abuse Settlements Clergy Sexual Abuse New Orleans Archdiocese

DOJ detains two in Nvidia chip smuggling

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The Justice Department said Monday it detained Fanyue 'Tom' Gong, 43, of Brooklyn, and Benlin Yuan, 58, of Mississauga, Ontario, for allegedly conspiring to smuggle export‑controlled Nvidia H100/H200 AI chips to China as part of 'Operation Gatekeeper.' Prosecutors in the Southern District of Texas said authorities seized over $50 million in GPUs bound for China and other restricted locations and linked the case to a prior October guilty plea by Houston businessman Alan Hao Hsu and Hao Global LLC over attempts to export at least $160 million in such chips.

U.S. Export Controls Semiconductors and AI

Honduras AG orders arrest of ex‑President Hernández, asks Interpol after Trump pardon

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President Trump granted a full pardon to former Honduran president Juan Orlando Hernández, who was serving at USP Hazelton after a U.S. conviction for conspiring to import more than 400 tons of cocaine (he had been sentenced to 45 years and was appealing); Hernández was released, Trump defended the move, and it drew bipartisan criticism. Honduras Attorney General Johel Zelaya ordered authorities and asked Interpol to execute a 2023 Supreme Court magistrate arrest order—triggered if Hernández were freed—accusing him in the "Pandora" scheme of fraud and money‑laundering tied to diversion of state funds to political parties; Hernández’s lawyer called the action political and his whereabouts after release remain unclear. The pardon, coming after Trump’s endorsement of National Party candidate Nasry “Tito” Asfura, has overshadowed a tight Honduran presidential vote.

Donald Trump Honduras U.S. Justice Department

DHS lists Afghan evacuees arrested in ICE sweeps

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DHS has identified Afghan evacuees among those arrested in recent ICE sweeps, with news outlets tracking roughly two dozen detentions since the Nov. 26 D.C. National Guard shooting — most in Northern California. Volunteers in Sacramento reported at least nine Afghan men detained after ICE check‑in calls, and those held included recent asylum seekers at the U.S.–Mexico border and some evacuees from Operation Allies Welcome; DHS said it is going “full throttle” to identify and arrest known or suspected terrorists and “criminal illegal aliens” amid paused asylum decisions and stepped‑up vetting. Media reports also say some of the detainees have been accused of terror‑related or sexual offenses.

Homeland Security Immigration Enforcement Afghan Evacuees

Four ICE arrestees in Minneapolis sue over detention

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Four immigrants arrested since Minneapolis’ Operation Metro Surge began Dec. 1 have filed federal lawsuits challenging their detention, part of at least 11 immigration suits lodged in Minnesota in December. Plaintiffs include Abdul Dahir Ibrahim of Shakopee, arrested Nov. 29 and long under a removal order, and Mahamed Cabdilaahi Awaale, an asylum seeker; filings argue asylum eligibility, pending visas, or naturalization eligibility while at least three face deportation.

Legal Public Safety

DOT, HHS launch $1B family travel initiative

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At Reagan National Airport on Dec. 8, 2025, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the Trump administration’s 'Make Travel Family Friendly Again' program, allocating $1 billion to help U.S. airports improve family-focused facilities and services. Funds can support kids’ play and exercise areas, mothers’ rooms or nursing pods, family screening lanes, and sensory rooms for children with special needs, while HHS is encouraging airports to expand access to healthier food options.

Transportation Policy Airports and Aviation

NASA’s Jonny Kim departs ISS for landing

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NASA astronaut Jonny Kim and Russian cosmonauts Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky undocked from the International Space Station aboard Soyuz MS‑27/73S at 8:41 p.m. EST Monday, heading for a parachute‑assisted landing on the Kazakh steppe targeted for 12:04 a.m. EST. The crew’s return caps an eight‑month mission spanning 3,920 orbits and 104 million miles; recovery teams are staged in frigid conditions to retrieve the trio, after which Kim will fly to Johnson Space Center and his crewmates to Star City for debriefs.

NASA and Spaceflight International Space Station

Family sues Royal Caribbean; ME rules cruise death a homicide after alleged 33 drinks

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After a man aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise was allegedly served 33 drinks and later restrained by ship security, a medical examiner ruled his December 2024 death a homicide, citing the combined effects of mechanical asphyxia, obesity, cardiomegaly and ethanol intoxication. The family’s lawsuit alleges security used three cans of pepper spray, multiple personnel compressed his body until he stopped moving, staff ordered a haloperidol injection, the body was refrigerated until the ship returned to Los Angeles, and their attorney accuses Royal Caribbean of negligent hiring, training and supervision.

Courts and Civil Litigation Royal Caribbean Cruise Industry

Ex-Colleton court clerk Becky Hill pleads guilty; sentenced to probation for leaking sealed Murdaugh exhibits

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Former Colleton County court clerk Becky Hill pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice, perjury and two counts of misconduct in office in connection with showing sealed exhibits from the Alex Murdaugh case, resigned in March 2024 and apologized in court. Judge Heath Taylor sentenced her to probation (reports conflict on whether it was one or three years) and said a harsher penalty would have followed if jury tampering were proven; prosecutors say a journalist reported Hill showed graphic crime‑scene photos and image metadata tied her key card to the locked evidence room, Hill brought a check to repay nearly $10,000 linked to one misconduct count, and her defense questioned her credibility and the investigation.

Judicial Misconduct Alex Murdaugh Alex Murdaugh Case

Arden Hills DUI crash: driver sentenced

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A judge on Dec. 8, 2025, sentenced the driver in a drunken‑driving crash in Arden Hills that killed a New Brighton couple, with the couple’s daughter delivering a victim‑impact statement in court. The case, handled in Ramsey County, concludes the criminal proceedings stemming from the fatal collision.

Legal Public Safety

Florida teens charged in 14-year-old’s murder

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Two Florida teens, Gabriel Williams, 16, and Kimahri Blevins, 14, were charged with first-degree premeditated murder after 14-year-old Danika Troy was found Dec. 2 in a wooded area in Pace, Florida, shot multiple times and set on fire, a day after being reported missing. Sheriff Bob Johnson said Williams allegedly stole his mother’s handgun, the motive remains unclear, and both suspects are held without bond as prosecutors weigh trying them as adults; the victim’s mother alleges Williams lured her daughter by feigning romantic interest.

Violent Crime Juvenile Justice

Augsburg says masked ICE agents targeted student

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Augsburg University says masked ICE agents targeted a student on campus. DHS/ICE disputes that account, saying an Augsburg administrator and campus security tried to obstruct officers who identified themselves and had a warrant, that agents used “minimum” force to clear vehicles, and that the person arrested is unlawfully in the U.S., a registered sex offender with a prior DWI (not independently confirmed), Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said, also citing a reported 1,050% increase in assaults on officers during such arrests.

Education Legal Public Safety

12 fired FBI agents sue Patel, Bondi, FBI and DOJ in D.C. federal court

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Twelve FBI agents who were fired after kneeling to de‑escalate a mixed crowd during a June 4, 2020 George Floyd protest filed a 47‑page lawsuit Monday in U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., proceeding anonymously as Jane and John Does and represented by attorney Mary Dohrmann and the Washington Litigation Group, suing Kash Patel, former AG Pam Bondi, the FBI and the Department of Justice. The complaint says the agents—who lacked riot gear and say their kneeling prevented violence—were cleared by an FBI deputy director and faulted by the DOJ Inspector General as having no political motive, but were later removed after Patel cited “unprofessional conduct and a lack of impartiality”; plaintiffs allege partisan animus (citing Patel’s book), note that about 16 removed agents worked in counterintelligence/counterterrorism, and warn the firings make the country less safe.

Civil Rights Lawsuits Law Enforcement Oversight FBI

Person of interest held in Kris Boyd shooting

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NYPD says a person of interest is in custody in the Nov. 16 shooting of New York Jets cornerback Kris Boyd outside a Midtown Manhattan restaurant. The individual, who has not been identified, was arrested at an apartment complex in Buffalo, according to the New York Post; no charges have been filed and police have not detailed the person’s role.

Crime and Public Safety New York Jets Law Enforcement

DOJ creates Civil Rights Second Amendment section

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Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon announced Monday that the DOJ Civil Rights Division has launched a dedicated Second Amendment section to enforce gun rights, pledging increased federal action against state and local restrictions. Dhillon said the unit will target high concealed-carry permit fees, lengthy processing delays, and bans on firearms inconsistent with recent Supreme Court precedent, citing an early-term executive order from President Trump and promising 'a lot more action' from DOJ.

Department of Justice Gun Policy and Second Amendment

Disney faces lawsuit over disability access changes

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Disabled guests filed a federal lawsuit and a shareholder proposal challenging Disney’s recent narrowing of its Disability Access Service (DAS) eligibility at Disneyland and Disney World, arguing the policy is too restrictive and improperly limits who can bypass long standby lines. Disney now reserves DAS mainly for guests with developmental disabilities such as autism, requires video‑chat screening with a Disney worker and contracted medical professional, and warns violators can be banned; the company says DAS grew from about 5% to 20% of parkgoers and other accommodations remain available.

Disney Parks Disability Rights & ADA

Alaska warns insurers over climate underwriting

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Alaska Attorney General Stephen Cox and Commerce Commissioner Julie Sande sent warning letters Monday to AIG, Zurich, Chubb and The Hartford, alleging some climate-related underwriting and exclusion policies may violate Alaska insurance and consumer-protection laws by restricting coverage for Arctic and energy projects without a risk-based rationale. The move, backed by Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s comments, comes days after Alaska’s delegation helped overturn Biden-era limits on ANWR exploration and cites insurers’ net‑zero targets and broad Arctic exclusions as potential de‑facto barriers to lawful investment.

Insurance Regulation Energy Policy and ANWR

Video shows ICE raid at Burnsville home

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Home surveillance video obtained by FOX 9 shows more than a dozen armed federal agents conduct an apparent ICE raid at a Burnsville residence on Dec. 6, with a resident saying four Latino tenants were arrested and later held out of state, including parents of a 7‑year‑old. The City of Burnsville said its police do not engage in immigration enforcement and are not typically notified of federal operations; ICE/DHS have not yet commented.

Public Safety Legal

CDC issues Level 2 chikungunya travel alerts

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The CDC announced Friday that it has issued Level 2 travel advisories for Cuba, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and China’s Guangdong Province due to chikungunya outbreaks, urging Americans to practice enhanced precautions and recommending vaccination for travelers to affected areas. The agency also flagged elevated risk in Brazil, Colombia, India, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines and Thailand, while WHO data show roughly 445,000 suspected/confirmed cases and 155 deaths globally through September, including about 16,000 locally transmitted cases in Guangdong, China.

Public Health and Travel Chikungunya

U.S., Australia advance AUKUS with $1B pledge

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In Washington on Dec. 8, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth met Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Defense Minister Richard Marles for annual talks focused on Indo-Pacific security, AUKUS, and supply-chain resilience. Hegseth said Australia will deliver an additional $1 billion to help expand U.S. submarine production capacity as the allies press “full steam ahead” on AUKUS, while a State Department readout said Rubio and Wong also discussed combating online scam operations and strategic infrastructure projects across the Pacific.

Indo-Pacific Security AUKUS Submarine Program

Blumenthal presses FTC on dialysis duopoly probe

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Sen. Richard Blumenthal urged the Federal Trade Commission to disclose the results of its investigation into the U.S. for‑profit dialysis industry and to pursue 'robust' enforcement against Fresenius and DaVita if warranted. The senator told CBS News the FTC has examined whether the two firms’ dominant market share has harmed care quality, but findings have not been made public; he cited concerns about anticompetitive conduct in a sector serving about 500,000 Americans.

Antitrust and Health Care Federal Trade Commission

DHS launches 'Worst of the Worst' arrest database

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The Department of Homeland Security on Monday unveiled a 'Worst of the Worst' webpage listing criminal noncitizens arrested during the current enforcement campaign, launching with 10,000 arrest entries and promising ongoing updates. The searchable site spans all 50 states and highlights serious offenses such as homicide, rape and child sex crimes; DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said the tool aims to increase transparency and counter misinformation amid sanctuary‑jurisdiction disputes.

Immigration Enforcement Department of Homeland Security

Jasmine Crockett files for Texas Democratic Senate primary ahead of deadline

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Rep. Jasmine Crockett formally filed paperwork Dec. 8, the final day of candidate qualifying, launching a Dallas campaign event roughly 90 minutes before the state's 6 p.m. CT filing deadline for the March 3 Democratic primary. She joins a competitive Democratic field that includes state Rep. James Talarico—who has reported roughly $6.2–6.3 million raised and 10,000 volunteers and has welcomed her entry—while Crockett’s House committee reported about $2.7 million raised in Q3 and $4.6 million cash on hand; Republicans such as Sen. John Cornyn, AG Ken Paxton and Rep. Wesley Hunt are expected GOP contenders and have already sought to make her a target as Democrats eye a challenging 2026 map.

Texas 2026 Senate Race Texas U.S. Senate Race Jasmine Crockett

Massachusetts high court hears Meta addiction suit

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The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court heard oral arguments on Dec. 5 in Attorney General Andrea Campbell’s 2024 lawsuit alleging Meta designed Facebook and Instagram features to addict teens. State Solicitor David Kravitz said the case targets engagement tools like notifications, while Meta’s attorney Mark Mosier argued the claims would penalize traditional publishing functions protected by the First Amendment; justices’ questions focused on attention‑driving features rather than content moderation. The case comes amid broader state and federal litigation accusing Meta of knowingly deploying addictive design elements for young users.

Meta Platforms Child Online Safety Litigation

After 3rd Circuit ruling, DOJ taps trio to oversee New Jersey office; Habba named Bondi senior adviser

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The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously ruled that Alina Habba was unlawfully serving and disqualified her as acting U.S. attorney for New Jersey, criticizing the administration’s appointment maneuver as undermining stability and clarity in the office. Habba resigned and will serve as Attorney General Pam Bondi’s senior adviser for U.S. attorneys while DOJ delegates day‑to‑day New Jersey responsibilities to Philip Lamparello, Jordan Fox and Ari Fontecchio; Bondi said she will seek further review and criticized the ruling as politicized amid stalled cases.

Department of Justice Justice Department Appointments Federal Courts

GAO flags ACA subsidy errors, fake enrollments

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The Government Accountability Office reported last week that the ACA marketplace paid enhanced premium tax credits in error to tens of thousands of accounts in 2023–2024, including duplicate coverage within a single plan year, payments tied to deceased SSNs, and benefits to 18 of 20 fictitious applicants it created. GAO also said it could not identify evidence of reconciliation for more than $21 billion in APTC for plan year 2023 enrollees with SSNs, while emphasizing the findings are preliminary and represent less than 1% of users, as Congress debates whether to extend the expiring COVID‑era subsidy enhancements.

Affordable Care Act Government Accountability Office Health Insurance Subsidies

Forest Lake man fatally hit on I-35E

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A 66-year-old Forest Lake man died after crashing into the median and then walking into traffic, where he was struck on northbound I-35E just north of County Road J in Lino Lakes around 5:30 p.m. Sunday, according to the Minnesota State Patrol. The 26-year-old driver who hit him was uninjured; the victim’s identity will be released later as troopers investigate what led to the initial off-road crash.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

CIA confirms suspect worked with CIA‑backed unit; report identifies NDS‑03 base at Camp Gecko

2d Breaking 50 Analysis

U.S. officials, including the CIA, confirmed that 29‑year‑old Rahmanullah Lakanwal — evacuated to the United States under Operation Allies Welcome in 2021 and later granted asylum — previously worked with a CIA‑backed Afghan partner unit identified in reports as NDS‑03, which operated from Camp Gecko in Kandahar. Lakanwal is accused of an ambush‑style attack near Farragut Square that critically wounded two West Virginia National Guard members (Spc. Sarah Beckstrom was later reported killed and SSgt. Andrew Wolfe remains hospitalized); he was shot, taken into custody, and the FBI is leading a probe being treated as a possible act of international terrorism.

National Guard and Public Safety Crime and Public Safety U.S. Immigration/Vetting

Israel exposes Iran-directed Hamas network in Turkey

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Israel’s military and security service said this week they uncovered a Hamas money‑exchange network operating in Turkey under Iran’s direction, moving hundreds of millions of dollars to Hamas and helping rebuild capabilities outside Gaza. The IDF and ISA named three Gazan operatives in Turkey—Tamer Hassan, Khalil Farwana and Farid Abu Dair—and released documents showing currency transfers, as Washington debates whether to allow Turkish troops in a U.S.-backed postwar Gaza stabilization mission.

Hamas financing Turkey foreign policy

CDC logs 21st cruise norovirus outbreak in 2025

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The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program confirmed a norovirus outbreak aboard Aida Cruises’ AIDAdiva, with 95 passengers and six crew reporting vomiting and diarrhea during a Nov. 10–Dec. 16 voyage that includes U.S. ports. The cruise line notified CDC on Nov. 30, implemented enhanced cleaning, isolated ill persons and submitted stool samples; CDC says this marks the 21st cruise-ship norovirus outbreak reported this year.

Public Health Cruise Industry

Allred quits Texas Senate bid, seeks House seat

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Colin Allred has exited the Democratic primary for the Texas Senate and is instead launching a comeback bid for the U.S. House, saying he wants to avoid a “bruising Senate primary and runoff” that could hurt Democrats in the general election. He will run in a newly drawn Dallas–Fort Worth district that includes much of the area he represented from 2019–2025; most of that new district is currently represented by Rep. Marc Veasey, who plans to run in a neighboring district.

Texas Politics U.S. House Elections Texas Elections

Mexico refused to expel CIA‑flagged Russian spies

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The New York Times reports that the CIA provided Mexico with a list of more than two dozen Russian intelligence officers posing as diplomats, but Mexican officials declined to expel them despite direct U.S. warnings to then‑President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. While Mexico agreed in 2023 to let U.S. officials weigh in on new Russian diplomatic credential applications—rejecting some—the Russian operatives already in country were allowed to remain even after Mexico’s presidential transition last fall, according to multiple current and former U.S. and Mexican officials.

Intelligence and Espionage U.S.–Mexico Relations

State Dept memo: Deny H‑1B visas to applicants tied to ‘censorship’ work

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An internal State Department memo dated Dec. 2 instructs consular officers to “thoroughly explore” applicants’ work histories (resumes, LinkedIn, media) and to deny H‑1B visas — and is reported to apply across visa categories with special scrutiny of H‑1Bs — if there is evidence they were responsible for or complicit in “censorship” of protected U.S. speech, including roles such as fact‑checking, content moderation, trust & safety, compliance or combating misinformation, and to consider participation by family members traveling with applicants. The department declined to comment on the reportedly leaked memo but defended the policy’s goal of protecting Americans’ free expression, framing the guidance as implementing a May policy announced by Secretary Marco Rubio amid a broader administration push against perceived foreign censorship.

Tech Content Moderation World Cup and Olympics Immigration and Visas

Judge dismisses Comey indictment over unlawful interim U.S. attorney appointment

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U.S. District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie dismissed the indictments against James Comey and New York AG Letitia James, finding that interim U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan was unlawfully appointed and voiding the actions she took as the lone presenter and signatory to the grand‑jury proceedings; the dismissals were without prejudice. The rulings follow magistrate Judge William Fitzpatrick’s sharp criticism of DOJ for “indict first, investigate later” and orders to produce grand‑jury and seized materials, while separate orders have temporarily barred DOJ from using Daniel Richman’s seized files; DOJ has defended the appointment, says it will appeal, and may seek to refile.

Justice Department Appointments James Comey Case Courts

Iran says second U.S. deportation flight carries 55

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Iran says a second U.S. deportation flight carrying 55 Iranians has left the United States, with Tehran's foreign ministry saying the deportees "announced their willingness for return" and that U.S. authorities cited legal breaches of immigration regulations. A U.S. official told the NYT the routine deportation also carried non‑Iranian nationals who would disembark in Cairo while the Iranians were routed via Kuwait to transfer to a chartered Kuwait Airways flight to Tehran; ICE declined to confirm specific flights, saying removal flights occur every day.

Iran–U.S. Relations U.S. Immigration and Enforcement U.S.–Iran Relations

China trade surplus tops $1T amid tariffs

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China’s customs agency said Monday, Dec. 8, 2025, that its annual trade surplus has surpassed $1 trillion for the first time, as November exports rose 5.9% year over year even while shipments to the United States plunged nearly 29% under U.S. tariffs. The report notes U.S. import taxes on Chinese goods peaked at 145% this spring and have been reduced to 47.5%, and that China has redirected exports to Europe, Africa, Latin America and the rest of Asia.

U.S.–China Trade Global Economy

Wegmans recalls mixed nuts for Salmonella risk

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The FDA announced a recall of Wegmans Deluxe Mixed Nuts Unsalted sold in nine states and Washington, D.C., after supplier testing found Salmonella in a lot of raw pistachios used in the products. The recalled items, manufactured by Mellace Family Brands California in Warren, Ohio, were sold between Nov. 3 and Dec. 1; no illnesses have been reported and customers can return affected products for a full refund.

Food Safety Recalls FDA

Blackburn, Cantwell unveil NIL savings bill

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Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R‑Tenn.) and Maria Cantwell (D‑Wash.) introduced the HUSTLE Act to create tax‑advantaged accounts for college athletes’ name, image and likeness (NIL) income, require financial education, and tighten oversight of athlete agents. The bill allows contributions up to the annual gift‑tax exclusion, permits up to $35,000 in unused funds to roll into an IRA once an athlete has been out of college sports for at least a year, and directs Treasury to issue regulations to prevent abuse. The proposal updates the Sports Agent Responsibility and Trust Act to require agent registration with states and aims to curb exploitative commissions and IP grabs.

College Sports NIL U.S. Congress

ICE warns Illinois over releasing detainees

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ICE sent a letter, shared with Fox News Digital, warning Illinois officials that state and local agencies are releasing violent criminal noncitizens despite active immigration detainers, which the agency says endangers public safety. ICE reports 1,768 criminal aliens with active detainers have been released since January 2025 and another 4,015 with pending detainers remain in custody, including individuals linked to 51 homicides and more than 800 sexual‑predatory offenses; the agency cited multiple cases where local authorities failed to notify ICE before release and asked whether Illinois will change course.

Immigration Enforcement Illinois Public Safety

ICEBlock sues Trump over Apple app takedown

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The developer of ICEBlock filed a federal lawsuit in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 8, alleging the Trump administration violated the First Amendment by threatening prosecution and pressuring Apple to remove the ICE-tracking alert app from the App Store in October. The suit cites Attorney General Pam Bondi’s public statements as evidence of coercion; DOJ and Apple did not comment. ICEBlock lets users anonymously report nearby ICE sightings, which the White House has argued endangers agents, a claim the developer disputes.

First Amendment and Tech Platforms Immigration Enforcement

D.C. police chief Pamela Smith resigns

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D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith is stepping down, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced, praising Smith for driving down violent crime — including cutting homicides to an eight‑year low — launching a Real‑Time Crime Center and other technology upgrades, and overseeing about a 17% drop in overall crime in the first 10 weeks of 2024. The departure, for which Bowser gave no reason or successor, comes amid reports of pressure tied to former President Trump and an investigation into alleged crime‑data manipulation.

District of Columbia Washington, D.C. Policing Law Enforcement and Oversight

Russia sentences soldiers for killing U.S. citizen

3d Breaking 1

A court in Russian-controlled Donetsk on Monday sentenced four Russian soldiers for the April 2024 killing of American-born Russell “Texas” Bentley, a 64-year-old pro-Moscow propagandist and fighter. Two officers received 12-year terms and were stripped of rank, a sergeant got 11 years, and a fourth soldier received 1.5 years for concealing crimes, after the court found Bentley was beaten to death when they mistook him for a U.S. spy and his body was later destroyed in a car explosion.

Russia–Ukraine War Courts and Legal Actions

Report links U.S. universities to Chinese surveillance labs

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A report released Monday by Strategy Risks and the Human Rights Foundation alleges that elite U.S. universities including MIT, Stanford, Harvard, and Princeton co-authored roughly 3,000 papers since 2020 with Chinese AI labs Zhejiang Lab and SAIRI, which are tied to state surveillance contractor CETC. The study argues such collaborations advanced technologies like multi-object tracking and gait recognition that support Beijing’s repression of Uyghur Muslims, noting Chinese laws compel research entities to assist state security services and warning U.S.-funded work may be absorbed into systems of oppression.

U.S. Universities and China Uyghur Human Rights

Ernst urges 24 agencies to freeze SBA 8(a)

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Sen. Joni Ernst, chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, sent letters to 24 federal agencies urging a halt to funding and contracting through the SBA’s 8(a) program pending a government‑wide review of alleged fraud and oversight failures. Citing a recent DOJ bribery case tied to 8(a) awards, an undercover video, and SBA’s own June audit order, Ernst argues Biden‑era expansion of 8(a) goals to 15% has amplified risks; the program awarded more than $40 billion in FY2024.

Small Business Administration Federal Contracting and Oversight

Light snow Monday; storm watch Tuesday north metro

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FOX 9 forecasts light snow in the Twin Cities Monday with a dusting expected, while areas north of I‑94 could see 1–3 inches. A stronger clipper arrives Tuesday with a winter storm watch posted for the northern metro and areas north, bringing heavier snow bands north of I‑94, a wintry mix or rain possible in the metro/south, and much colder air Wednesday dropping temps into the teens and single digits through the week.

Weather

Fire destroys Prior Lake mosque, K–12 school

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An overnight fire around 2 a.m. Monday destroyed the Masjid Hamza Al‑Mahmood Foundation and Baitul Hikmah Academy in Prior Lake, with firefighters arriving to flames through the roof and a partial roof collapse. No one was inside; about 200 K–12 students move to e‑learning as the cause remains under investigation and the school seeks temporary space at other campuses or a rented site.

Public Safety Education

Boston Scientific buys Maple Grove facility for $188M

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Boston Scientific has purchased a newly built facility in Maple Grove for $188 million, further expanding its presence in the northwest Twin Cities metro. The deal underscores continued investment by the medtech giant in its local operations; additional details about the building and any staffing plans were not immediately available.

Business & Economy Real Estate

Trump proposes CAFE rollback to 34.5 mpg through 2031; GM, Stellantis back plan

3d Dev 4 Analysis

The Trump administration proposed rolling back light‑duty CAFE standards to roughly 34.5 mpg through model year 2031—reverting to a 2022 baseline and increasing fuel‑economy requirements by about 0.5% per year versus roughly 2% under the Biden rule (which projected near‑50 mpg targets)—and the DOT/NHTSA plan was unveiled at the White House and sent into formal rulemaking and public comment. General Motors and Stellantis (and Ford’s CEO praised the move) backed the alignment as reflecting market realities and a single national standard, while environmental groups warned the rollback would raise U.S. oil use, emissions and weaken EV policy.

Automotive Industry Transportation Regulation Fuel Economy Standards

Rural hospitals warn $100K H‑1B fee hurts staffing

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CBS reports that a September presidential proclamation imposing a $100,000 H‑1B fee for workers applying from abroad is straining rural hospitals’ hiring, with facilities like West River Health Services in Hettinger, North Dakota unable to attract U.S. applicants and now facing prohibitive costs or uncertain DHS waivers. The American Hospital Association, two national rural health groups, and 50+ medical societies have asked the administration to exempt healthcare, citing heavy reliance on foreign‑born clinicians and technicians.

Immigration Policy Healthcare Workforce

Camp Pendleton Marine killed in vehicle mishap identified as Pfc. Tanner F. Rubio

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Pfc. Tanner F. Rubio, 21, of Dixon, California, was killed Wednesday afternoon at Camp Pendleton in a tactical vehicle mishap during a training evolution; Rubio was an infantry rifleman with I Marine Expeditionary Force serving in a battalion of the 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, and had joined the Marine Corps in January 2025. Maj. Gen. Thomas Savage honored Rubio’s service and the loss across the division, officials said the accident was not related to the Steel Knight exercise, and a local state senator offered condolences and said she will monitor the investigation.

Military Training Accidents U.S. Marine Corps Public Safety

New Oakdale group home for trafficked youth

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A new group home in Oakdale, Washington County, will support youth impacted by sexual exploitation and human trafficking, providing safe housing and services in the Twin Cities east metro. Announced December 7, the facility expands local capacity to serve vulnerable teens in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul area.

Public Safety Health

El Gran Combo founder Rafael Ithier dies at 99

3d Breaking 1

Rafael Ithier, the pianist, composer, arranger, and founder of El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, died at age 99, the orchestra announced on Dec. 7 via social media. A San Juan native and U.S. Army veteran, Ithier led the ensemble for six decades, shaping salsa across Puerto Rico and the U.S.; the Latin Recording Academy praised his “eternal legacy in salsa.”

Rafael Ithier El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico

NYC mayor‑elect issues ICE rights guidance

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New York City mayor‑elect Zohran Mamdani on Sunday released a video advising New Yorkers on their rights during ICE encounters, saying agents cannot enter private spaces without a judicial warrant and that residents may refuse entry, remain silent, and legally film as long as they do not interfere. Framing the message after a recent attempted ICE raid in Manhattan, he pledged to protect immigrants and New Yorkers’ right to protest, and reaffirmed the city’s sanctuary‑policy posture despite a November meeting with President Trump.

New York City Immigration Enforcement and Sanctuary Policies

NPS drops MLK Day, Juneteenth from fee‑free calendar, adds June 14; confirms nonresident surcharges

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The National Park Service will revamp its fee‑free calendar effective Jan. 1, 2026, removing MLK Day and Juneteenth and adding June 14 (Trump’s birthday/Flag Day) along with other fee‑free dates such as Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day and the three‑day Independence Day weekend, Constitution Day (Sept. 17), the NPS 110th anniversary (Aug. 25) and Theodore Roosevelt’s birthday (Oct. 27), with Veterans Day the lone carryover. The Interior Department framed the changes as “patriotic fee‑free days” and tied them to a White House executive order favoring citizens/residents, while confirming resident annual passes remain $80, nonresident annual passes rise to $250, a $100 surcharge will apply to non‑U.S. visitors at 11 popular parks, and the America the Beautiful pass will move fully digital via Recreation.gov.

National Park Service Interior Department Policy Trump Administration Policies

DOT waives $11M of Southwest storm fine

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The U.S. Department of Transportation issued an order Friday waiving Southwest Airlines’ final $11 million payment to the Treasury from a 2023 $140 million civil penalty tied to the carrier’s December 2022 holiday meltdown. DOT cited improved on‑time performance and investments in network operations, after Southwest had already made $12 million payments in 2024 and earlier this year toward the $35 million Treasury portion, with most of the overall penalty dedicated to customer compensation.

U.S. Department of Transportation Airlines and Aviation

Charlotte light rail stabbing: suspect twice deported, Trump reacts

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Oscar Solarzano, an undocumented immigrant whom DHS says has been removed from the U.S. twice, was arrested after a stabbing aboard a Charlotte light rail that officials say arose from an altercation between two individuals rather than a random attack, and a magistrate ordered him to remain jailed. President Trump posted on Truth Social blaming Democrats over the incident, while Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles highlighted the city's public-safety investments and said immigration enforcement is outside city jurisdiction; CBS-cited DHS documents show fewer than one-third of Border Patrol arrests in Charlotte’s recent crackdown were classified as criminal.

Immigration Enforcement Donald Trump Crime and Public Transportation

Fights end Hopkins–Tartan game; police clear gym

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Police cleared the gym and ended a basketball game early at Hopkins High School on Saturday night after fights broke out during a matchup between Hopkins and Tartan, officials said. The event was hosted by Breakdown Sports under a rental agreement that required a security plan, which included two on‑site officers; school leaders reported no serious injuries and noted a similar third‑party tournament in August also saw fights at the same venue.

Public Safety Education

Nature study: Satellites threaten space telescope images

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A NASA-led, peer-reviewed study published in Nature on Dec. 3, 2025 warns that reflected light from rapidly growing satellite constellations could contaminate up to 96% of images from some space telescopes within a decade, with at least one in three Hubble images expected to show a satellite streak. The analysis cites more than 10,000 active satellites (including ~7,800 SpaceX Starlink units) and forecasts major impacts on NASA’s SPHEREx as well as ESA’s ARRAKIHS and China’s Xuntian, while the American Astronomical Society and the U.N.’s ITU voice concern and SpaceX points to mitigation steps like visors and darker coatings.

Space and Astronomy Satellite Constellations

Trump orders DOJ, FTC food‑supply task forces

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President Donald Trump issued an executive order on Dec. 6, 2025 creating food supply chain security task forces within the Justice Department and the Federal Trade Commission to address possible price‑fixing and anticompetitive behavior. The administration also urged DOJ to investigate major meatpackers as beef prices near record highs amid the smallest U.S. cattle herd in 70 years; DOJ and FTC may bring enforcement actions or propose new regulations if they find violations.

Antitrust and Food Supply Donald Trump

CU Boulder suspends Phi Kappa Sigma over hazing

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The University of Colorado Boulder placed the Phi Kappa Sigma chapter on interim suspension after receiving a credible hazing report on Dec. 1 (formally logged Dec. 2) and at least two additional anonymous reports alleging 'extreme or severe hazing.' A campus safety alert issued Thursday night urged tips to Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution, Safe2Tell, or Metro Denver Crime Stoppers, while Boulder Police said no substantiated hazing cases are on record and three recent reports were unfounded or closed. The fraternity’s national office said it is partnering with the university in the investigation.

Campus Safety Higher Education

Magnitude 7.0 quake hits Alaska–Yukon border

3d Breaking 1

A magnitude‑7.0 earthquake struck Saturday in a remote area near the Alaska–Yukon border, the U.S. Geological Survey said, with shaking felt in Whitehorse and nearby communities but no immediate reports of injuries or damage and no tsunami warning. The quake, about 230 miles northwest of Juneau and 155 miles west of Whitehorse, occurred at a depth of roughly 10 km and was followed by multiple smaller aftershocks, according to U.S. and Canadian officials.

Earthquakes Alaska

Bessent says services, not tariffs, driving inflation; forecasts ~3% 2025 GDP in CBS interview

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Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Face the Nation on Dec. 7 that services — not tariffs or imported‑goods prices — are driving current inflation, citing PCE inflation at about 2.9% versus roughly 1.8% for imported goods. He said the holiday season is "very strong across all income cohorts," noted real incomes are up about 1% and GDP ran near 4% in a couple of quarters, and forecast the U.S. will finish 2025 with roughly 3% real GDP growth despite the Schumer shutdown.

Trump Administration U.S.–China Trade U.S. Economy and Inflation

Congress probes Philly schools’ antisemitism; Shapiro urges action

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Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s office said the School District of Philadelphia must “take very seriously” allegations of antisemitism as the House Committee on Education and the Workforce investigates whether the district created a hostile environment for Jewish K‑12 students under Title VI. The committee’s November letter cites reports of teachers spreading antisemitism and district‑approved walkouts; Fox News Digital also reports obtaining messages from a ‘Philadelphia Educators for Palestine’ group and notes district policy bars staff‑student communication on personal social media.

Education and Antisemitism Congressional Oversight

Benin interior minister says coup foiled; 13 soldiers arrested as state TV restored

4d Breaking 2

Interior Minister Alassane Seidou said in a Facebook video that a small group of soldiers launched a mutiny in Benin on Dec. 7 that was foiled, with local media reporting 13 soldiers arrested while the status of alleged coup leader Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri remained unclear. Gunfire was heard and soldiers patrolled parts of Cotonou as state TV and public radio signals were briefly cut and later restored; ECOWAS condemned the attempt and pledged to defend Benin’s constitution, and there was no official word on President Patrice Talon’s whereabouts.

West Africa Politics Benin Coup Attempt Benin Politics

Tracy Beth Høeg named acting FDA CDER chief

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The FDA appointed Dr. Tracy Beth Høeg acting director of its Center for Drug Evaluation and Research on Wednesday after Richard Pazdur resigned three weeks into the post. Multiple senior FDA officials told CBS News the move could politicize a science-focused office that oversees U.S. drug approvals and supply, noting Høeg has advised vaccine policy and helped draft a recent internal memo alleging pediatric COVID‑vaccine deaths that drew rebukes from former FDA leaders in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Food and Drug Administration Drug Regulation

ACIP votes 8–3 to end universal Hep B birth dose; separate 6–4–1 vote backs post‑shot antibody testing

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At a contentious Dec. 4–5 meeting, the HHS‑appointed ACIP voted 8–3 to end the longstanding universal hepatitis B birth‑dose recommendation — instead advising a birth dose for infants of HBV‑positive mothers while leaving administration for infants of HBV‑negative or unknown mothers to parent‑clinician decision or delayed dosing — and separately voted 6–4‑1 to recommend post‑vaccination antibody testing to determine whether fewer than three doses are needed. The recommendations, which must be approved by acting CDC director Jim O’Neill, have drawn sharp criticism from pediatric and infectious‑disease experts who warn that screening gaps and modeling estimates (roughly 1,400–2,700 excess infections annually) make rescinding the universal birth dose risky.

CDC/ACIP CDC and Public Health Hepatitis B

CPSC recalls 210,000 INIU power banks for fire risk

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The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced in December 2025 a recall of about 210,000 INIU 100,000mAh portable power banks (model BI-B41) sold on Amazon nationwide after at least 15 overheating incidents, including 11 fires that caused minor burns and property damage. Units with serial numbers 000G21, 000H21, 000I21 and 000L21 are affected; buyers are instructed to stop using them, verify serials on INIU’s recall page for a full refund, and dispose of lithium‑ion batteries through local hazardous‑waste programs.

Product Recalls Consumer Safety

Frank Gehry dies at 96 after brief respiratory illness

4d Breaking 2 Analysis Data

Frank Gehry, the acclaimed architect behind landmark buildings such as the Guggenheim Bilbao, Walt Disney Concert Hall and DZ Bank, died Friday at his Santa Monica home at age 96 after a brief respiratory illness, his death confirmed by Meaghan Lloyd, chief of staff at Gehry Partners LLP. He was a Pritzker Prize laureate and recipient of honors including the RIBA Gold Medal and Companion of the Order of Canada, celebrated for his wildly imaginative, sculptural architecture.

Architecture Frank Gehry Obituaries

Harvard discloses alumni–donor database breach

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Harvard University said it discovered on Nov. 18, 2025 that systems used by Alumni Affairs and Development were accessed by an unauthorized party after a phone-based phishing attack, exposing contact details, donation histories and related records for alumni, donors, some students and faculty. The university says it cut off access and is working to prevent further intrusion, following similar recent breaches reported by Princeton, the University of Pennsylvania and Columbia.

Cybersecurity Higher Education

RSNA study: Ultrasound flags filler vessel blockages

4d 1 Data

At the RSNA meeting in Chicago, researchers reported that Doppler ultrasound can accurately detect vascular occlusions after hyaluronic acid filler injections, enabling targeted treatment to prevent serious harm. In a cohort of 100 patients from six sites (data collected May 2022–April 2025), ultrasound identified blockages—over 40% in perforator vessels and 35% with no flow in major facial arteries—highlighting the nasal region as highest risk and supporting enzyme (hyaluronidase) placement to dissolve filler.

Cosmetic Procedures and Safety Medical Imaging

Pew: X usage drops; Reddit, TikTok surge

4d 1 Analysis Data

Pew Research Center released new survey data on Nov. 28, 2025 showing U.S. social media habits are fragmenting: YouTube (84%), Facebook (71%) and Instagram (50%) remain most used, while Reddit has grown to 26% of adults (from 18% in 2021) as X’s user share declines. Among under‑30s, 63% use TikTok and roughly half use it daily, 58% are on Snapchat, and WhatsApp usage rose to 32% overall, with higher use among Asian and Hispanic users.

Social Media Trends Technology and Platforms

U.S.-brokered direct Israel–Lebanon meeting held in Naqoura amid cease-fire talks

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U.S.-brokered talks in Naqoura marked the first direct, public Israel–Lebanon engagement since 1993, held on the sidelines of a U.S.-led monthly cease-fire monitoring mechanism and convening civilian envoys—including Lebanon’s Simon Karam and Israel’s Uri Resnick—after U.S. diplomats pressed both sides; discussions focused on economic projects to stabilize southern Lebanon. The meeting came amid sharp tensions — including a recent Israeli strike that killed a Hezbollah commander — as Lebanon, which says it is “far from” normalizing ties and reaffirmed the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative, has deployed some 10,000 troops and 200 checkpoints in a phased disarmament plan while demanding Israeli withdrawals from contested outposts and seeking international aid after roughly $11.1 billion in war damage, even as Israel says Beirut is not doing enough to disarm Hezbollah.

Israel–Lebanon Conflict Israel–Lebanon Border U.S. Foreign Policy

Israel identifies Thai hostage Sudhisak Rinthalak’s remains; says only one hostage body remains in Gaza

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Israeli and Thai officials said remains transferred via the ICRC have been forensically identified by Israel’s National Institute of Forensic Medicine as Thai agricultural worker Sudhisak Rinthalak, who was killed on Oct. 7 and whose body was taken into Gaza. With that identification, Israel says only one hostage body remains in Gaza — Master Sgt. Ran Gvili — and officials pledged to coordinate returns and continue efforts to recover the final remains amid ongoing ceasefire tensions.

Hostage Negotiations Israel–Gaza Conflict Middle East conflict

Rollins College student arrested over AR-15 in dorm

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Winter Park police arrested Rollins College senior Constantine Demetriades on Dec. 3, 2025, after the school flagged a 1,500‑round ammunition order and campus safety found an unloaded AR‑15 under his dorm bed with magazines, a tactical vest and knives. He is charged with possession of a weapon on school property; the college says he is banned from campus pending an internal conduct process, and Demetriades told police he is a hobby shooter and did not intend harm.

Campus Safety Gun Laws and Enforcement

Walz, legislative leaders deadlocked on gun special session; another meeting Friday

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Gov. Tim Walz and bipartisan legislative leaders remain deadlocked over whether to call a gun-control special session after Thursday talks produced no agreement and another meeting was scheduled for Friday; DFL lawmakers are pushing to ban new sales of assault-style weapons and high-capacity magazines while GOP leaders say DFL bill language hasn’t been produced and prefer focusing on school security and mental health. Workgroup hearings have been stymied by partisan fights amid emotional testimony from victims’ families, and Walz — who has floated a constitutional amendment and plans a series of town halls (including Waconia) with advocates like Gabby Giffords — continues public outreach as negotiations continue.

Elections Local Government Public Safety

California warns after 21 mushroom poisonings, 1 death

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California officials warned the public after 21 people were sickened and one person died in a cluster of mushroom poisonings concentrated in Monterey and the San Francisco Bay areas, saying the toxin involved is amatoxin (not neutralized by cooking, boiling, drying or freezing) and that at least one patient may require a liver transplant. CDPH director Erica Pan urged people not to forage during the high‑risk rainy season (October–March), noting dangerous species such as the death cap (2–6 inches tall, yellowish‑green) and the destroying angel, and officials advised eating only store‑bought mushrooms or leaving wild mushrooms to extensively trained foragers.

California Public Health Public Health Food Safety

CMS chief warns Minnesota: fix Medicaid fraud or lose funds

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CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz issued a 60‑day ultimatum to Minnesota on Dec. 5, warning Gov. Tim Walz that the federal share of Medicaid payments could be halted unless the state implements anti‑fraud fixes and submits a corrective action plan. Oz cited alleged theft exceeding $1 billion tied to "bad actors" in the Somali community, flagged suspicious spending spikes in Housing Stabilization Services and autism‑related EIDBI programs, and demanded weekly updates, a six‑month enrollment freeze for high‑risk providers, and re‑verification of all current providers.

Medicaid Oversight and Fraud Minnesota Government

USSOUTHCOM posts video of 22nd Eastern Pacific strike killing four; first since Nov. 15

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U.S. Southern Command posted unclassified video of a Dec. 4 Eastern Pacific strike it said killed four people aboard a narcotics‑smuggling vessel operated by a “Designated Terrorist Organization,” calling it the 22nd strike under Operation Southern Spear and the first maritime strike since Nov. 15. The Pentagon said Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the attack, which brings the campaign’s reported death toll to roughly 86–87 and comes amid a wider U.S. military buildup and congressional scrutiny over the legal basis and conduct of the strikes.

Caribbean/Eastern Pacific Strikes U.S. Anti-Drug Military Operations Caribbean Counterdrug Operations

Louisiana jail break: two recaptured/neutralized, manhunt continues for third

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Three inmates escaped a Louisiana jail after removing mortar and concrete blocks from a degraded outer wall, scaling down with sheets and lowering themselves to the ground. Johnathan Jevon Joseph was captured after a foot chase, Joseph Allen Harrington died by suicide during a police standoff, and 24-year-old Keith Eli — charged with attempted second-degree murder — remains at large as a manhunt continues; three jail employees have been placed on administrative leave pending an internal investigation.

Louisiana Crime and Public Safety Louisiana Public Safety

Florida teacher charged with sex crimes against student

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Palm Beach County deputies arrested former Donna Klein Jewish Academy science teacher Elias Gordon Farley, 26, on Dec. 4, alleging he used a shared Google Doc to secretly communicate with and groom a student before engaging in sexual acts at the Boca Raton campus and his apartment. An arrest affidavit cites corroborating surveillance video, a search-warrant find matching the student’s description, and a school report after a staffer saw bruises; Farley is held on $500,000 bond on charges including unlawful sexual activity with a minor and offense against a student by an authority figure.

Crime and Education Florida

18M under winter alerts across West, Midwest

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The National Weather Service says more than 18 million people are under winter weather alerts Saturday as a strong system brings heavy snow to the Northern Rockies and expands into the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest, including 2–5 inches possible in Chicago. Subzero lows are possible in the Dakotas and Minnesota by Sunday night, while Colorado’s mountains face heavy snow and the Pacific Northwest braces for multiple Pacific systems with widespread heavy rain, flood watches, and a multi‑day flooding threat.

Winter Weather National Weather Service

Georgia seeks $390,000 NIL damages from ex-player

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The University of Georgia Athletic Association is pursuing $390,000 in liquidated damages from former defensive end Damon Wilson II, now at Missouri, alleging he breached a buyout clause in his NIL agreement after transferring in January. Legal records show Wilson was recently served; Georgia also asks a judge to compel arbitration, while Wilson’s attorneys argue his move was not financially motivated.

College Sports NIL Courts and Litigation

Refunds open after Woodbury Dental Arts settlement

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Minnesota AG Keith Ellison announced Dec. 6 a settlement with the Woodbury Dental Arts bankruptcy trustee that lets former patients seek refunds from the Consumer Protection Restitution Account for prepaid services never received after the clinic’s abrupt closure. Claims must be filed within 60 days of notice with proof of payment; owner Dr. Marko Kamel has surrendered his dental license and cannot reapply for 10 years following Board of Dentistry actions.

Legal Local Government

Gaza war death toll surpasses 70,000, ministry says

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Gaza’s health ministry says the death toll from the Israel–Hamas war has surpassed 70,000 since the fighting began. Qatar’s prime minister warned the ceasefire is at a critical juncture as the first phase winds down, reporting over 360 Palestinians killed since the Oct. 10 truce began—including two deaths reported by Shifa Hospital and an Israeli account of three militants killed crossing the ceasefire line—and mediators say the second phase has not yet started amid Turkish concerns about the proposed security force composition.

Israel–Gaza Ceasefire U.S. Foreign Policy Israel–Hamas War

U.S. mass killings hit lowest since 2006; 17 so far in 2025

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According to the AP–USA Today–Northeastern database, the U.S. has recorded 17 mass killings so far in 2025 — the fewest since the tracking began in 2006 — with 14 of those incidents involving firearms and roughly two‑thirds of mass killings occurring in or around private homes. Experts say the decline likely reflects a regression to the mean after 2018–19 spikes rather than a durable safety trend, note that none of 2025’s cases were at schools, and point to factors such as improved trauma response and new school threat‑assessment laws in 22 states (as well as parallel declines in mass‑shooting counts tracked by the Gun Violence Archive) as possible contributors.

Gun Violence and Public Safety Public Safety Gun Violence in America

FDA, Abbott warn Libre 3 sensors can give false lows; 7 deaths, 736 injuries

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The FDA and Abbott warned that some FreeStyle Libre 3 continuous glucose monitoring sensors can produce falsely low glucose readings, a problem linked to seven deaths and 736 serious injuries. Abbott said all seven deaths occurred outside the U.S., 57 of the 736 injuries were reported in the U.S., about 1.5 million of roughly 3 million affected sensors are estimated to have already expired or been used, and users should immediately stop using and dispose of affected lots, verify lot numbers at FreeStyleCheck.com, and request free replacements.

Diabetes Care Technology FDA Recalls Medical Devices

SIGAR: U.S.-funded gear left behind forms 'core' of Taliban security apparatus

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A SIGAR report says U.S.-funded equipment, weapons and facilities left behind after the 2021 withdrawal have “formed the core of the Taliban security apparatus.” The Pentagon estimated roughly $7.1 billion in material and equipment was left, a prior watchdog found 316,260 weapons (about $511.8 million) in Afghan stocks though their operational status was unclear, and SIGAR added that the ANDSF’s dependence on U.S. support stemmed in part from designing the force as a mirror of U.S. forces.

Afghanistan Reconstruction Afghanistan Withdrawal Government Oversight

Israel-backed Gaza militia leader Yasser Abu Shabab killed in clan clash near Rafah

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Yasser Abu Shabab, leader of the Popular Forces militia in Gaza who was widely seen as Israel-backed and had fought Hamas, was killed during clashes with a Palestinian clan near Rafah in southern Gaza. Israeli officials say they helped arm his militia (a claim he denied), and Abu Shabab had acknowledged security coordination with Israel to prevent Hamas infiltration; the Hamas-run Interior Ministry celebrated his death as the "inevitable fate of every traitor" and urged other Israel-aligned militants to surrender as he operated in an area under Israeli military control.

Palestinian Militias Israel–Hamas Conflict Israel–Gaza Conflict

Study links 3–4 cups coffee to slower aging

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Researchers at King’s College London report in BMJ Mental Health that among 436 adults with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or psychotic depression, drinking up to four cups of coffee daily was associated with longer telomeres—markers of cellular aging—equating to about five years younger biological age versus non‑drinkers. The observational study, published in late November 2025, found benefits peaked at three to four cups and reversed above four cups, aligning with FDA guidance of roughly 400 mg/day caffeine.

Public Health Research Coffee and Caffeine Mental Health

Minneapolis bans city property for ICE staging

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Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey signed an executive order this week prohibiting law enforcement from using city‑owned parking lots, ramps, garages and vacant lots to stage civil immigration enforcement operations, as the city braces for an ICE action focused on Somali visa‑fraud cases. City staff are also sharing a notice template that businesses and homeowners can display to deter civil immigration enforcement on private property.

Sanctuary Policies Immigration Enforcement

L.A. County to aid workers fearing ICE raids

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Los Angeles County officials approved an emergency declaration that will cover living expenses for residents who miss work due to fear of immigration raids and began accepting aid requests in December. The move is part of broader sanctuary‑style measures cities and counties are adopting in response to heightened federal immigration enforcement.

Los Angeles County Government Sanctuary Policies

Hong Kong security office warns foreign journalists over coverage

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Hong Kong’s Office for Safeguarding National Security summoned representatives and journalists from foreign outlets, including The New York Times, on Saturday to warn of consequences under the national security law for reporting on last month’s Wang Fuk Court fire and Sunday’s legislative elections. Officials read a statement accusing some international coverage of distorting facts and interfering in Hong Kong affairs, said “Do not say you have not been warned,” and later posted the warning on the office’s website.

Hong Kong National Security Law Press Freedom

Rep. Harris files Homeschool Graduation Recognition Act

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Rep. Mark Harris (R‑N.C.) said Wednesday he introduced the Homeschool Graduation Recognition Act to amend federal law so homeschool graduates are explicitly recognized as high‑school graduates for college admissions. Harris argues an outdated heading in 20 U.S.C. §1091(d) has prompted some colleges to add extra hurdles for homeschoolers, citing Molloy University’s requirement for a district letter or a GED; he says the bill would ensure homeschool applicants are treated the same as other students who meet test and application requirements.

U.S. Congress Higher Education Admissions

St. Paul declares snow emergency

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St. Paul has declared a snow emergency and moved into the enforcement phase, with city officials ticketing and towing vehicles that violate snow-emergency parking rules. During the recent snow emergency the city issued 3,253 tickets and towed 952 vehicles.

Weather Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

House passes pediatric cancer trial expansion bill

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The House of Representatives unanimously passed the Mikaela Naylon Give Kids A Chance Act on Monday, a bipartisan measure to expand children’s access to cancer therapy trials and spur development of pediatric treatments. The bill reauthorizes NIH funding for pediatric disease research through FY2027 and extends the FDA’s authority to expedite review of certain pediatric drugs; it is named after teen advocate Mikaela Naylon, who died from osteosarcoma.

U.S. Congress Pediatric Cancer

Senate votes to overturn Biden ANWR restrictions

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The U.S. Senate on Dec. 4 passed a Congressional Review Act resolution sponsored by Rep. Nick Begich to overturn a Biden-era rule that restricted development on more than 1 million acres within the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). Sen. Maria Cantwell opposed the measure as risking legal and regulatory chaos, while Alaska Native group Voice of the Arctic Iñupiat and Kaktovik’s mayor praised the vote as supporting self-determination and responsible development in their homelands.

Congress and Energy Policy Alaska and ANWR

Russia launches massive drone–missile barrage in Ukraine

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Ukrainian officials said Saturday that Russia fired more than 650 drones and 51 missiles across multiple cities overnight, as Moscow also claimed it had seized the strategic city of Pokrovsk after months of fighting. The surge in strikes and battlefield claims came as U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff continued 'constructive' Miami talks with a Ukrainian delegation on President Trump’s revised peace plan, with another session expected Saturday.

Ukraine War National Security

U.S. halts South Africa aid, adds tariffs

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The New York Times reports that President Trump has halted U.S. foreign aid to South Africa, imposed 30% tariffs on South African imports, and said last month that South Africa will not be welcome at the 2026 G20 summit in Florida, citing alleged persecution of Afrikaners. The administration has also tightened refugee policy to effectively favor Afrikaners, while Afrikaner leaders gained unusual access to U.S. officials in Washington and Pretoria, including meetings with the vice president’s office and State Department.

U.S.–South Africa Relations Trade Policy and Tariffs

Light snow Saturday for Twin Cities metro

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FOX 9 meteorologists say a Saturday afternoon clipper will brush the Twin Cities with a trace to about 1 inch of snow after 2 p.m., while a winter weather advisory covers all of southern Minnesota where higher totals are expected. Snow should taper for everyone overnight, with the heaviest amounts near the Minnesota–Iowa border and some north Iowa counties topping 6 inches.

Weather

Border Patrol to impose $5,000 apprehension fee

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U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks said Thursday that nearly all detained illegal immigrants aged 14 and older who entered without inspection will be charged a $5,000 'apprehension fee,' citing authority in the July 'big, beautiful bill.' The policy, announced in an X post, applies regardless of how long a person has been in the U.S. or any ongoing proceedings, and comes as a new lawsuit challenges separate daily civil penalties; DHS has also set a $1,000 fee for parolees and launched a self-deportation incentive.

Immigration Enforcement Department of Homeland Security

Florida launches first black bear hunt since 2015

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Florida opened its first regulated black bear hunting season in a decade on Dec. 6, 2025, after the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission issued 172 permits via lottery for zone‑specific quotas through Dec. 28. The move follows roughly 160,000 applications and includes tighter rules than 2015; opponents failed to halt the hunt in court and say at least 43 permits were secured by critics who won’t use them to reduce bear kills, while the state cites a bear population now exceeding 4,000.

Florida Wildlife Policy Hunting and Conservation

Texas AG sues EPIC City developers for fraud

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Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a Collin County lawsuit against the East Plano Islamic Center, Community Capital Partners and associated leaders, alleging an illegal securities and land‑development scheme tied to the proposed 400‑acre 'EPIC City' (now 'The Meadow'). The suit cites unregistered securities sales, broad solicitation that undercut claimed exemptions, misleading location and religion‑targeted marketing, undisclosed $360,000 CEO compensation, and misuse of investor funds, and seeks an asset freeze, receiver, corrected statements, penalties and restitution.

State AG Enforcement Real Estate Development

FAA probes airline compliance with shutdown cuts

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The FAA notified U.S. airlines on Monday that it is investigating whether carriers complied with Trump administration emergency orders to reduce flights by 3%–6% at 40 major airports during the 43‑day government shutdown, warning fines of $75,000 per flight over the allotment. Airlines have 30 days to prove compliance; the agency lifted restrictions Nov. 16, and data from Cirium indicate only 2% of flights were cut on Nov. 14 despite a 6% requirement, while Delta reported a $200 million loss from Nov. 7–16.

Federal Aviation Administration U.S. Airlines

Trump orders review to align childhood vaccine schedule with other developed countries

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President Trump has ordered a review of the U.S. childhood vaccine schedule, directing HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the CDC director to fast-track a comparison of core childhood-vaccine practices in peer developed countries and to update the American schedule if other countries’ approaches are judged "better," while preserving access to currently available vaccines; the directive follows a CDC panel’s withdrawal of the universal infant hepatitis B birth recommendation. Trump praised the panel on Truth Social, Kennedy replied on X "Thank you, Mr. President. We’re on it," and the American Medical Association’s Sandra Adamson Fryhofer called the hepatitis B decision "reckless" and not based on scientific evidence.

Vaccines and Immunization Policy Vaccines and Public Health Policy Donald Trump

CDC: U.S. measles cases top 1,800 in 2025

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CDC data show the U.S. has recorded more than 1,800 measles cases so far in 2025, the most in over 30 years, with infections confirmed in at least 39 states. The largest outbreak was in West Texas with more than 760 cases and two pediatric deaths among unvaccinated children before the state declared it over in August; New Mexico reported one adult death. Health officials cite declining MMR coverage among kindergarteners (about 92.7% in 2023–24 vs. 95.2% in 2019–20), while HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. publicly urged measles vaccination though opposed mandates.

Public Health Vaccines and Immunization

NYC teen detained on federal arson charge in subway burning; judge reverses release

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An 18-year-old high school student, Hiram Carrero, was arrested and charged in federal court with arson after authorities say he set a homeless subway rider on fire early on a northbound 3 train near 34th St–Penn Station; the victim remains in critical condition after exiting at Times Square with legs and torso on fire. U.S. District Judge Valerie E. Caproni ordered Carrero detained after prosecutors appealed a magistrate’s decision to release him to home confinement; the case—investigated by the ATF’s New York Arson and Explosives Task Force with the NYPD and FDNY—carries a minimum seven-year sentence if convicted and has a preliminary hearing set for Jan. 4 unless a federal grand jury indicts sooner.

New York City Federal Courts Crime and Public Transportation

NFL sets 2028 deadline for uniform field standards

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The NFL announced a league-wide plan to bring every stadium’s playing surface up to enhanced safety and performance standards, with a compliance deadline in 2028 and a library of approved, accredited field systems provided to clubs before the 2026 season. Both grass and synthetic fields must meet metrics validated by lab and on‑site testing — including BEAST traction and STRIKE impact devices — under a red‑yellow‑green rating framework approved by a joint NFL–NFLPA committee; the league said new fields must meet the standards immediately and existing fields have two years to comply, while noting it will not mandate natural grass.

NFL Sports Safety

Texas DPS finds 30 handguns in spare tire

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Texas DPS says special agents, working with CBP and HSI, seized 30 handguns hidden in a spare tire during a Wednesday morning inspection at the Anzalduas Port of Entry in Mission, Texas, and arrested driver Luis E. Torres Mujica, 30, of Guanajuato, Mexico, and passenger Jesse Joe Camacho, 28, of McAllen. Officials reported 60 magazines and a speed loader were also recovered, one pistol was stolen out of Austin, and the guns were allegedly bound for Guanajuato; both men face theft of property and second‑degree felony firearm‑smuggling charges.

Border Security Gun Trafficking

FAA hires Peraton for ATC overhaul

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The FAA has selected Peraton to lead a multi‑year overhaul of the nation’s air‑traffic control systems, a move with implications for Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport and travelers across the Twin Cities. Announced in a Dec. 5 TwinCities.com report, the award positions Peraton to manage core modernization work the FAA says is needed to improve safety, reliability and capacity.

Transit & Infrastructure Technology

FAA eases nationwide flight cuts to 3%; MSP still under limits

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The FAA has scaled back its mandated flight‑capacity reductions at 40 major U.S. airports from a planned 10% ramp (held at 6%) to 3% as controller attendance improved, but the order — in effect since Nov. 7 amid unpaid air traffic controllers, staffing shortages and missed paychecks — remains in place and continues to limit operations at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International (MSP). The cuts and earlier staffing shortfalls have caused widespread delays and thousands of cancellations nationwide (dozens at MSP), prompted airlines to offer refunds and waivers, and spurred an FAA probe into carriers’ handling of the reductions.

Government & Politics Transit & Infrastructure Government

FAA probes airlines over shutdown flight cuts

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The Federal Aviation Administration opened an investigation on December 5, 2025 into how U.S. airlines implemented FAA-ordered flight reductions during the federal shutdown, a move that could affect carriers serving Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport. The agency previously imposed nationwide cutbacks that included MSP; the probe will review carriers’ compliance and could lead to enforcement actions.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Texas releases unredacted 911 calls from July 4 floods

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Texas has released unredacted 911 calls from the July 4 floods that capture chaotic, desperate pleas for rescue and confirm some callers did not survive, as officials reported at least 136 deaths statewide, including 117 in Kerr County. The recordings — more than 400 calls handled overnight by just two dispatchers — include a firefighter, Bradley Perry, reporting he was trapped in a tree before later dying while his wife Tina survived, note that Camp La Junta campers were rescued, and list a toll at Camp Mystic of 25 campers and two teen counselors; a spokesperson for families of Camp Mystic victims declined to comment on the release.

Public Records and Transparency Emergency Response and 911 Texas Hill Country Floods

OMB reviews 2030 census race, ethnicity standards

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OMB Chief Statistician Mark Calabria said Dec. 5 the Trump administration has begun reviewing 2024-approved federal standards for collecting race and ethnicity, including for the 2030 census, potentially reconsidering new Middle Eastern/North African and Hispanic/Latino checkboxes and the combined race/ethnicity question. The review follows OMB’s September notice extending agencies’ compliance deadline into 2029 while stating the Biden-era revisions remain in effect; advocates warn changes could undermine data used for redistricting and civil-rights enforcement.

Census and Demographics Federal Policy and Regulation

SSA aims to halve field office visits in 2026

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The Social Security Administration plans to reduce in‑person field office visits by 50% in FY2026 — capping them at about 15 million — according to a November internal operating plan shared with the AP, citing rising use of online and phone services. A spokesperson said offices remain front‑line service points, but unions warn the target, recent rural closures, and at least 7,000 layoffs this year could limit access for people who cannot navigate digital systems; the plan also sets a new goal to schedule all requested appointments within 30 days.

Social Security Federal Workforce

FRA okays weekly rail track inspections using tech

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The Federal Railroad Administration on Friday approved a waiver allowing U.S. freight railroads to reduce manual track inspections to as little as once per week when they employ automated track-geometry inspection systems, rejecting industry requests to cut human checks to twice monthly and to allow three days to repair defects. FRA’s decision requires immediate repairs of serious defects and fixes for all defects within 24 hours, as unions warn safety risks could rise and railroads cite BNSF and Norfolk Southern pilots showing improved safety under reduced manual inspections.

Rail Safety and Regulation Federal Railroad Administration

AG Ellison to mediate UMN–M Physicians–Fairview talks; parties resume negotiations

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The University of Minnesota, Fairview Health Services and M Physicians agreed to resume talks over the medical school’s future funding and clinical partnership with Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison managing the negotiations and naming a team to assist and help select a mutually agreed mediator. The move follows a contentious standoff — Fairview and M Physicians had announced a roughly $1 billion, “foundational and binding” framework they aim to finalize by end of 2025, while UMN regents unanimously criticized the pact as an overreach (calling it a “hostile takeover”), passed a resolution directing negotiations with the university and prompted the removal of M Physicians leader Dr. Greg Beilman from a UMN vice president post.

Local Government Health Business & Economy

St. Louis Park schools issue ICE guidance

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After rumors on Thursday that ICE agents were outside St. Louis Park school buildings, the district said it found no evidence of ICE presence, increased supervision, and sent families guidance on what would happen if federal agents do come to schools. Officials said schools do not collect immigration status, visitors must use main entrances, and only a judge‑signed order would compel action; they urged families to keep contacts updated and consider a preparedness plan (including DOPA, reconnection steps, and emergency kits).

Education Public Safety

HHS alters Rachel Levine portrait name

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HHS confirmed it changed the official portrait label of former Assistant Secretary for Health Adm. Rachel L. Levine at its Washington headquarters to display her previous name during the recent federal shutdown. In a statement to NPR, HHS spokesperson Andrew Nixon said the department aims to ensure information reflects 'gold standard science' and committed to 'reversing harmful policies enacted by Levine' and to having 'biological reality' guide public health, while an HHS staffer criticized the move as disrespectful and Levine declined to engage beyond noting her service.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services LGBTQ Policy

House Democrats back bill limiting ICE detention

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Reps. Pramila Jayapal and Adam Smith introduced the Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act with support from more than 120 House Democrats, proposing to repeal mandatory immigration detention, create a presumption of release for some groups, and phase out private detention facilities by about 2029. The bill would also require DHS to allow members of Congress unannounced access to detention centers. A contractors’ trade group, the Day 1 Alliance, criticized the measure as effectively ending immigration enforcement.

U.S. Immigration Policy U.S. Congress

EU fines X $140M for DSA violations

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The European Commission fined Elon Musk’s X about $140 million (120 million euros) for breaching the EU’s Digital Services Act, finding the platform used a deceptive paid blue‑check design, maintained a poorly functioning ads repository, and failed to provide effective researcher data access — the Commission called this the first non‑compliance decision under the DSA. EC spokesperson Thomas Regnier announced the penalty and contrasted X’s stance with TikTok’s concessions while denying any targeting of U.S. firms; Musk says he will legally challenge the sanctions, and U.S. politicians including Sen. Marco Rubio and JD Vance have criticized the fine as an attack or censorship — the DSA allows fines up to 6% of worldwide annual revenue and X serves over 100 million EU users.

X (Twitter) EU Digital Services Act Elon Musk and X

New Orleans police won’t enforce civil immigration law

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The New Orleans police chief was criticized after comments suggesting the department would not enforce federal civil immigration laws ahead of planned ICE operations. Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry sent a letter urging NOPD to immediately direct officers to fully cooperate with ICE and CBP, warning that noncooperation could constitute felony malfeasance under the state’s 2024 ban on sanctuary policies as City Council unrest and protests accompany the federal surge.

Policing and Public Safety Immigration Enforcement

FRA eases track inspection rules nationwide

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The Federal Railroad Administration finalized a rule on Dec. 5, 2025, allowing railroads to reduce some manual track inspections if they use approved technology to detect defects. The nationwide change applies to rail lines that run through the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro, shifting more inspection responsibility to sensors and automated systems while the FRA says safety standards will be maintained.

Transit & Infrastructure Government/Regulatory

Eagan opens Veteran Village for homeless veterans

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A new Veteran Village in Eagan opened Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, providing housing and support for veterans experiencing homelessness in Dakota County. The facility’s launch expands local capacity to serve unhoused veterans in the south Twin Cities metro.

Housing Local Government

Study flags 168 chemicals harming gut bacteria

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University of Cambridge researchers reported Tuesday in Nature Microbiology that 168 common chemicals—from pesticides and plastic additives to flame retardants—can inhibit beneficial human gut bacteria. The team screened 1,076 contaminants against 22 bacterial species and built a machine‑learning model to predict microbiome toxicity, noting exposures can occur via food, water and environmental contact while calling for real‑world exposure data and microbiome safety testing of consumer chemicals.

Environmental Health Microbiome Research

Minimum wages to rise across U.S. in 2026

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A new NELP report says minimum wages will increase in 22 states and 66 cities/counties in 2026, with changes taking effect in 19 states and 49 localities on January 1 and additional boosts in four states and 22 cities later in the year. Sixty jurisdictions will have at least a $15 minimum on Jan. 1, and some areas will hit $17 or more, including NYC/Long Island/Westchester at $17 and New Jersey long‑term care workers at $18.92, as many increases are indexed to inflation while the federal minimum remains $7.25.

Labor and Wages U.S. Economy

Iran fires missiles in Gulf military drills

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Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Navy conducted missile exercises in the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman on Thursday and Friday, launching ballistic and cruise missiles — including Qadr 110, 380 and 360 — at simulated targets, according to Iranian state media and Reuters. The drills, Iran’s second since the June Israel–Iran war, showcased strike footage and were framed as deterrence, in waters where the U.S. 5th Fleet patrols to keep vital oil shipping lanes open.

Iran Military Exercises Persian Gulf Security

NJ court permanently bars ex-Sen. Menendez

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New Jersey Superior Court Judge Robert Lougy permanently barred former U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez from holding any public office or position of public trust in New Jersey, the state attorney general announced. The order follows Menendez’s July 2024 conviction on 16 counts and his 11-year sentence in January 2025 for taking bribes in gold and cash and acting as a foreign agent; AG Matt Platkin said Menendez would face a fourth-degree contempt charge if he ever applies for public office.

Bob Menendez Public Corruption

Gymnasts sue USA Gymnastics, SafeSport over coach abuse

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Gymnasts have sued USA Gymnastics and the U.S. Center for SafeSport, alleging both failed to protect athletes from coach Sean Gardner and that USA Gymnastics knew as early as 2017 he posed a "serious & present danger" but did not warn parents. The complaint details alleged grooming and abusive behaviors at a Mississippi gym — including long mandatory hugs, retaliation, closed‑door meetings, kissing gymnasts' foreheads, sexual jokes, inappropriate social‑media conduct, excessive drinking around minors and stalking — and says investigators who seized devices in late May found, per sealed court documents, hidden‑camera images of girls about 6–14 who were nude, using the toilet, or changing into leotards; USA Gymnastics declined to comment due to ongoing litigation.

Sexual Abuse in Sports USA Gymnastics

Jan. 6 pipe bomb suspect Brian Cole Jr. ordered detained at first D.C. court appearance

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Federal authorities arrested 30-year-old Brian Cole Jr. of Woodbridge, Virginia, Thursday in connection with two pipe bombs placed near the DNC and RNC on Jan. 5, 2021, charging him with transporting an explosive device across state lines and attempted malicious destruction by means of an explosive device. At his initial D.C. federal court appearance Dec. 5, Magistrate Judge Moxila Upadhyaya ordered Cole detained; he did not enter a plea, is due back Dec. 15, and prosecutors say the case rests on bank and purchase records, cell‑site and license‑plate data and items seized in searches after a re‑review of existing evidence. AP reported that Cole confessed and reportedly expressed belief the 2020 election was stolen; his attorney is private counsel John Shoreman.

Jan. 6 Investigations Law Enforcement and Courts Federal Courts/DOJ

Putin’s New Delhi visit yields labor pact and oil pledge amid U.S. tariffs and EU bans

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During his New Delhi visit, Vladimir Putin and Narendra Modi announced an expansion of economic ties — including a labor mobility deal to allow more Indian nationals to work in Russia, free electronic visas for Russian tourists, cooperation on civil nuclear, clean energy, shipbuilding and fertilizers, and steps toward an India–Eurasian Economic Union free-trade agreement — as bilateral trade stood at $68.7 billion last fiscal year. Putin also pledged Russia would continue “uninterrupted” fuel shipments to India even as Indian refiners have curbed Russian crude purchases after the U.S. doubled tariffs on India and new EU bans on refined products prompted exporters like Reliance to halt some Russian purchases, amid reports of sanction‑evasion practices by oil vessels.

India–Russia Relations U.S. Sanctions and Tariffs U.S. Foreign Policy

Nature retracts climate–economy paper; 2100 GDP-loss estimate slashed after data error

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Nature has retracted a high-profile climate–economy paper after a data error was found that, when corrected (removing Uzbekistan), reduced the 2100 global GDP-loss estimate from about 62% to roughly 23%; the study had also circulated a widely cited mid-range projection of roughly $38 trillion per year in damages by 2049. Nature posted an editor’s note on Nov. 6 and issued a full retraction this week, and the authors say they intend to resubmit a revised version.

Climate Economics Scientific Retractions Climate Change

Supreme Court takes Trump birthright case

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The U.S. Supreme Court agreed on Dec. 5, 2025, to hear a challenge to President Donald Trump’s order seeking to limit birthright citizenship, setting up a constitutional ruling this term. The outcome could directly affect families in the Twin Cities whose children were born in Minnesota to non‑citizen parents, as well as access to documents and services dependent on citizenship status.

Legal Immigration

St. Paul school bus, LRT collide; student hurt

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Metro Transit says a school bus and a light-rail train collided around 9:30 a.m. Friday at University Ave W and Western Ave N in St. Paul, sending one student to the hospital with minor injuries as a precaution. A witness told authorities the bus driver ran a red light; Metro Transit Police and the Minnesota State Patrol are investigating, and another bus transported the remaining students to school.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

GOP senators press Rubio to tighten Afghan vetting

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Several Senate Republicans sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging an overhaul of vetting for Afghan evacuees after the late‑November shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. The lawmakers cite Department of War inspector general findings of vetting gaps under Operation Allies Refuge/Welcome and demand the administration identify evacuees with significant security concerns and seek their removal, referencing the charges against suspect Rahmanullah Lakanwal.

Immigration Policy Congress National Security

California to ban all plastic grocery bags in 2026

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California will prohibit grocery, pharmacy, liquor and convenience stores from providing both thin single-use plastic bags and thicker ‘reusable’ plastic film bags starting Jan. 1, 2026, under SB 270 and a new update, SB 1053. Paper bags may be offered for at least 10 cents and must reach 50% post-consumer recycled content by Jan. 1, 2028, a shift that follows a 2022 AG probe finding most recycling facilities do not accept plastic carry-out bags.

California Environmental Policy Plastics and Recycling

D.C. Circuit upholds Trump firings at NLRB, MSPB

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In a 2–1 decision on Dec. 5, 2025, the D.C. Circuit ruled President Trump lawfully removed Democratic members Cathy Harris (Merit Systems Protection Board) and Gwynne Wilcox (National Labor Relations Board), holding both agencies wield significant executive power despite statutes permitting removal only for cause. The majority opinion by Judge Gregory Katsas contrasted with a dissent from Judge Florence Pan warning of politicization; the ruling follows a May Supreme Court stay and comes days before the Court hears a related case on presidential removal limits.

Presidential Removal Power Federal Courts Labor Boards

IHME: Under‑5 deaths to rise in 2025

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The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation projects global under‑age‑5 mortality will increase in 2025 for the first time this century, to about 4.8 million deaths from 4.6 million in 2024, largely linked to a historic drop in health-focused foreign aid. NPR reports the model, detailed by IHME’s Dr. Steve Lim, attributes the reversal to a 26% cut in international health aid — with the U.S., U.K., France and Germany among donors reducing funding — while limited increases from some contributors do not offset the shortfall.

Global Child Mortality U.S. Foreign Aid

CBS: Trump’s $20T investment claims inflated

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A CBS News review finds no evidence to support President Trump’s recent claims that $18–$21 trillion has been newly invested or committed to the U.S. since he took office, noting the White House’s own tally of $9.6 trillion includes double-counts and Biden-era projects. Companies including Micron and GlobalFoundries confirmed large portions of cited investments were announced under President Biden and backed by CHIPS Act funding or credits, while federal data show total corporate investment on pace to exceed $5 trillion in 2025.

Donald Trump U.S. Economy

Medical examiner rules Anna Kepner’s death a homicide by mechanical asphyxia; FBI probe continues

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Miami‑Dade records and a family‑provided copy of Anna Kepner’s death certificate list the 18‑year‑old Florida cheerleader’s cause and manner of death as mechanical asphyxiation and homicide; she was found Nov. 7 aboard the Carnival Horizon under a bed, wrapped in a blanket and covered with life jackets, and has since been cremated. The FBI’s Miami Field Office is leading the investigation — reviewing ship surveillance, key‑card logs and phone records — and court filings identify a 16‑year‑old stepbrother as a person of interest though no arrests or charges have been announced, with related custody hearings and subpoenas ongoing.

Florida Crime FBI Investigations Federal Law Enforcement

Light snow causes 100 crashes, 1 fatality Friday morning

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Light snow, ice and slush across Minnesota contributed to 100 property-damage crashes between midnight and 9 a.m. Friday, including 64 vehicles off the road, 10 spinouts, two jackknifed semis and five injury crashes. One person died in a two-vehicle crash on Hwy 67 near 190th Ave north of Wood Lake just after 8 a.m., and MnDOT said side streets and ramps were the slickest in the Twin Cities.

Transit & Infrastructure Weather Public Safety

White House hosts ‘Washington Accords’ Rwanda–DRC signing; Trump vows U.S. rare earth purchases

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At a Dec. 4 ceremony hosted by the White House at the newly renamed Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace (formerly the U.S. Institute of Peace), President Trump welcomed Rwandan President Paul Kagame and DRC President Félix Tshisekedi to sign the U.S.-brokered "Washington Accords," formally ratifying a June agreement that aims for a permanent ceasefire, disarmament of non‑state forces, refugee returns and expanded economic cooperation — including Trump’s pledge that the U.S. will buy rare‑earth and other critical minerals from Rwanda and the DRC. The event unfolded amid controversy over the forced renaming and takeover of USIP and ongoing court challenges and layoffs, and came as fighting in eastern DRC — notably intensified shelling around Kamanyola and rejection of the deal by groups like M23 — underscored that core security conditions remain unmet.

U.S. Institute of Peace DRC–Rwanda Peace Deal DRC–Rwanda Conflict

ADP: U.S. private payrolls fall 32,000

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ADP reported U.S. private payrolls fell by 32,000 in November, with its three‑month average at −4,700 jobs — a sign of flatlining conditions concentrated at the smallest firms. Broader labor measures show modest cooling (Chicago Fed real‑time unemployment 4.44%, four‑week initial claims ≈215,000, and Bank of America data showing payroll growth slowed to +0.2% year‑over‑year), and BofA economists attribute the weakness more to supply constraints than to a large wave of layoffs.

Federal Reserve Federal Reserve and Interest Rates U.S. Labor Market

Trump-linked group funds Utah ballot measure

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A nonprofit tied to President Trump, Securing American Greatness, has contributed $4.35 million over the last six weeks to a Utah committee backing a ballot measure to repeal the state’s anti-gerrymandering law, according to state campaign finance records. The spending aims to help Republicans recapture a House seat projected to flip to Democrats next year and offers an early signal of how Trump’s sizable war chest could be deployed to shape GOP fortunes after he leaves office.

Donald Trump Campaign Finance Redistricting and Gerrymandering

Minnesota flagged food-aid fraud in 2019

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Multiple former Minnesota Department of Education employees told CBS News they spotted signs of fraud tied to Feeding Our Future in July 2019—months before COVID—then faced pressure from the nonprofit’s leader, Aimee Bock, to ease scrutiny. Prosecutors say FOF ultimately falsely claimed 91 million meals and received nearly $250 million before FBI raids in January 2022; the scandal has yielded 61 convictions and 78 total charges, and a 2020 FOF discrimination suit against the state was dismissed after the federal probe became public.

Feeding Our Future Fraud Minnesota Government Oversight

Ireland probes drone incursion during Zelenskyy visit

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Ireland is investigating unidentified large drones that breached airspace near Dublin Airport late Dec. 1 as Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived, with officials classifying the event as a hybrid attack, according to Irish media and a statement to CBS News. The Irish military and police mounted a joint security operation that ensured a safe visit; reports say four military‑style drones entered a no‑fly zone along the plane’s expected path and later circled an Irish Navy vessel, amid a broader European pattern of mystery drones near critical sites.

European Security and Hybrid Warfare Ukraine–Russia War

CDC advisers ease Hep B birth‑dose mandate

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The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices voted Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, to recommend that not all newborns require a hepatitis B vaccination at birth, allowing deferral in certain low‑risk cases (such as when the mother tests negative for hepatitis B surface antigen). The change, pending formal CDC adoption, would require Minnesota hospitals and clinics to update newborn vaccination protocols in coordination with the Minnesota Department of Health.

Health

Judge orders pardoned Jan. 6 defendant Taranto back to Washington state after alleged Raskin sighting; detention request under review

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A federal judge ordered Jan. 6 defendant Taylor Taranto — who was pardoned by former President Trump — to immediately return to his home in Washington state after probation officers reported he was allegedly seen by local police near Rep. Jamie Raskin’s home, prompting heightened security for Raskin. Judge Carl Nichols said he will consider prosecutors’ request to detain Taranto, who must attend a Dec. 10 probation hearing and pledged to drive back by noon Friday, as prosecutors cited mental‑health concerns and alleged supervised‑release violations.

Federal Courts January 6 Cases Jan. 6 Cases

Feds charge Minneapolis man in Bloomington kidnapping-rape; AG, U.S. attorney cite serial assaults

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Federal authorities have charged Abdimahat Bille Mohamed in a Bloomington kidnapping-rape, alleging probable cause that he committed multiple sexual assaults — including gang rapes — involving at least five victims from 2017 to 2025. U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen vowed to "aggressively prosecute this serial rapist," and U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi criticized prior local release decisions that left Mohamed, who was on probation from two earlier Minneapolis sex‑assault convictions (one involving a 15‑year‑old), free when the September incident occurred.

Public Safety Legal

Colombia seizes 7.1 tons of cocaine; 11 held

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Colombia’s navy said Wednesday it seized about 7.1 tons of cocaine in two Caribbean operations—one 90 nautical miles off Barranquilla and another in the Gulf of Morrosquillo—arresting 11 suspects without injuries and valuing the haul at more than $340 million. The announcement comes as the U.S. continues lethal maritime strikes on suspected drug‑running boats, including a Thursday Pacific strike that killed four, amid rising scrutiny over a Sept. 2 Caribbean strike.

Drug Trafficking and Interdictions U.S. Anti-Drug Operations

Meta inks AI licensing deals with publishers

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Meta said Friday it signed multiyear, compensated AI data agreements with news outlets including USA Today, People Inc., CNN, Fox News, The Daily Caller, Washington Examiner and Le Monde to feed real‑time answers in its Meta AI chatbot across Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Messenger. The deals, similar to a previously announced Reuters agreement, include source attribution and links back to publisher articles, with Meta planning additional partners and features over time.

Meta Platforms Media and AI

Interior cuts Christmas tree, firewood permit fees

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The U.S. Department of the Interior, led by Secretary Doug Burgum, announced a holiday affordability effort reducing or waiving Bureau of Land Management fees through Jan. 31, including a “one dollar, one tree” policy setting Christmas tree and firewood permits at $1 each. The plan opens new cutting areas near communities, military bases, tribal lands and rural counties, raises household limits to up to 10 cords and three trees (with flexibility to remove caps), and is framed as both cost relief and hazardous fuel reduction amid wildfire risk.

U.S. Department of the Interior Public Lands and Wildfire Prevention

Mandela Barnes launches Wisconsin governor bid

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Former Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes announced Tuesday he is running for governor to succeed retiring Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, entering as a likely frontrunner in a crowded Democratic primary. Barnes, who narrowly lost a 2022 U.S. Senate race to Republican Ron Johnson, immediately drew fire from GOP Rep. Tom Tiffany, who labeled him a 'far-left extremist' and said voters would reject him again in 2026.

Wisconsin Politics 2026 Elections

Study links obesity to faster Alzheimer’s biomarkers

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Researchers from Washington University School of Medicine reported at the RSNA meeting in Chicago that Alzheimer’s blood biomarkers increased 95% faster over five years in people with obesity compared to non‑obese peers, based on 407 participants in the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative. PET scans in the same cohort showed greater amyloid plaque buildup in those with obesity, suggesting higher Alzheimer’s disease burden over time. The authors, Drs. Soheil Mohammadi and Cyrus Raji, said the results underscore the role of whole‑body health in brain health and called for future prevention trials, potentially including GLP‑1 drugs earlier in life.

Alzheimer's Disease Obesity and Metabolic Health

Trump calls Japan PM after Xi call

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After speaking with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, Donald Trump phoned Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Takaichi said. In the Nov. 24 Xi–Trump call Xi told Trump that "Taiwan's return to China is an integral part of the post‑war international order" — a point Trump did not include in his public post — and Beijing has since mounted diplomatic and economic pressure on Japan, including UN protest letters, halted seafood imports, a travel advisory and canceled cultural events, amid tensions sparked by Takaichi's earlier remarks about a potential Chinese blockade of Taiwan.

Taiwan China–Japan Relations Indo-Pacific Security

Study: Rents up 41% in major U.S. cities

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A new LendingTree analysis of HUD fair-market rents finds average one-bedroom rents in the 50 largest U.S. cities rose $457 (41%) to $1,578 and two-bedroom rents rose $505 (37%) to $1,858 between 2020 and 2025, with New York, San Diego and Miami posting the biggest jumps. The report attributes spikes to demand outpacing supply and population growth, while San Francisco saw minimal increases; a Zillow/StreetEasy report says rents since 2019 have outpaced wages 1.5x and Realtor.com projects only a 1% national rent dip next year.

Housing and Rent U.S. Economy

Iran says it will boycott draw; head coach to attend amid U.S. visa denials

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Iran says it will boycott the 2026 World Cup draw ceremony in Washington after some delegation members were denied U.S. visas by the Trump administration. Nevertheless, Iran’s federation says head coach Amir Ghalenoei and one or two staff will attend to ensure the team’s seat isn’t left vacant — a move the federation calls a technical attendance and not a retraction of the protest, consistent with U.S. travel exceptions for athletes, coaches and necessary support personnel.

U.S. Immigration Policy World Cup 2026 2026 FIFA World Cup

Mace bill would add photos to SNAP EBT cards

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Rep. Nancy Mace introduced legislation to require photographs on SNAP Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards and mandate retailers verify the photo before accepting benefits, aiming to reduce fraud. The bill sets photo-update intervals (10 years for adults, five for minors) and directs the Agriculture Secretary to create procedures allowing caregivers of minors, people with disabilities, and elderly recipients to access benefits on their behalf; Reps. Lauren Boebert and Barry Moore are listed as original cosponsors.

SNAP and Food Assistance Congress and Legislation

Maryland releases unredacted voter record

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After a legal threat forced Maryland to lift redactions, state voter records revealed registration details for Ian Andre Roberts, a school superintendent recently arrested by ICE. House Administration Committee Chair Bryan Steil and Vice Chair Laurel Lee have sent a 10-question letter to Maryland SBE Administrator Jared DeMarinis seeking whether Roberts remains registered, whether he ever voted or received absentee ballots, and how the state complies with NVRA list‑maintenance requirements amid scrutiny of its voter‑roll vetting.

Election Administration Elections and Voting Immigration Enforcement

DOJ sues six states over voter rolls

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The Justice Department has sued six states for refusing to turn over statewide voter registration rolls, warning that their actions amount to open defiance of federal law. Separately, House Administration Committee leaders opened a targeted oversight inquiry into Maryland after an ICE‑arrested superintendent, Ian Andre Roberts, surfaced on voter rolls, requesting detailed records on his registration status, any voting or absentee‑ballot activity, and the state’s list‑maintenance procedures.

Department of Justice Elections and Voting Election Law and Voting Rights

House panel probes Maryland voter rolls

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House Administration Committee Chair Bryan Steil and Vice Chair Laurel Lee sent a letter Thursday to Maryland elections chief Jared DeMarinis seeking answers about noncitizen Ian Andre Roberts’ voter registration and the state’s citizenship verification and list‑maintenance procedures under the NVRA. The letter asks whether Roberts is still registered, whether he ever voted, whether absentee ballots were mailed to him, and how Maryland complies with 52 U.S.C. §20507, and comes amid DOJ’s separate lawsuit over statewide voter list disclosures.

Elections and Voting Immigration Enforcement

NPR challenges Trump funding-cut order in court

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At a Dec. 4 summary-judgment hearing in Washington, D.C., NPR argued President Trump’s May 1 executive order titled 'Ending Taxpayer Subsidy of Biased Media' unlawfully targeted NPR and PBS for perceived bias and violates the First Amendment, while DOJ countered that the order also reflected a broader desire to stop funding media and that NPR suffered no cognizable harm because Congress later rescinded $1.1 billion in public-media funds. U.S. District Judge Randolph D. Moss expressed skepticism of DOJ’s position, noting an NEA grant to NPR was canceled to align with the decree, and will decide whether to rule now or send the case to trial.

First Amendment and Press Freedom Trump Administration Legal Actions

Report: U.S. traffic delays hit record

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The Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s Urban Mobility Report finds U.S. traffic congestion reached record levels in 2024, with the average American spending 63 hours stalled in traffic as delays spread beyond traditional rush hours and into more days of the week. Los Angeles topped the rankings at 137 hours lost per commuter, while San Diego saw the biggest percentage increase since 2019 at more than 37%, and researchers noted rising truck-related rush-hour delays and heavier Thursday traffic nearly matching Fridays.

Transportation and Infrastructure U.S. Economy

NY AG declines charges in Queens police shooting

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New York Attorney General Letitia James’ Office of Special Investigation declined to charge NYPD Officers Salvatore Alongi and Matthew Cianfrocco in the March 27, 2024 fatal shooting of 19‑year‑old Win Rozario during a mental‑health crisis at his Queens home, concluding prosecutors could not disprove beyond a reasonable doubt that deadly force was justified. The report, which cites body‑cam video of Rozario advancing with scissors and a prior Taser use, recommends expanding non‑police mental‑health first responder programs, enhanced officer training, and a state law enabling public‑health responses to behavioral‑health crises; the officers still face an internal discipline trial and a family lawsuit, while Mayor‑elect Zohran Mamdani pledged to strengthen health‑led crisis response.

Policing and Accountability New York Attorney General

US cuts immigrant work permits to 18 months

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USCIS announced on Dec. 5, 2025, that Employment Authorization Documents for many legal immigrants will shift from up to five years of validity to 18 months, requiring more frequent renewals. The federal change applies nationwide, directly affecting Twin Cities immigrants who work under EADs and the employers who depend on them.

Legal Immigration

Mamdani to end NYC encampment sweeps

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New York City Mayor‑elect Zohran Mamdani said Thursday he will halt homeless encampment sweeps when he takes office in January, breaking from Mayor Eric Adams’ 2022 initiative. Mamdani said his administration will prioritize connecting people to long‑term housing and cited a 2023 Comptroller audit that found sweeps largely failed to place people in shelter.

New York City Government Homelessness and Housing Policy

DHS to pause new HCBS disability licenses Jan. 1, 2026–Dec. 31, 2027; limited exceptions

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The Minnesota Department of Human Services will pause accepting and issuing new Home and Community‑Based Services (HCBS/245D) disability license applications from Jan. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2027, may retroactively cancel existing applications, and will bar current providers from adding new services during the moratorium. DHS frames the freeze as a response to fraud investigations and the need for greater oversight after a roughly 283% surge in new applications (with participants up ~25% and active provider licenses up ~55% over five years), while allowing limited exceptions for requests from counties, tribal nations or case managers.

Health Local Government

Grand jury declines to re‑indict Letitia James after case tossed over unlawful appointment

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An out‑of‑district federal judge dismissed New York Attorney General Letitia James’s indictment—charging bank fraud and false statements over a 2020 Norfolk mortgage—after finding that interim U.S. attorney Lindsey Halligan was unlawfully appointed; the dismissal was without prejudice and turned solely on that appointment defect, with Halligan having been the lone prosecutor before the grand jury. Prosecutors sought to refile but a Norfolk grand jury declined to re‑indict; DOJ may appeal or try again, while James (who has pleaded not guilty) called the charges baseless and has accused investigators of politicized and "outrageous" conduct.

Letitia James Courts/Legal Department of Justice

House cancels vote on NIL SCORE Act after GOP defections

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A planned House vote on the SCORE Act regulating college athletes’ name, image and likeness was canceled after several Republicans defected, despite backing from former President Trump and the bill being brought to the floor by Speaker Mike Johnson and Rep. Steve Scalise. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries and other critics — who called it the "Lane Kiffin Protection Act" — say the bill would preempt state laws, bar athletes from being classified as employees, curb collective bargaining and strip legal rights, and note that organized labor and player associations oppose it; the measure also contains a revenue‑sharing provision tied to at least 22% of the average annual revenue of the 70 highest‑earning schools.

College Athletics and NIL U.S. Congress College Sports NIL Legislation

State Dept readies 'FIFA Pass' priority visas

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Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the State Department says it is preparing a 'FIFA Pass' priority visa initiative announced last month and has surged resources to handle increased demand while keeping vetting strict. Matt Pierce, a senior Consular Affairs official, said wait times are now under 60 days in 80% of countries and more than 400 additional consular officers have been deployed, underscoring the Trump administration’s security focus as the U.S. hosts most matches beginning in June 2026.

U.S. Visa Policy World Cup 2026 Security

Appeals court pauses ruling curbing D.C. National Guard deployment

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A federal appeals panel issued an administrative stay of Judge Jia Cobb’s order that had barred the Trump administration from unilaterally using the D.C. National Guard for crime-control operations or calling up out‑of‑state Guard members, saying the stay should not be construed as a ruling on the merits while it considers a longer-term pause and leaving the Guard deployed for now; the District’s attorney general is suing to bar deployments without the mayor’s consent. The administration ordered an additional 500 Guard personnel after the Nov. 27 ambush that killed two Guardsmen — Arkansas is sending 100 — while states such as West Virginia say roughly 170 Guardsmen remain in D.C. on volunteer rotations and have not asked to leave, and their governor has not committed to the surge and will consult Guard leadership; the White House says the president acted lawfully.

National Guard and D.C. Governance National Guard Operations Washington, D.C.

Pew: Democratic anger at federal government hits record

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A nationally representative Pew Research Center survey fielded Sept. 22–28, 2025 finds 44% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents feel angry toward the federal government—the highest share recorded in Pew trends since 1997—while 40% of Republicans and GOP leaners report feeling content and just 9% angry. Only about one in five Americans say they trust the federal government to do what’s right always or most of the time, among the lowest levels in seven decades, and the poll captures a widening emotional polarization that preceded the subsequent 43‑day government shutdown.

Public Opinion Federal Government

ICE detains Harvard professor in synagogue shooting case

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DHS said Wednesday that ICE ERO Boston detained Harvard Law visiting professor Carlos Portugal Gouvea, a Brazilian national arrested Oct. 2 for firing a BB gun outside a Boston-area synagogue, and that he agreed to voluntarily depart the U.S. Gouvea pleaded guilty on Nov. 13 to illegal use of an air rifle after other charges were dismissed, and the State Department revoked his J‑1 visa two weeks after the incident; Harvard suspended him pending the investigation.

Immigration Enforcement Harvard University

Navy: Houthi ops stressed Truman strike group

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The U.S. Navy released investigation findings Thursday concluding that intense operations against Yemen’s Houthis contributed to a series of mishaps involving the USS Harry S. Truman carrier strike group during its Sept. 2024–May 2025 deployment. The report details “Operation Rough Rider” (Mar. 15–May 6), more than 1,000 airstrikes and 72 hours of continuous flight ops, and links the high-tempo combat environment to a December friendly-fire incident by USS Gettysburg, a February collision near the Suez Canal, and two F-18 losses in April and May. Vice CNO Adm. Jim Kilby said accountability actions were taken (details redacted) and emphasized adherence to procedures in combat conditions; no fatalities occurred, but damages are estimated at about $164 million.

U.S. Navy Houthi Conflict Military Safety

Colorado districts settle CHSAA transgender-athlete suit

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A coalition of Colorado school districts, led by District 49, settled a lawsuit against the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) over transgender athlete participation, dismissing their claims and agreeing to pay CHSAA $60,000. Plaintiffs say the deal ensures districts can separate sports by biological sex without CHSAA penalties, while CHSAA maintains it never penalized districts, leaves eligibility decisions to schools, and that the settlement changes none of its policies.

Courts and Education Policy Transgender Sports Policy

Trial shows Linda Sun texts on Hochul, Cuomo

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At former New York state official Linda Sun’s federal trial in Brooklyn, prosecutors presented Jan. 25, 2021 messages in which Sun told Chinese consular officials that then–Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul was "much more obedient" than Gov. Andrew Cuomo and that the lieutenant governor "listens to me more." Sun, charged with violating and conspiring to violate FARA and related offenses, is accused of acting on behalf of China, including steering a Lunar New Year video and seeking to block mention of Uyghurs in a Cuomo speech, while allegedly funneling millions to her husband to buy real estate and a Ferrari.

FARA and Foreign Influence New York Politics

DHS: Half of probed MN immigration cases fraudulent

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DHS says a targeted fraud‑detection operation in Minneapolis–Saint Paul found about half of the investigated immigration cases were fraudulent, spanning naturalization, H‑1B, marriage and Ukrainian humanitarian parole applications. The agency also cited more than 95,000 pending Minnesota immigration applications (about 6,500 tied to Somalia) but did not release underlying totals or any charging data; FOX 9 has requested records.

Public Safety Legal

Yermak resigns after anti-corruption raid amid energy-sector embezzlement probe

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Andriy Yermak resigned as President Volodymyr Zelensky’s chief of staff after anti‑corruption agents from NABU and the SAPO searched his Kyiv apartment in the presidential compound and his office, actions tied to "Operation Midas," a 15‑month, $100 million probe into alleged embezzlement of funds meant to repair Ukraine’s energy grid; Yermak says he has not been formally charged, cooperated with investigators and had lawyers present. His departure — accepted by Zelensky to "avoid rumors and speculation" — has intensified political fallout, with ministers removed, renewed calls for Yermak’s ouster, EU scrutiny, investigators naming Tymur Mindich as an alleged ringleader, and concerns the scandal could weaken Ukraine’s negotiating position in recent U.S.–Ukraine peace talks.

U.S. Foreign Policy Ukraine Government Ukraine Politics

Vatican panel rejects women deacons again

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The Vatican released a synthesis on Dec. 4, 2025 from a second study commission led by Cardinal Giuseppe Petrocchi concluding women should not be ordained as deacons, while suggesting creation of new lay ministries and leaving room for further study. The document, which unusually included members’ votes on theological questions, follows Pope Francis’s 2016 and 2020 directives to examine historical and doctrinal issues, and drew criticism from U.S.-based advocacy groups that want ministerial recognition for women.

Catholic Church Women’s Ordination Debate

Harvard Youth Poll: 39% of young Americans say political violence may be justified in some scenarios

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A Harvard Youth Poll found 39% of 18–29‑year‑olds say political violence can be acceptable in at least one scenario (56% say it is never acceptable), with scenario breakdowns including 28% if the government violates individual rights, 12% for fraudulent election outcomes and 11% when someone promotes extremist beliefs. The poll also shows broad disaffection with institutions and leaders among young Americans—Trump’s approval is 29% among 18–29‑year‑olds, congressional Democrats 27% and Republicans 26%—alongside low optimism about the country’s direction, widespread economic insecurity and concerns that AI will eliminate opportunities.

Political Violence in the U.S. Economy and AI Public Opinion

SoftBank invests in Sierra, backs Japan expansion

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Axios reports that U.S. AI startup Sierra has secured an investment from SoftBank and will expand into Japan, per an exclusive published Dec. 4, 2025. The deal aligns Sierra’s AI agent platform with SoftBank’s reach in the Japanese market; further details were not provided in the report.

Artificial Intelligence Industry Corporate Funding and Deals

U.S., Kenya sign $2.5B global health pact

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Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Kenyan President William Ruto signed a five‑year, $2.5 billion ‘America First’ global health agreement in Washington on Dec. 4, replacing prior USAID‑run arrangements after the agency’s dismantling. The deal allocates $1.7 billion in U.S. funds and $850 million from Kenya to combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis with an emphasis on faith‑based providers while pledging non‑discrimination; similar accords with other African nations are expected, though not with Nigeria or South Africa.

U.S. Foreign Aid and Global Health Trump Administration Foreign Policy

Russia restricts FaceTime, blocks Snapchat

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Russia’s internet regulator Roskomnadzor said Dec. 4 it imposed restrictions on Apple’s FaceTime and disclosed it blocked Snapchat on Oct. 10, alleging both are used for terrorism, recruiting and fraud. The moves expand the Kremlin’s campaign to control online communications after prior blocks on Signal and Viber, bans on WhatsApp and Telegram calls, YouTube throttling, VPN disruption, and promotion of a state-backed MAX messenger.

Russia Internet Controls U.S. Tech Companies

Van Epps sworn in, GOP at 220 seats; Greene exit to cut majority to 219

6d Dev 13 Analysis

Matt Van Epps was sworn into the House on Dec. 4 after winning the Tennessee 7th District special election by about 54%–45% in a contest marked by heavy outside spending (including large MAGA Inc. buys) and high‑profile surrogates and rallies from both parties. His seating brings Republicans to 220 seats (Democrats 213, with two vacancies); Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s planned resignation next month would cut the GOP majority to 219.

Campaign Finance 2025 Tennessee 7th District Special Election U.S. House Control

IMLS reinstates terminated library, museum grants

6d Dev 1 Data

The Institute of Museum and Library Services said Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025 it is reinstating all grants previously terminated after a Trump executive order, stating the action supersedes earlier termination notices. The move follows a lawsuit by 21 state attorneys general and a November ruling by a Rhode Island federal judge that the administration’s actions were unlawful, unlocking funds that library advocates say are critical for small and rural libraries.

Institute of Museum and Library Services Library Funding and Policy

Georgia panel OKs Jones $10M campaign loan

6d Dev 1 Data

Georgia’s Ethics Commission ruled on Dec. 4, 2025 that Lt. Gov. Burt Jones can loan $10 million to his leadership committee for his 2026 gubernatorial bid, adopting a legal opinion that such personal loans are permitted under current state law. The decision rejects Attorney General Chris Carr’s challenge and underscores the advantages of leadership committees, which can raise unlimited funds and coordinate with candidates, ahead of Georgia’s May 2026 primaries.

Georgia Politics Campaign Finance

USCIS cuts EADs to 18 months; OBBB caps TPS/parole to 1 year

6d Dev 3 Data

USCIS announced it will shorten employment‑authorization document (EAD) validity for a wide range of noncitizens — including refugees, asylees, those granted withholding, pending asylum/withholding and adjustment applicants, and others seeking long‑standing humanitarian relief — from five years to 18 months for any request pending or filed on or after Dec. 5, 2025, citing post‑incident vetting needs and more frequent background checks. Separately, under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, certain parole and Temporary Protected Status categories will be capped at one‑year EADs (or the end of status) for applications pending or filed on or after July 22, 2025, with USCIS saying officers will apply a holistic review that can include applicants’ positive contributions.

Immigration Policy USCIS

Judge denies new trial in Minneapolis girl’s killing

6d Dev TC 1

A Hennepin County judge denied Dpree Shareef Robinson’s postconviction bid to withdraw his 2023 guilty plea and vacate his 37.5‑year sentence for the 2021 drive‑by shooting that killed 9‑year‑old Trinity Ottoson‑Smith in Minneapolis. The court found no evidence Robinson was impaired by oxycodone at his plea hearing and rejected his claim of ineffective assistance of counsel, keeping his second‑degree murder conviction and sentence in place.

Legal Public Safety

NYU attack suspect charged, linked to burglaries

6d Dev 1 Data

NYPD arrested James Rizzo, 45, for allegedly assaulting NYU student Amelia Lewis on Monday and says he also assaulted a 68-year-old woman on Thanksgiving; he was taken into custody early Tuesday after being found in an NYU off‑campus building with items tied to multiple burglaries near Washington Square Park. Prosecutors said a tracked laptop led police to a vacant penthouse where Rizzo was allegedly surrounded by stolen goods; he was ordered held without bail and a judge requested a psychological evaluation.

Crime and Courts Campus Safety

Florida bust nets 92,000 pounds, military-grade weapons

6d Dev 1 Data

The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office said Wednesday it seized about 92,000 pounds of illegal kratom‑derived substances and an arsenal of weapons and explosives from a Palm Bay operation, arresting 26‑year‑old Maxwell Horvath. Sheriff Wayne Ivey alleged Horvath’s firm, Overseas Organics, produced a 7‑hydroxymitragynine product far more potent than morphine; Horvath faces 36 counts of felon‑in‑possession, plus charges for two short‑barreled machine guns and a short‑barreled rifle, with additional explosive‑device charges pending. Officials called it the largest seizure of its kind nationally and displayed IEDs, suppressors, thousands of rounds, and other “military‑grade” items.

Crime and Law Enforcement Drugs and Public Safety

GAO opens probe into FHFA Director Pulte

6d Dev 2 Data

The Government Accountability Office has opened a probe into Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte after top Senate Democrats asked the watchdog to examine whether he misused his authority by referring Letitia James, Adam Schiff, Lisa Cook and Eric Swalwell to the Justice Department for alleged mortgage fraud. A GAO spokesperson confirmed the request was accepted and the agency is beginning to determine scope and methodology, while the FHFA declined to comment.

Congressional Oversight FHFA Federal Oversight and Investigations

Study ties consistent bedtimes to lower blood pressure

6d 1 Data

A small study published in Sleep Advances found hypertensive adults who kept a consistent bedtime for two weeks saw modest but meaningful improvements in overnight blood pressure without increasing total sleep time. Participants reduced their night-to-night bedtime variability from about 30 minutes to just a few minutes, which researchers and an outside sleep-medicine expert said likely helped resynchronize circadian rhythms that govern normal blood-pressure dips at night.

Cardiovascular Health Sleep and Circadian Rhythms

Letitia James challenges NY acting U.S. attorney

6d Dev 1 Data

On Dec. 4 in Manhattan, U.S. District Judge Lorna G. Schofield heard New York Attorney General Letitia James’s bid to quash DOJ subpoenas and disqualify John Sarcone, arguing his appointment as acting U.S. attorney for the Northern District of New York is unlawful after his 120‑day interim term lapsed and judges declined to retain him. DOJ countered that AG Pam Bondi lawfully named Sarcone a special attorney and first assistant, enabling him to serve as acting U.S. attorney, and called disqualification 'drastic and extreme.' The dispute comes amid a string of recent court rulings against other Trump‑era interim U.S. attorney appointments in New Jersey and Virginia.

Justice Department Appointments Letitia James

U.S. reviews Tanzania ties after crackdown

6d Dev 1 Data

The U.S. State Department said it is comprehensively reviewing its relationship with Tanzania after condemning repression and violence following the disputed Oct. 29 presidential election that returned President Samia Suluhu Hassan to power. The move follows the EU’s suspension of tens of millions in aid and UN experts’ condemnation of alleged extrajudicial killings, disappearances and mass detentions; Hassan defended the security forces and claimed a 98% victory as opposition figures were arrested and protests suppressed.

U.S. Foreign Policy Tanzania Election Crisis

D-Day medic Charles Shay dies at 101

6d Breaking 2 Data

Charles Norman Shay, a Penobscot tribal elder and World War II medic who as a teen helped rescue wounded on D‑Day, died at 101 at his home in Thue et Mue, France, near Omaha Beach, his death announced by a group supporting the Charles N. Shay Indian Memorial. He was one of roughly 175 Native Americans among about 34,000 Allied troops who landed on Omaha Beach, later recounted his wartime rescues in a 2010 Library of Congress interview, and in 1945 was turned away from voting in Maine — where Native Americans did not gain full suffrage until 1954.

U.S. Military Veterans World War II Veterans Native American Affairs

Challenger: U.S. layoffs hit 1.1 million

6d 1 Data

Outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas reports U.S. employers announced 1.1 million job cuts through November 2025, up 54% from the same period in 2024 and the highest since 2020. Tech led with 153,536 layoffs and retail 91,954, while the report cites major drivers including roughly 300,000 cuts from the federal Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), market conditions, closures, restructuring, AI and tariffs; ADP separately said private payrolls fell by 32,000 in November, driven by small firms.

U.S. Economy Labor Market

FBI: Trump rally shooter acted alone

6d Dev 3 Analysis Data

After an unprecedented international investigation involving thousands of interviews, FBI officials concluded that Thomas Crooks — the shooter at a Trump rally — acted alone, with no established motive or identified accomplices, and the bureau rejected claims of a cover‑up. The case is in a "pending, inactive" status to be reactivated on any credible lead, and FBI leaders including Kash Patel and Dan Bongino said they fully briefed President Trump as a crime victim.

Government & Law Enforcement FBI and Law Enforcement Donald Trump

State Dept renews Venezuela 'Do Not Travel' alert

7d Dev 1 Data

The U.S. State Department on Dec. 3, 2025 reissued its Level 4 'Do Not Travel' advisory for Venezuela without changes, citing pervasive violent crime, terrorism, arbitrary detention, and severely limited health care and consular support, and urging all U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents in the country to depart immediately. The advisory warns of kidnappings, wrongful detentions with reports of torture, risks at Maiquetía airport (unregulated taxis/ATMs), and danger in border areas where Colombian terrorist groups operate; it notes the U.S. has had no embassy in Venezuela since 2019 and that DOT restricts U.S.–Venezuela flights.

State Department Travel Advisories Venezuela and U.S. Policy

Melania announces 7 Ukrainian reunifications

7d Dev 1 Data

First Lady Melania Trump announced Thursday, Dec. 4, that seven more Ukrainian children have been reunited with their families under a Russia–Ukraine youth reunification initiative, according to a White House statement. The White House said six boys and one girl were returned, and Melania Trump credited cooperation between Russia and Ukraine while noting her representative provided U.S. humanitarian support; she previously reported eight reunifications in October.

Russia–Ukraine War U.S. Foreign Policy

MMB forecast: $2.4B surplus now, nearly $3B 2028–29 shortfall

7d Breaking TC 2 Data

Minnesota Management and Budget’s new forecast shows a near‑term surplus of about $2.4 billion — roughly $549 million higher than previously estimated — but predicts a nearly $3 billion shortfall in the 2028–29 biennium, driven largely by rising health‑care costs. Gov. Tim Walz cautioned that federal tariffs and health‑care changes add uncertainty while saying the budget remains on solid footing; the outlook has swung since March’s roughly $6 billion projected shortfall and the June special session that trimmed the biennial budget from $72 billion to $66 billion (post‑session estimates briefly cut the out‑year gap to about $1.1 billion before federal changes were factored in).

Local Government Business & Economy

$1,000 'Trump Accounts' for 2025–2028 newborns

7d Breaking TC 1 Data

A new federal program will deposit $1,000 into investment accounts for all U.S. babies born 2025–2028 once parents open an account, with funds invested in low‑fee U.S. stock index funds and accessible at age 18 for restricted uses such as tuition, a home down payment or starting a business. Michael and Susan Dell also pledged $6.25 billion to add a $250 seed for some children age 10 and under in lower‑income ZIP codes who don’t qualify for the $1,000, changes that directly affect eligible Twin Cities families.

Business & Economy Education

30-year mortgage rate falls to 6.19%

7d Breaking TC 1 Data

Freddie Mac’s weekly survey on Thursday, Dec. 4, reported the average U.S. 30-year fixed mortgage rate dipped to 6.19%, near its low for 2025. The move could modestly improve affordability for Minneapolis–Saint Paul buyers and refinancing prospects for some homeowners as the housing market heads into winter.

Business & Economy Housing

Dell details $6.25B ‘Trump Accounts’ gift; $250 for 25M kids, White House projects $1.9M by 28

7d Breaking 9 Analysis Data

Michael and Susan Dell pledged $6.25 billion to seed Treasury‑run “Trump Accounts,” including a $250 Dell deposit for about 25 million U.S. children age 10 and under in ZIP codes with median family incomes under $150,000, while the Treasury will add a one‑time $1,000 seed for U.S. citizens born Jan. 1, 2025–Dec. 31, 2028 who have Social Security numbers. The accounts — launching July 4, 2026 — are tax‑deferred, must be invested in low‑cost index funds, allow up to $5,000 in annual contributions from parents, employers and others, and the White House projects a fully funded account could grow to nearly $1.9 million by age 28.

Child Investment Accounts Federal Savings Programs Philanthropy and U.S. Economic Policy

Issa opts for California reelection bid

7d Dev 1 Data

Rep. Darrell Issa said he will seek reelection in California’s newly reshaped 48th Congressional District rather than pursue a run in Texas, telling Fox News Digital he was asked to consider Texas after California voters passed Proposition 50 but that “California is my home.” Issa acknowledged the district was redrawn toward a Democratic advantage yet said he can hold the seat, while a source said he expects President Donald Trump’s support; he had discussed the possibility of Texas’s 32nd District amid Texas’s redistricting being enjoined for 2026.

U.S. House Elections California Politics

Florida CFO unveils anti‑illegal immigration policy package

7d Dev 1 Data

Florida CFO Blaise Ingoglia announced a slate of legislative priorities on Dec. 3 to curb illegal immigrants’ access to state‑licensed financial services and benefits, including barring down‑payment assistance, prohibiting issuance of licenses overseen by the Department of Financial Services, requiring CDL final exams be administered only in English, and removing illegal immigrants as covered employees under workers’ compensation. Ingoglia, citing 26 arrests tied to his agency (including four insurance fraud cases totaling $800,000), also proposed requiring insurers to accept fault if an illegal immigrant policyholder is involved in an auto crash, and said he is working with state lawmakers Rep. Kiyan Michael (R‑Duval) and Jonathan Martin (R‑Fort Myers) to advance the package.

Florida Politics Immigration Policy

Survey: Foreign Service morale 'dangerously low' under Trump

7d Dev 1 Data

The American Foreign Service Association reports that 98% of roughly 2,100 surveyed members rate morale as poor, with large majorities saying Trump-era changes since January are hindering U.S. diplomatic work. Conducted Aug–Sep 2025, the survey cites heavier workloads from staffing losses, delayed initiatives, and rising intent to leave, while the State Department responded that it values candid feedback and emphasized reorganization to empower frontline bureaus.

State Department U.S. Foreign Service

U.S. jobless claims hit 3-year low

7d Breaking 1 Data

The Labor Department said Thursday that initial unemployment claims fell to 191,000 for the week ending Nov. 29, the lowest since Sept. 24, 2022, undershooting forecasts for 221,000. The four‑week average dropped to 214,750 and continuing claims edged down to 1.94 million for the week ending Nov. 22, a snapshot that could factor into the Federal Reserve’s rate decision next week amid mixed labor signals.

U.S. Economy Labor Market and Employment

DHS: Oregon fatal crash suspect had California CDL

7d Dev 1 Analysis Data

The Department of Homeland Security said Monday that Rajinder Kumar, a 32-year-old Indian national accused of criminally negligent homicide after a Nov. 24 semi-truck crash that killed two people on U.S. Highway 20 in Deschutes County, Oregon, entered the U.S. illegally in Nov. 2022, was released, received work authorization in 2023, and later obtained a California commercial driver’s license. ICE has lodged a detainer as Kumar remains in the Deschutes County jail; DHS highlighted Oregon’s sanctuary status and said it will seek custody if he is released.

Immigration Enforcement Road Safety and Transportation

Utah DA charges protest safety volunteer with manslaughter

7d Dev 2 Data

Utah prosecutors charged a volunteer safety monitor with manslaughter in the fatal shooting of a "No Kings" protester, saying he fired three shots and that the third round—fired over people’s heads at a large gathering—was reckless; DA Sim Gill proceeded with charges after a five‑judge panel denied a request for a grand jury, citing a similar Massachusetts case as informing the decision. Prosecutors said another safety volunteer, Arturo Roberto Gamboa, will not be charged due to insufficient evidence though his conduct was described as alarming, while Gamboa’s attorney says he walked with the rifle unloaded, pointed at the ground, and may not have heard commands to stop.

Courts and Legal Protests and Public Safety

Chauvin files for new trial in Minnesota

7d Dev 1 Data

Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis officer convicted of second-degree murder in George Floyd’s death, filed in November 2025 in Hennepin County District Court seeking a new trial or evidentiary hearing. The filing alleges flawed medical expert testimony, misrepresented police training, and faulty jury instructions, and cites 34 sworn statements from current and former Minneapolis officers asserting the knee restraint was taught and consistent with policy.

George Floyd case Courts and Legal

Trump pardons Rep. Henry Cuellar and wife

7d Breaking 6 Data

President Trump pardoned Rep. Henry Cuellar and his wife in a federal bribery and conspiracy case in which prosecutors alleged the couple accepted nearly $600,000 to advance an Azerbaijan‑controlled energy company and a Mexican bank, including agreements to influence legislation and deliver a pro‑Azerbaijan House floor speech; their trial had been scheduled for next April. Cuellar, who denies wrongdoing, thanked Trump, said he will remain a "conservative blue dog" Democrat and filed for reelection the same day, while the White House defended the clemency and Trump described the prosecution as "weaponized."

Presidential Clemency Congress and Ethics Congressional Ethics and Corruption

Subzero cold grips Twin Cities; MSP hits −5°F

7d Breaking TC 1

On Thursday morning, December 4, 2025, the Twin Cities saw subzero temperatures with MSP Airport bottoming out at −5°F and numerous metro suburbs between −14°F and −5°F. Statewide, daily record lows were set in Hibbing (−19°F), Owatonna (−15°F) and Red Wing (−11°F); forecasters say highs will reach only the teens Thursday with wind chills near −5°F, before a brief warmup into the upper 20s–low 30s Friday.

Weather

House to consider three GOP bills targeting foreign influence in schools, including TRACE Act

7d Dev 2 Data

House Republicans are bringing three bills to the floor aimed at combating alleged CCP/foreign influence in U.S. schools: H.R. 1069 (PROTECT Our Kids Act) would bar federal funding to K‑12 schools that receive direct or indirect financial support from the Chinese government, including through Confucius Institutes; H.R. 1049 (TRACE Act) would condition federal education funds on local education agencies notifying parents of their right to request and receive information about foreign influence in curricula; and H.R. 1105 (CLASS Act) is included in the package with limited public detail. Sponsors Rep. Kevin Hern, Rep. Aaron Bean and Rep. David Joyce, along with Select Committee on the CCP Chair John Moolenaar, have publicly framed the measures as a commonsense effort to expose foreign‑backed influence and give parents greater access to school materials.

Education Policy U.S. Congress China Influence

Haitian gang leader gets life for U.S. kidnappings

7d Dev 2 Data

Joly Germine, a Haitian gang leader, was sentenced to life in prison for orchestrating the kidnapping of 16 American missionaries, with most victims — including a 6-year-old, a 3-year-old and an 8-month-old — held for about 62 days before they escaped. Germine, who was transferred to U.S. custody from Haiti in May 2022 after an arrest warrant, was also fined $1,700, and prosecutors and victims, including Ray Noecker whose wife and five children were among the hostages, delivered impact statements.

U.S. Federal Courts Haiti Kidnappings International Kidnapping

Researchers scrape 3.5B WhatsApp numbers via API

7d Dev 1 Data

Security researchers from the University of Vienna and SBA Research exploited weak rate limits in WhatsApp’s GetDeviceList and related APIs to enumerate 3.5 billion active accounts and download profile photos, ‘about’ text, device info and public keys, they told BleepingComputer and Fox News. Using five authenticated sessions on a single university server, they queried over 100 million phone numbers per hour and pulled 77 million U.S. profile images; WhatsApp has since added rate limiting after the issue was disclosed, and the researchers did not release the data.

Cybersecurity Meta/WhatsApp

HHS probes school over unauthorized child vaccination

7d Dev 1 Data

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced Wednesday that the department has opened an investigation into a Midwestern school for allegedly vaccinating a child without parental consent despite a state religious exemption. In a video statement on X, he said HHS will launch compliance reviews of major providers, issue letters reminding providers of parents’ rights to timely access to children’s medical records, and have HRSA warn grant recipients that federal funds require adherence to parental‑rights protections. HHS will also review how states and districts process medical and religious exemptions under the Vaccines for Children program, and directed parents to file complaints with the HHS Office for Civil Rights.

HHS and Vaccination Policy Parental Rights and Schools

Social frailty tied to higher dementia risk

7d 1 Data

UNSW Sydney researchers report in The Journals of Gerontology that older adults classified as socially frail had a roughly 47% higher risk of developing dementia over 12 years compared with non‑frail peers. The study followed 851 dementia‑free adults aged 70+ in Sydney’s suburbs, using biennial neuropsychological testing and adjusting for physical and psychological frailty and health history; low family/financial satisfaction, infrequent contact, and limited social activity were the strongest contributors.

Public Health Dementia Research

Virginia twins charged with deleting federal databases

7d Dev 1 Data

The Justice Department said Wednesday it arrested Virginia twin brothers Muneeb and Sohaib Akhter, 34, who were indicted last month for conspiring to delete and tamper with U.S. government databases while working for federal contractor Opexus. Prosecutors allege nearly 100 databases were deleted, including FOIA and sensitive investigative records, and that IRS data for at least 450 people was stolen; the charges include conspiracy, computer fraud, theft of U.S. records and aggravated identity theft.

Cybersecurity and DOJ Federal Contracting

NYT and reporter Julian Barnes sue Pentagon and Hegseth over new press-access policy, alleging First and Fifth Amendment violations

7d Dev 2 Data

The New York Times and intelligence reporter Julian Barnes have sued the Department of Defense, Secretary Pete Hegseth and chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell over a new press‑access policy, alleging it violates their First and Fifth Amendment rights. The complaint says the policy gives the Pentagon unbridled discretion to suspend or revoke PFAC credentials, amounts to viewpoint discrimination — noting invited reporters signed a pro‑Trump pledge — has been widely rejected by news organizations, and cites Sherrill v. Knight and Karem v. Trump as due‑process precedents.

Pentagon and Press Freedom Press Freedom and Pentagon Policy First Amendment Litigation

Grand Canyon South Rim hotels close after waterline breaks

7d Dev 1 Data

The National Park Service is halting overnight stays at the Grand Canyon’s South Rim starting Saturday due to multiple breaks in the Transcanyon Waterline, the park’s only water source, leaving hotels and campgrounds without water. Lodges including El Tovar, Bright Angel and Maswik are closed to overnights while welding repairs proceed; day visits remain open and officials say lodging could reopen as early as next week if water service is restored.

National Parks and Public Safety Infrastructure and Utilities

Trump says asylum freeze could be indefinite, considers denaturalizing criminal naturalized immigrants

7d Dev 9 Analysis Data

President Trump said he would "permanently pause" migration from poorer or "Third World" countries and invoked INA §212(f) to halt entry and asylum processing — USCIS has paused affirmative asylum decisions and been directed to reexamine green cards and admissions from a set of countries — a moratorium he said could last "a long time" with "no time limit" and tied to the recent D.C. National Guard shooting. He also vowed to revoke what he called millions of Biden-era admissions, end federal benefits for noncitizens, remove those deemed public charges or security risks, and said he would seek to denaturalize naturalized immigrants convicted of crimes if he has the legal authority.

Donald Trump U.S. Immigration Policy Trump Administration

Colombian family files IACHR challenge to U.S. strike

7d Dev 1

The family of Alejandro Carranza filed a petition with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, received Tuesday, alleging his Sept. 15 death off Colombia’s Caribbean coast was an extrajudicial killing in a U.S. strike on an alleged drug boat. The filing, the first formal human-rights challenge to the U.S. boat-strike campaign that has killed 80+ people since early September, seeks compensation and cites statements by U.S. officials; the U.S. does not recognize the jurisdiction of the commission’s associated court, so any recommendations would be nonbinding.

U.S. Military Operations Human Rights and International Law

Stamford standoff ends with 2 dead, explosives found

7d Dev 1 Data

Stamford Police say a man evictable under a court order barricaded himself in a home on Oaklawn Avenue Tuesday, exchanged gunfire with officers, and was later found dead of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot. After the hours-long standoff, officers discovered a decomposed body on the second floor and multiple explosives including pipe bombs, grenades, and Molotov cocktails; no officers were injured, the bomb squad cleared devices, and the state inspector general opened a probe into the officers’ use of deadly force.

Crime and Public Safety Law Enforcement and Policing

FDA reclassifies shredded-cheese recall as Class II; 260k+ cases in 31 states

7d Dev 3 Data

The FDA on Dec. 1, 2025 reclassified a voluntary Great Lakes Cheese recall of shredded and grated cheeses to Class II after the products were found to possibly contain metal fragments; the recall, initiated in early October, covers more than 260,000 cases—including about 235,789 cases of low‑moisture part‑skim mozzarella—distributed in 31 states and Puerto Rico with sell‑by dates in Feb.–Mar. 2026. Affected brands and retailers include Aldi (Happy Farms), Target (Good & Gather), Walmart (Great Value), Food Lion, Publix, H‑E‑B, Lucerne and others; NPR reported the FDA had not issued a press release on the recall as of its story.

Product Recalls FDA Recalls FDA

Florida House opens midcycle redistricting talks

7d Dev 1 Data

Florida’s GOP-controlled House convenes its first select committee meeting on congressional redistricting Thursday in Tallahassee, launching a potential midcycle remap as both parties jockey for advantage ahead of 2026. Gov. Ron DeSantis has signaled support and floated a special session if needed, while a constitutional ban on partisan intent and reluctance from Senate President Ben Albritton pose hurdles; advocates plan to oppose any partisan redraw.

Redistricting and Elections Florida Legislature

Chauvin files postconviction petition in Hennepin

7d Breaking TC 2

Derek Chauvin filed a postconviction petition seeking a new trial, arguing jury instructions misstated the law and requesting an evidentiary hearing into alleged trial misconduct and due‑process violations; the defense retained physicians from The Forensic Panel and a Critical Incident Review analyst and submitted sworn statements from 34 current and former MPD officers saying the knee‑to‑neck tactic was part of MPD training and policy. The filing highlights autopsy details — Dr. Andrew Baker cited cardiopulmonary arrest complicating restraint and did not find injuries consistent with asphyxia, conflicting with state experts who said Floyd died from low oxygen — and notes Chauvin is housed at FCI Big Spring (projected federal release Nov. 2037); MPD Chief Brian O’Hara said there is no credible information that former President Trump will pardon him.

Public Safety Legal

Ex-Washington Co. deputy sentenced in DUI crash

7d Breaking TC 1

A former Washington County sheriff’s deputy was sentenced in Washington County on Dec. 3, 2025, for driving drunk while off duty and crashing into a family’s SUV, according to TwinCities.com. The case stems from an earlier east‑metro crash; the sentencing concludes a criminal proceeding involving a local law‑enforcement officer.

Legal Public Safety

St. Paul sets hearing on 5.3% 2026 levy

7d Breaking TC 2

The St. Paul City Council scheduled a Truth in Taxation hearing on a proposed 5.3% increase to the 2026 property‑tax levy. On Dec. 3, 2025 the council voted to adopt that 5.3% levy and approved $6.7 million in budget changes.

Local Government Business & Economy

St. Paul approves 5.3% 2026 levy, $6.7M budget changes

7d Breaking TC 1

The St. Paul City Council on Dec. 3, 2025 approved a 5.3% increase to the city’s 2026 property‑tax levy and adopted $6.7 million in changes to the municipal budget. The vote finalizes next year’s tax rate and spending plan, directly impacting city services and property‑tax bills for St. Paul residents.

Local Government Business & Economy

SPPS says 2026 school levy on track to rise 15% after hearing

7d Breaking TC 2

St. Paul Public Schools says its 2026 property tax levy is on track to rise about 15% following the district’s Truth-in-Taxation hearing. The update, given after the Tuesday hearing, signals the School Board will likely adopt the levy later this month for taxes payable in 2026.

Education Local Government

MDH cites Golden Valley senior home after fatal fall

7d Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota Department of Health cited Meadow Ridge Senior Living in Golden Valley for neglect and fined it $5,000 after 79-year-old resident Larry Thompson slowly fell from his electric scooter and suffocated while staff, following a 'no touch after a fall' policy, failed to assist. Surveillance and body-camera video show staff delayed aid until first responders arrived; the state long‑term care ombudsman warned such 'no touch/no lift' policies pose serious risks.

Health Public Safety

Eagan names Salim Omari police chief

7d Breaking TC 1

The City of Eagan has appointed Salim Omari as its new police chief, according to a Dec. 3 report. Omari, who began his policing career in St. Paul, will lead the department serving the Dakota County suburb; the announcement marks a leadership change with public‑safety implications for Eagan residents.

Public Safety Local Government

$7.35M deal for Lake Elmo–Hwy 36 interchange land

7d Breaking TC 1

Washington County and a church reached a $7.35 million agreement for property needed to build the Lake Elmo Avenue–Minnesota 36 interchange in Lake Elmo. The pact clears a key right‑of‑way hurdle for the east‑metro highway project as the county advances design and land acquisition.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Man indicted for ramming ICE vehicle in St. Paul

7d Dev TC 1

A federal grand jury indicted Jeffrey Josuee Lopez‑Suazo on charges of assaulting and impeding a federal officer and improper entry after ICE says he intentionally rammed an agent’s unmarked squad with a blue Toyota Corolla during a Nov. 25 operation on Rose Avenue East near Payne Avenue in St. Paul. The incident triggered a standoff and large protest where tear gas and pepper spray were used; a second man, Victor Molina Rodriguez, was also arrested that day.

Legal Public Safety

Mike Lindell files for Minnesota governor

7d Breaking TC 1

MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell registered Wednesday to run for Minnesota governor as a Republican, according to state records. He joins a crowded GOP field for the 2026 race that already includes House Speaker Lisa Demuth, Rep. Kristin Robbins, and Minneapolis attorney Chris Madel, among others.

Elections Local Government

Four men wounded in Dayton’s Bluff shooting now charged in gunfight

7d Breaking TC 3

Four men were wounded in a shooting shortly after 4:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1, near 4th St. E. and Earl St. in St. Paul’s Dayton’s Bluff; police say all four injuries are non-life-threatening, K9 and drone teams searched the scene, and there is no ongoing public threat. Ramsey County prosecutors have charged all four men — charging documents describe a “wild gunfight” with multiple participants exchanging fire — and the case has moved to Ramsey County District Court.

Public Safety Legal

BAE wins $22M Navy deal; Twin Cities work

7d Breaking TC 1

BAE Systems secured a $22 million U.S. Navy contract that could grow to as much as $317 million, with engineering and program support to be performed in the Twin Cities. The award brings new defense-related work to the metro and could impact staffing and operations at BAE’s local facilities.

Business & Economy Technology

HUD pulls funds from Twin Cities housing projects

Dec 03 Breaking TC 6

HUD’s new Continuum of Care rules have canceled or sharply cut funding for Twin Cities permanent supportive housing, threatening roughly 3,600 Minnesotans and about $48 million in CoC funds in Minnesota by reducing renewals and capping supportive‑services spending. The changes — which repudiate “Housing First,” impose eligibility conditions (eg. bans on public camping, cooperation with ICE, limits on harm‑reduction and certain gender‑identity protections) — have prompted a coalition of 185+ organizations, faith‑leader vigils, bipartisan congressional pleas and legal action by Minnesota’s attorney general as local providers scramble and warn the cuts could more than double chronic homelessness.

Housing Local Government Legal

HUD rule change slashes MN supportive housing funds

Dec 03 Dev TC 2

A recent HUD rule change sharply reduced federal supportive housing funding in Minnesota, cutting assistance that serves more than 3,600 residents. Providers statewide are scrambling—revising operations, pausing or triaging intakes—and warn the uncertain timelines could force reductions in services.

Housing Local Government

Minnesota sues HUD over homelessness funding shift

Dec 03 Breaking TC 2

Minnesota has joined 20 other states in suing HUD over a shift in homeless housing funding. The federal changes have left local housing and homelessness programs scrambling, and Twin Cities service providers are preparing for disruptions while the litigation proceeds.

Housing Legal

Twin Cities roads slick after light snow, cold

Dec 03 Breaking TC 1

About a half‑inch of snow Tuesday night left some Twin Cities roads slick Wednesday morning, with MnDOT reporting clear to partially covered conditions and warning that side streets and ramps may be most treacherous. Plows are salting ahead of a rapid temperature drop into the single digits this afternoon and below zero overnight.

Weather Transit & Infrastructure

Trump student-loan overhaul: DOE drops IBR hardship test in December; caps grad borrowing next July

Dec 03 Dev TC 2 Data

The Department of Education/Federal Student Aid will finish implementing changes in December that remove the “partial financial hardship” requirement to enroll in Income‑Based Repayment (IBR), a move that can let higher earners newly qualify, while also eliminating the SAVE plan and phasing out PAYE and ICR. IBR payments remain capped at the equivalent of the 10‑year standard plan with existing calculation percentages unchanged (generally 10% for new borrowers after July 1, 2014; 15% for older loans), and borrowers with eligible loans before July 1, 2026 can access IBR/ICR/PAYE on or after that date — FSA urges consolidations be completed at least three months prior.

Education Business & Economy Health

USDOT audit threatens $30M over illegal MN CDLs

Dec 03 Breaking TC 2 Data

Federal auditors from the U.S. Department of Transportation say Minnesota improperly issued a sizable share of commercial driver’s licenses to foreign nationals — Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy alleged about one‑third were unlawfully issued, including holders from El Salvador, Somalia and Ukraine with expired work authorization — and have given the state 30 days to fix deficiencies or risk losing roughly $30 million in federal highway funds. Minnesota’s Driver and Vehicle Services has paused issuing CDLs to foreign nationals while conducting an internal review and preparing an action plan, and USDOT is also probing CDL training centers for possible falsified training data and curriculum shortfalls.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Rosemount police chief placed on leave

Dec 03 Breaking TC 2 Data

Rosemount Police Chief Mikael Dahlstrom was placed on leave on Oct. 1 and subsequently resigned, with the City Council accepting his resignation effective Dec. 2, 2025. The city says the move followed internal discussions prompted by feedback from an anonymous employee survey, and Deputy Chief Carson Thomas — who has served as interim chief since Oct. 1 — will lead the department. City Administrator Logan Martin said officials will focus on workplace culture and maintaining public safety, and details on the search for a permanent chief will be shared in coming months.

Public Safety Local Government

Rosemount police chief Dahlstrom resigns

Dec 03 Dev TC 1 Data

The Rosemount City Council accepted Police Chief Mikael Dahlstrom’s resignation effective Dec. 2, 2025, following internal discussions prompted by feedback from an anonymous employee survey. Deputy Chief Carson Thomas remains interim chief, and the city said it will outline the process to select a new chief in the coming months, emphasizing workplace culture and public safety continuity.

Local Government Public Safety

Plymouth officer shoots armed man after disturbance

Dec 03 Breaking TC 2 Data

A Plymouth police officer shot a man following a reported domestic disturbance; the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension identified the officer as Jacob Coopet, a 23‑year law enforcement veteran, and the man as 44‑year‑old Atanas Hristev of Champlin. BCA says Hristev pointed a handgun at Officer Coopet before the officer fired, investigators recovered a handgun, spent shell casings and squad‑car video, Hristev is hospitalized in stable condition, and the BCA will present its findings to the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office without making charging recommendations.

Public Safety Legal

South St. Paul teen charged after woman dragged

Dec 03 Breaking TC 1 Data

A teenager has been criminally charged in South St. Paul after allegedly dragging a woman with a vehicle during a dispute over a vape cartridge, according to a Dec. 2 report. The incident occurred in South St. Paul (Dakota County) and led to charges tied to the alleged assault; further details on the charging documents and injuries were not immediately available.

Public Safety Legal

St. Paul shooter Dejaun Hemphill gets 12 years

Dec 03 Breaking TC 1 Data

Dejaun Hemphill was sentenced to 12 years in prison for fatally shooting a St. Paul man, in a case described as the masked assailant “hunting” the victim. The sentence, reported Dec. 2, 2025, closes a Twin Cities murder case and follows a court hearing in the metro.

Legal Public Safety

Treasury orders probe of MN fraud–terror ties

Dec 02 Breaking TC 3

The Treasury Department has opened a federal probe to trace alleged money‑laundering routes from recent Minnesota human‑services fraud to the Somali militant group Al‑Shabab, though investigators say they have not found direct evidence that fraud proceeds reached the group. Gov. Tim Walz said he welcomes federal help but questioned the timing and motives after President Trump’s posts, Republican state senators backed the inquiry, reporting noted an anonymous X account claiming to represent about 480 DHS employees was suspended and later returned, and prior probes linked some fraud proceeds to real‑estate transactions in Kenya with separate prosecutions alleging Al‑Shabab ties.

Public Safety Legal Local Government

Bronze Line to replace Purple Line BRT

Dec 02 Breaking TC 1 Data

Ramsey County and Metro Transit announced on Dec. 2, 2025, that the long‑planned METRO Purple Line will be replaced by a new 'Bronze Line' hybrid bus route running between St. Paul and Maplewood. The revised corridor shortens and retools the project, shifting away from the previous Purple Line plan and setting up next steps for design, environmental review and public engagement.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

USDA threatens to cut Minnesota SNAP funds

Dec 02 Breaking TC 1 Data

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said Tuesday that the USDA will begin withholding SNAP funds next week from states, including Minnesota, that refuse to provide recipient names and immigration status, framing the move as anti‑fraud. Minnesota has roughly 451,966 SNAP recipients (7.8% of the population); the state’s DCYF reiterated prior reporting errors that inflated past payout totals, and AG Keith Ellison recently joined a 21‑state lawsuit seeking to block federal cutoffs.

Local Government Health

Wren Clair, KSTP seek dismissal of lawsuit

Dec 02 Dev TC 1 Data

Meteorologist Wren Clair and KSTP-TV jointly asked a judge on Dec. 2, 2025 to dismiss her lawsuit against the station, according to a TwinCities.com report. The filing signals a potential end to the legal dispute pending the court’s decision; details of the request were not immediately disclosed.

Legal Business & Economy

GN Group adds 100 jobs in Shakopee

Dec 02 Breaking TC 1 Data

Copenhagen-based GN Group has converted Shakopee’s former Shutterfly facility into an advanced medical-device manufacturing and distribution center and plans to add about 100 jobs, the company told the Business Journal. The project brings new production and logistics activity to Scott County after a year-long retrofit of the building.

Business & Economy Health

Costco sues to block emergency tariffs

Dec 02 Dev TC 1 Data

Costco Wholesale Corporation filed a lawsuit in the U.S. Court of International Trade seeking to invalidate President Trump’s emergency tariff orders, block U.S. Customs and Border Protection from collecting such duties going forward, and recover tariffs already paid. The filing cites an imminent Dec. 15 deadline to “liquidate” import entries, after which duties become final, and argues the emergency‑powers statute used does not authorize creating or raising tariffs on goods from China, Mexico, Canada and other countries.

Legal Business & Economy

Metro Transit E Line BRT launches this weekend

Dec 02 Breaking TC 1 Data

Metro Transit will debut the E Line bus rapid transit this weekend, replacing Route 6 and providing faster, more frequent service between Southdale and the University of Minnesota with upgraded stations and security features. The agency expects about 3,000 riders per day, and business groups at 50th & France and in Linden Hills—hit hard by construction—are cautiously optimistic the new service will boost foot traffic.

Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

MN GOP urges federal probe of alleged terror financing

Dec 02 Breaking TC 3 Data

Minnesota Senate and House Republican caucuses sent letters Monday to U.S. Attorney Daniel Rosen — joining earlier requests from four GOP U.S. House members — urging a federal probe into reports that Minnesota-linked fraud and remittances may have funded terrorism. A City Journal/Manhattan Institute report, based on unnamed sources and a former detective, alleges hawala transfers gave a cut to al‑Shabaab, but a 2019 Minnesota Office of the Legislative Auditor found no substantiated proof that money reached terrorist groups; the U.S. Treasury has now opened an investigation.

Public Safety Local Government Legal

Ex-Mpls Chamber CEO Jonathan Weinhagen pleads guilty to mail fraud; faces nearly 3 years, >$200K restitution

Dec 02 Breaking TC 7 Data

Jonathan Weinhagen, the former CEO of the Minneapolis Regional Chamber who had been a Mounds View school board member (he has resigned), pleaded guilty to mail fraud and could face nearly three years in prison and more than $200,000 in restitution. Prosecutors allege he diverted Chamber funds — including about $30,000 earmarked as Crime Stoppers rewards for unsolved 2021 Minneapolis child shootings — through a sham consulting firm called Synergy Partners and an alias “James Sullivan,” opened a Chamber line of credit and drew over $125,000, signed sham contracts generating more than $100,000 for himself, and attempted a fraudulent SoFi loan in a scheme said to have run from December 2019 to June 2024.

Local Government Education Legal

Rosemount man charged in St. Paul Victoria St. homicide; victim ID’d as Tarik Hazem Hassan

Dec 02 Breaking TC 3 Data

Spencer Curtis McAloney, 27, of Rosemount, was charged with second-degree murder, attempted murder and illegal firearm possession after a shooting about 1:38 a.m. Sunday at an apartment on the 700 block of North Victoria Street that killed 32-year-old Tarik Hazem Hassan of St. Paul; the charging narrative describes the men as friends and neighbors/records say the apartment had drawn prior drug-related complaints, with witnesses calling McAloney paranoid and "tweaking." McAloney was arrested after a brief police pursuit and crash, officers recovered a handgun and suspected drugs, bail was set at $1.5 million, and the complaint notes prior felony convictions for aggravated robbery and illegal ammunition possession.

Public Safety Legal

Associated Bank buying American National Bank

Dec 01 Breaking TC 1 Data

Associated Bank announced a $604 million deal to acquire American National Bank, adding six Twin Cities branches and bringing its metro footprint to 24 locations. The merger will elevate Associated Bank’s ranking among the region’s largest banks and expands its presence across the Minneapolis–Saint Paul market.

Business & Economy

Minneapolis attorney Chris Madel launches GOP governor bid with anti-fraud focus; endorsed by Minneapolis Police Federation

Dec 01 Breaking TC 2 Data

Minneapolis attorney Chris Madel formally launched a Republican campaign for Minnesota governor Monday with a one-hour speech and PowerPoint centered on combating fraud in programs like Feeding Our Future, Housing Stabilization Services and autism services, pledging a tough-on-crime approach and touting an endorsement from the Minneapolis Police Federation. He blamed state leaders across parties — “This is our money… the Minnesota government is to blame” — addressed past donations to Democrats (including Gov. Tim Walz and the Harris–Walz ticket) without apologizing, highlighted his defense of State Trooper Ryan Londregan (whose charges were dropped), and joins a crowded GOP field.

Elections Public Safety Local Government

Pedestrian struck Nov. 24 at Summit & Dale dies; case now a fatal crash

Dec 01 Breaking TC 2 Data

A driver struck a 75-year-old woman and her husband in a crosswalk at Summit Avenue and Dale Street on Nov. 24; the woman died about a week later. St. Paul police have reclassified the incident as a fatal crash and the investigation is ongoing.

Public Safety Legal

Edina Facebook Marketplace robbery: 2 teens arrested; ghost gun seized; 18-year-old wounded

Dec 01 Breaking TC 2 Data

Edina police warned neighbors after reports of shots fired during what investigators say was a Facebook Marketplace deal gone wrong in an apartment parking lot on Gallagher Drive. An 18‑year‑old man was shot in the left arm and suffered non‑life‑threatening injuries, and investigators found footprints, tire tracks and a discharged .40‑caliber casing at the scene. Two teenagers, ages 16 and 17, were arrested within 12 hours and are being held at the Hennepin County Juvenile Detention Center after a search recovered a .40‑caliber ghost gun; charges are pending.

Public Safety Legal

TSA finalizes $45 Confirm.ID fee for flyers without acceptable ID starting Feb. 1, 2026

Dec 01 Breaking TC 2 Data

TSA will charge a $45 fee for travelers without acceptable identification to use its Confirm.ID verification system, covering a 10-day travel period and taking effect Feb. 1, 2026; acceptable IDs that avoid the fee include REAL ID, passports and trusted traveler cards, and REAL ID compliance began in May 2025. TSA urges passengers to pay online before arriving (airport payment options and signage will be available but delays are expected) and says the fee shifts costs from taxpayers to travelers, according to TSA’s Adam Stahl.

Technology Transit & Infrastructure Public Safety

FDA approves glasses to slow child myopia

Dec 01 Breaking TC 1 Data

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Dec. 1, 2025 approved a new type of prescription eyeglasses designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children, authorizing nationwide marketing that includes the Twin Cities. The decision gives Minnesota families and eye‑care providers a federally cleared option intended to reduce the rate at which pediatric myopia worsens.

Health Technology

Dakota County proposes 9.9% levy increase

Dec 01 Breaking TC 2 Data

Dakota County is proposing a 9.9% levy increase as part of its 2026 budget. A Tuesday meeting has been scheduled to take up the budget and will serve as the public hearing/Truth-in-Taxation on the proposed levy.

Business & Economy Local Government

Airbus orders urgent A320 safety fixes

Dec 01 Breaking TC 2 Data

Airbus ordered urgent software fixes for A320-family aircraft following a flight-control incident. The company says most jets have now been updated, with fewer than 100 planes worldwide still awaiting the required patch.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure Technology

Minneapolis declares three-day snow emergency

Nov 30 Breaking TC 1 Data

Minneapolis declared a three-day snow emergency Sunday after the season’s first major storm, imposing citywide parking restrictions to clear more than 1,000 miles of streets. Day 1 bans parking on Snow Emergency routes 9 p.m. Nov. 30–8 a.m. Dec. 1; Day 2 restricts the even side of non-routes and both sides of parkways 8 a.m.–8 p.m. Dec. 1; Day 3 restricts the odd side of non-routes 8 a.m.–8 p.m. Dec. 2, with ticketing and towing for violations.

Weather Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

December Social Security and SSI payment dates

Nov 30 TC 1 Data

The Social Security Administration set December 2025 payment dates: SSA benefits will be paid Dec. 3 for those on rolls before May 1997 and on Dec. 10, 17, or 24 based on birthdate; SSI will be paid Dec. 1 and again Dec. 31 because Jan. 1 is a federal holiday. Twin Cities recipients who don’t see an expected direct deposit should contact their bank first, then call SSA at 1-800-772-1213.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

Saturday snow slicks roads: 174 crashes by 4 p.m.; MSP delays, cancellations

Nov 30 Dev TC 3 Data

A daylong snow event slicked roads across Minnesota Saturday, with the State Patrol reporting 174 property‑damage crashes, 13 injury crashes, 114 vehicles off the road and two jackknifed semis between midnight and 4 p.m.; MnDOT said most Twin Cities and southern Minnesota roads were snow‑covered and icy. Snow totals included about 2.8 inches in Bloomington and higher amounts in southern communities (Fairmont 7.5 inches, Faribault 5.5 inches, Albert Lea 4.5 inches), and Minneapolis–St. Paul International reported dozens of disruptions — 25 canceled and 81 delayed arrivals, and 18 canceled and 93 delayed departures — with light snow expected to continue into the night and exit around midnight.

Transit & Infrastructure Public Safety Weather

Cottage Grove seeks regional EMS backup

Nov 29 Breaking TC 1 Data

The City of Cottage Grove asked neighboring east‑metro communities to assist with emergency medical services coverage amid an EMS shortfall, aiming to maintain 911 response while the city addresses gaps. The outreach signals potential interim changes in ambulance/first‑responder coverage affecting Cottage Grove residents and nearby Washington County cities.

Public Safety Local Government

Rep. Morrison proposes Small Business tariff rebates

Nov 29 Breaking TC 1 Data

U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison announced on Small Business Saturday that she has introduced the Small Business RELIEF Act to exempt small firms from Trump‑era tariffs and refund those that already paid them. Morrison, a member of the House Small Business Committee, made the announcement while touring local Minnesota shops to highlight tariff impacts on Twin Cities businesses.

Business & Economy Government/Policy

DNR boosts security at St. Paul office

Nov 29 Breaking TC 1 Data

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says it has increased security at its St. Paul office near a homeless encampment after a rash of break-ins. The agency confirmed the recent incidents and said additional measures are in place to secure the building and protect staff and property.

Public Safety Local Government

US halts all asylum decisions nationwide

Nov 29 Breaking TC 1 Data

USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said Friday, Nov. 28, 2025, that the Trump administration is pausing all asylum decisions “until we can ensure that every alien is vetted and screened to the maximum degree possible,” following a National Guard shooting in Washington, D.C. The nationwide pause applies to cases handled by USCIS offices serving Minnesota, likely delaying asylum adjudications for Twin Cities applicants and legal service providers.

Immigration Local Government

Trump Thanksgiving post targets Minnesota Somalis

Nov 29 Breaking TC 1 Data

Late Thanksgiving night, President Donald Trump posted a message disparaging Somali refugees in Minnesota and using a slur to describe Gov. Tim Walz, while vowing sweeping immigration restrictions; the next day, his administration announced it is halting all asylum decisions. Walz replied on social media, “Release the MRI results,” as the rhetoric and policy move raised immediate concerns for Twin Cities immigrant communities.

Legal Local Government

$3.6B federal heating aid released to states, tribes

Nov 29 Breaking TC 2 Data

The Department of Health and Human Services released $3.6 billion in LIHEAP heating assistance to states and tribes to help families pay to heat their homes, a move NEADA executive director Mark Wolfe called "essential and long overdue." HHS had not yet issued a formal announcement when NEADA confirmed the release; a bipartisan group of House members had urged the funds be released by Nov. 30 amid NEADA projections that winter heating costs will rise about 10.5% (electricity +13.6%/~$1,208, propane +7.3%/~$1,442, natural gas +7.2%/~$644) and noting that roughly 68% of LIHEAP households also receive SNAP, with shutdown-related delays increasing hardship.

Business & Economy Utilities Economy

St. Paul fire chief Butch Inks to retire

Nov 28 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul Fire Chief Butch Inks is retiring, according to a Nov. 28 report, shortly after beginning his second term leading the department. The leadership change affects the city’s fire and emergency services; further details on timing and succession were not immediately available.

Local Government Public Safety

Dakota County to host 2031 horticultural expo

Nov 28 Breaking TC 1

Organizers announced that Dakota County will host Expo 2031 Minnesota USA, the first international horticultural exposition ever held in the United States. The 2031 event, set within the Twin Cities metro, is expected to drive significant tourism and regional planning activity; next steps include formal coordination with local and state agencies on site planning, transportation, and permitting.

Business & Economy Local Government

FDA flags cheese recall over Listeria risk

Nov 28 Breaking TC 1

The FDA announced a recall of multiple grated cheese products, including items under the Boar’s Head brand, due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The recalled cheeses were sold at major retailers such as Target and Walmart, which operate throughout the Twin Cities; consumers are advised not to eat the products and to follow recall instructions for refunds or disposal.

Health Public Safety

Shutdown ends: Feds back Thursday; back pay by Nov. 19 as LIHEAP restarts

Nov 28 Dev TC 25

President Trump signed a stopgap funding bill ending the 43‑day shutdown, OPM directed federal employees to return Thursday and agencies will issue back pay in four tranches beginning by Nov. 19 while the measure reverses shutdown‑era firings and bars new layoffs through January. The package restarts programs including SNAP, releases $3.6 billion in LIHEAP heating aid to states and tribes, and extends funding through Jan. 30, though SNAP and other benefits may take days or longer to reach recipients and a separate vote on ACA premium subsidies is expected in December.

Government/Regulatory Elections Government

Minneapolis house fire seriously injures one, kills dog

Nov 28 Breaking TC 1 Data

The Minneapolis Fire Department rescued an adult from the second floor of a burning two‑story home on the 3600 block of Garfield Avenue South around 4:45 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, transporting the person to a hospital in serious condition; a dog died despite being removed from the home. Officials have not yet released the cause of the fire or additional details on the victim.

Public Safety

Washington County dad pleads in UTV crash case

Nov 27 Breaking TC 1 Data

A Washington County father pleaded guilty to child endangerment in Washington County District Court in a case stemming from a UTV crash involving a child. The plea resolves the criminal charge tied to the incident; further court proceedings, including sentencing, were not immediately detailed.

Legal Public Safety

Daycare abuse, neglect cases surge in Minnesota

Nov 27 TC 1 Data

State oversight records compiled by FOX 9 show abuse and neglect reports at Minnesota day cares nearly doubled from 57 in 2022 to 100 in 2023 and reached 105 in 2024, with several severe metro incidents resulting in child injuries requiring surgery. Cited cases include a Rochester pizza‑slicer attack on a 14‑month‑old, a Brooklyn Park Goddard School employee punching a 3‑year‑old, a St. Paul KinderCare staffer striking a child with an iPad, and arrests tied to alleged infant abuse at Blaine’s Small World Learning Center; DCYF Inspector General Randy Keys said the system is generally safe but could not explain the recent uptick.

Public Safety Health Legal

ICE says 14 arrested in St. Paul Bro‑Tex raid; city leaders decry chemical spray as fundraiser tops $25K

Nov 27 Dev TC 10 Data

Federal authorities say 14 people were arrested for immigration violations during an ICE worksite enforcement action at Bro‑Tex in St. Paul — an operation ICE says was assisted by FBI and DEA and in which DHS noted one arrestee had past domestic‑abuse charges and another is suspected of illegal reentry; families have publicly identified several detainees and a fundraiser for one worker topped $25,000. The raid drew roughly 200 protesters, videos and officials report federal personnel used a chemical irritant (described by the mayor as tear gas) and at least one person reported being struck by rubber bullets, photographers say they were targeted, and St. Paul leaders and the city council have called for investigations into use of force and adherence to the city’s separation ordinance.

Local Government Public Safety Legal

Suicide investigation closes eastbound Hwy 36

Nov 27 Breaking TC 1 Data

Minnesota State Patrol says a man died by suicide around 4:52 p.m. near Highway 36 and Highlands Trail North in Lake Elmo, leading authorities to close eastbound Hwy 36 between I-694 in Pine Springs and Demontreville Trail North. MnDOT said the closure was expected to last into the evening with an estimated reopening around 10:19 p.m.; details on involvement of other vehicles were not immediately available.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

AG Ellison joins SNAP eligibility lawsuit

Nov 26 Breaking TC 1 Data

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison has joined a multistate lawsuit challenging federal rules on SNAP eligibility, arguing the policy unlawfully restricts access to food assistance and harms Minnesota families. Filed against the USDA, the case seeks to block the changes while litigation proceeds and protect continued benefits for eligible residents in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro and statewide.

Legal Health

Lakeland sets open house on City Hall plan

Nov 26 Breaking TC 2 Data

Lakeland will hold an open house to discuss plans for a new City Hall, but city leaders have sent the current proposal back to the drawing board and halted moving forward with acquiring the Telus building at 84 St. Croix Trail S., which had been the subject of a $525,000 letter of intent. Officials directed staff to broaden the search and reevaluate potential sites and options.

Local Government Transit & Infrastructure

Hennepin Healthcare plans $12M addiction center

Nov 26 Breaking TC 1 Data

Hennepin Healthcare plans to solicit construction bids for a new $12 million addiction treatment center in downtown Minneapolis, according to the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal. The project would add dedicated substance‑use treatment capacity in the city’s core, with the health system moving into the bidding phase.

Health Business & Economy

Minneapolis to open 44 outdoor rinks by Dec. 22

Nov 26 Breaking TC 1 Data

The Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board says it will open 44 outdoor ice rinks at 22 city parks in time for Minneapolis Public Schools’ winter break on Dec. 22, weather permitting. All rinks and warming rooms will be free and open until at least 9 p.m.; Powderhorn and Webber rinks will return this season on land rather than on Powderhorn Lake or Webber Pool after prior warm winters and funding pressures disrupted operations.

Local Government Weather

Feds cut Medicare prices for 15 drugs

Nov 26 Breaking TC 1 Data

On Nov. 26, 2025, the Trump administration announced that Medicare will pay lower prices for 15 prescription drugs, projecting 'billions' in taxpayer savings. The change would affect Medicare beneficiaries and taxpayers in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro, though specific drugs and implementation details were not provided in the headline.

Health Business & Economy

Average 30‑year mortgage rate dips to 6.23%

Nov 26 Breaking TC 1 Data

Freddie Mac’s weekly survey shows the average U.S. 30‑year fixed mortgage rate fell to 6.23% as of Nov. 26, 2025, ending a three‑week climb. The move directly affects Minneapolis–Saint Paul borrowers and sellers by influencing monthly payments, refinancing decisions, and housing demand heading into the holiday season.

Business & Economy Housing

Cooper High custodian charged in restroom peeping

Nov 26 Breaking TC 1 Data

Hennepin County prosecutors charged John Ezekiel Brown, 51, of Brooklyn Center with felony interference with the privacy of a minor after a 15-year-old reported he looked over a bathroom stall at Cooper High School in New Hope on Oct. 28. Surveillance video reviewed by New Hope police shows Brown entering the restroom before the student and remaining inside for nearly three minutes; the student ran out after seeing him, and the principal notified families, noting he was a temp-service custodian, not a district employee.

Public Safety Education Legal

Washington County alert system hit by cyberattack

Nov 26 Breaking TC 1 Data

Washington County said Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025, that its emergency alert system was the target of a cyberattack, prompting an investigation into the impact on public warning capabilities. Officials are assessing the scope of the incident and working to restore full alert functionality while communicating updates to residents.

Public Safety Technology

DHS to end TPS for some Myanmar nationals

Nov 25 Breaking TC 3 Data

The Department of Homeland Security announced it will end Temporary Protected Status for some Myanmar nationals, citing planned December “free and fair” elections and “successful ceasefire agreements”; rights groups and Myanmar’s shadow National Unity Government sharply criticized the move, saying Myanmar remains in a brutal civil war with forced conscription and daily attacks on civilians. Advocates warned of harms to Burmese communities in the Twin Cities, and observers note that ICC prosecutors previously sought an arrest warrant for junta leader Min Aung Hlaing over alleged crimes against humanity related to the Rohingya.

Legal Immigration Government

20-year-old charged in fatal Shakopee DWI crash

Nov 25 Breaking TC 1 Data

Goay Jikany, 20, was charged with criminal vehicular homicide after troopers say he rear‑ended a Chevy Cobalt at high speed on Hwy. 169 near Marystown Road late Nov. 23, pushing it off the road and killing 46-year-old Kala Henry of Chaska. A criminal complaint says Jikany’s BAC tested 0.144, he showed signs of impairment, admitted drinking, and his account conflicted with evidence; he was arrested about four weeks after a separate Shakopee DWI case.

Public Safety Legal

FOF defendant Abdimajid Nur sentenced to 10 years, ~$48M restitution

Nov 25 Dev TC 2 Data

Abdimajid Nur, convicted in the Feeding Our Future fraud, was sentenced to 10 years in prison and ordered to pay roughly $48 million in restitution after evidence showed he created and submitted most of the fake meal counts, rosters and invoices for Empire Cuisine & Market sites — at some locations no food was served and at others meals were provided by Shakopee Public Schools. Judge Nancy Brasel said, “It is so disappointing and so disheartening that where others saw a crisis and rushed to help, you saw money and rushed to steal,” and prosecutors detailed Nur’s spending of proceeds on vehicles (including a $64,000 Dodge Ram and $35,000 Hyundai Santa Fe), a Maldives honeymoon, jewelry in Dubai and about $12,000 paid to complete online coursework; he faces a separate sentencing for attempting to bribe a juror.

Legal Public Safety

FHFA raises conforming loan limit to $832,750

Nov 25 Breaking TC 1 Data

The Federal Housing Finance Agency announced it is increasing the baseline conforming loan limit for single-family mortgages to $832,750, raising the maximum size of most loans that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac can back. The change applies in the Twin Cities’ seven-county metro in the upcoming loan-limit year, meaning more buyers can use conforming financing instead of higher-cost jumbo loans; higher limits may apply in designated high-cost areas elsewhere.

Housing Business & Economy

EPA moves to roll back soot standard

Nov 25 Dev TC 1 Data

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency signaled it will abandon a tougher national fine‑particulate (PM2.5) air‑quality standard on Nov. 25, 2025. Reversing the stricter limit would affect how Minnesota and Twin Cities regulators assess air quality and industrial permitting, with implications for public health and compliance planning if the change proceeds through rulemaking.

Environment Health Local Government

ByHeart tests find botulism bacteria; all lots may be contaminated

Nov 25 Dev TC 2

ByHeart has recalled all of its baby formula nationwide after tests found 5 of 36 samples from three lots positive for Clostridium botulinum type A and the company said it "cannot rule out" contamination across all lots. The outbreak has sickened at least 31 infants in 15 states since August (with some ByHeart-fed infants treated as far back as Nov. 2024), at least 107 infants have received BabyBIG treatment since Aug. 1, regulators say some product remained on shelves despite the Nov. 11 recall, and ByHeart has expanded refunds to customers who bought from its website on or after Aug. 1.

Health Public Safety Consumer

Stillwater schools sell Lake Elmo Elementary site

Nov 25 Breaking TC 1

Stillwater Area Public Schools will sell the current Lake Elmo Elementary property at 11030 Stillwater Blvd. N. to Valley Community Center Partners, Inc. for $4.25 million, with plans for an indoor pool and community center on the 12.86‑acre site. The nonprofit has a 210‑day due‑diligence period, and closing is scheduled for Dec. 1, 2026; demolition costs are covered by voter‑approved bond proceeds, and the new Lake Elmo Elementary opens next fall at 10th St. and Lake Elmo Ave.

Education Local Government

Minnesota ERPO gun cases set to double in 2025

Nov 25 TC 2

Minnesota's extreme risk protection order (ERPO) petitions are on pace to double in 2025, with several agencies increasingly using the state's "red flag" law. The Mankato Department of Public Safety has filed the most ERPOs (25) and says it has confiscated more than 60 firearms over the past two years—crediting a coordinated approach and line‑level training—while other city totals include Minneapolis (19), St. Paul (14), Duluth (6) and Bloomington (5).

Public Safety Legal

Ex-Twin Cities teacher gets life for child abuse

Nov 25 Breaking TC 1

Former Twin Cities teacher and coach Aaron Hjermstad was sentenced Monday to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 30 years for sexually abusing 12 additional boys, adding to a prior 12-year sentence tied to four victims. Prosecutors say the abuse occurred while he worked at Excell Academy in Brooklyn Park and Mastery School/Harvest Best Academy in Minneapolis; a search warrant cited a catalog of videos labeled with 127 sets of initials, and Hjermstad pled guilty to the new counts in September 2025.

Legal Public Safety Education

Free entry Friday at state, Washington County parks

Nov 25 Breaking TC 1

Washington County Parks will waive entry fees at all 10 county parks and regional trails on Friday, Nov. 28, while the Minnesota DNR will waive vehicle permits at all 73 state parks the same day. Some parks will host free programs, including a naturalist‑led hike at Wild River State Park; Dakota and Ramsey county parks do not require vehicle permits.

Local Government Environment

RFK Jr. says he ordered CDC vaccine–autism webpage change

Nov 25 Breaking TC 3

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. told The New York Times he personally ordered the CDC on Nov. 19 to revise its vaccine–autism webpage to say studies have not definitively ruled out a link, while acknowledging research finding no link to thimerosal or the MMR vaccine but saying gaps remain and more study is needed. The change — which retained a “vaccines do not cause autism” line with a disclaimer noting his pledge to Sen. Bill Cassidy (who called the move “wrong” and “irresponsible”) — comes as Kennedy has pulled $500 million from vaccine development, replaced federal vaccine advisory committee members, fired the CDC director and pushed ACIP to review adjuvants and contaminants, a review HHS says ACIP is conducting independently.

Health Government/Regulatory

Bus driver rescues 4-year-old from Lake Owasso

Nov 25 Breaking TC 1

The Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office says a nonverbal 4-year-old who wandered from home in Shoreview was saved by school bus driver Mebal Kaanyi, who jumped into Lake Owasso during her Thursday route to pull the child from neck‑deep water. Deputies and medics met them at the scene and took the child to a hospital, where he met his mother and is expected to recover; Roseville Area Schools students later honored Kaanyi for her actions.

Public Safety Education

White House starts dismantling Education Dept; most school funds shift to Labor, other agencies

Nov 25 Breaking TC 4

The White House has begun dismantling the Education Department by signing six interagency agreements that shift most K–12 and higher‑education programs and school funding/support to the Department of Labor and other agencies (HHS, State, Interior), with adult education already moved; Education will retain policy guidance and oversight of Labor’s education work and continue to administer FAFSA, Pell Grants, federal student loans and college accreditation. Secretary Linda McMahon says the transfers won’t disrupt funding and will give states more flexibility, but officials and state leaders warn of added bureaucracy and confusion, staff retention remains unclear, and the department—hobbled by mass layoffs upheld by the Supreme Court—now sits in a limbo only Congress can resolve.

Education Local Government Government/Regulatory

USCIS to re-interview Biden-era refugees

Nov 25 Breaking TC 1

A memo obtained by the AP shows USCIS will conduct a comprehensive review and re-interview of all refugees admitted from Jan. 20, 2021 to Feb. 20, 2025, and has immediately suspended green card approvals for those refugees. The nationwide action, signed Nov. 21 by USCIS Director Joseph Edlow, cites concerns that 'expediency' was prioritized over vetting under Biden; advocates warn the move will traumatize refugees, including many living in the Twin Cities.

Legal Local Government

DOJ proposes RealPage settlement on rent algorithm

Nov 25 Dev TC 1

The U.S. Department of Justice proposed a settlement with RealPage, the rent‑pricing software firm at the center of an antitrust case, that would bar the company from using real‑time, nonpublic data, training models on leases less than 12 months old, or surveying landlords for private pricing information. RealPage would also cooperate in DOJ’s ongoing lawsuit against major landlords — including four that operate in the Twin Cities — accused of using the software and shared data to inflate rents; Minneapolis previously passed an ordinance banning algorithmic rent price‑fixing.

Legal Housing

Trump says he’ll immediately end Somali TPS; AP cites 705 affected nationwide

Nov 24 Breaking TC 4

President Trump said he would "immediately" terminate Temporary Protected Status for Somali nationals, accusing Minnesota of being a "hub" of fraudulent money laundering and claiming Somali gangs are "terrorizing" the state; the AP cites an August report estimating just 705 Somali nationals hold TPS nationwide. Minnesota leaders, including Rep. Ilhan Omar, say the president does not have unilateral authority to end TPS or target one state, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem says any review will follow the law and apply nationwide with a required 60‑day notice, and advocates note Minnesota has more than 37,000 Somali-born residents but only a few hundred currently hold TPS.

Elections Legal Local Government

78th defendant charged in Feeding Our Future case

Nov 24 Breaking TC 1

Federal prosecutors charged Abdirashid Bixi Dool, 36, with seven counts including wire fraud and money laundering, alleging he used two nonprofits sponsored by Feeding Our Future to claim tens of thousands of children’s meals per week at sites in Moorhead and Pelican Rapids from March 2021 to February 2022. The U.S. Attorney’s Office says the entities received more than $1.1 million based on falsified invoices and meal counts, with funds allegedly diverted to Dool, a co‑conspirator, and their families for real estate and travel; the indictment references an unnamed 'Conspirator A,' suggesting additional charges may follow.

Legal Public Safety

Bloomington sting nets 16 in minor-solicitation arrests

Nov 24 Dev TC 3

A Bloomington police sting dubbed "Operation Creep" netted 16 arrests on minor-solicitation allegations, with at least four people formally charged so far. Among those arrested on Nov. 13 was 41-year-old Alexander Steven Back of Robbinsdale, a civilian ICE auditor who has been federally indicted for attempted enticement of a minor and faces a Hennepin County charge of soliciting a minor for prostitution after allegedly continuing explicit texts after being told the purported victim was 17, arriving to meet her, surrendering two phones and his ICE ID, and acknowledging the incriminating messages.

Legal Public Safety

Margot Lewis sentenced to 40 years for Minneapolis murder of Liara Tsai

Nov 24 Dev TC 2

Margot Gerald Lewis was sentenced to 40 years in prison by Judge Paul Scoggin for the June 2024 murder of her partner, Liara Tsai, after being convicted of killing Tsai in a Minneapolis apartment and hiding her body in a car. Lewis received 517 days credit for time served and, under Minnesota’s two‑thirds rule, is projected to be eligible for release in 2051; Scoggin rebuked the "callous handling" of Tsai’s body, said a subsequent I‑90 crash appeared intended to cover tracks, and Lewis is being held at MCF–St. Cloud.

Legal Public Safety

Twin Cities sets Nov. 23 record high at 56°F

Nov 24 Breaking TC 3

The Twin Cities hit a record high of 56°F on Nov. 23, breaking a roughly 120-year mark. The NWS says a storm will bring rain Tuesday—then change to snow late Tuesday into Wednesday (metro timeline roughly 9 a.m.–5 p.m. rain, changeover 5 p.m.–2 a.m., snow 2–9 a.m. Wed), with 1–2 inches expected in the Twin Cities (3–6 inches in central/northern MN), gusts over 40 mph possible in central Minnesota and a winter storm watch in effect for northern Minnesota and eastern North Dakota; wet roads could freeze and create travel hazards.

Environment Weather

MSP food-service strike averted with HMSHost deal

Nov 24 Breaking TC 1

The union representing hundreds of food-service workers at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport called off a threatened strike after reaching a labor agreement with HMSHost, avoiding disruptions during a busy travel week. The tentative deal means airport restaurants and concessions can continue operating without a walkout while details are finalized.

Business & Economy Transit & Infrastructure

Edina unveils draft ban on assault‑style weapons, >20‑round mags and ghost guns; delays action, will hold town hall

Nov 24 Dev TC 3

Edina unveiled a draft ordinance, modeled on St. Paul’s, that would ban possession, manufacture and transfer of “assault weapons,” magazines holding more than 20 rounds, ghost guns and binary triggers and would impose a firearms storage mandate, but states it would take effect only when the council passes a resolution affirming it is not preempted by state law. Council leaders put a vote on hold and will hold a public hearing/town hall after the city manager said he could not support the currently unenforceable draft and the city attorney said it cannot be enforced until state law changes, while the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus has threatened legal action if the ban is enacted.

Local Government Public Safety Legal

Four finalists named for Minnesota appeals court

Nov 24 Breaking TC 1

Gov. Tim Walz’s judicial selection panel recommended Stephanie Beckman, Lisa Beane, Liz Kramer and Anne Rasmusson for two upcoming Minnesota Court of Appeals vacancies, per a Nov. 24 release. The seats open upon the retirements of Judges Louise Dovre Bjorkman and Randall J. Slieter; one is an at‑large position and the other is designated for the 7th Congressional District.

Legal Local Government

Greystar settles rent‑fixing suit; Minnesota gets $483K

Nov 24 Dev TC 1

Minnesota’s Attorney General and eight other states filed a proposed $7 million settlement with Greystar Management Services over alleged rent‑fixing tied to RealPage’s pricing software. Greystar, which manages 31 Twin Cities apartment properties, would pay roughly $483,000 to Minnesota and accept limits on algorithmic rent‑setting, stop sharing competitively sensitive information, avoid RealPage events, and cooperate in ongoing litigation against RealPage.

Legal Housing

DHS awards $10K bonuses to MSP TSA agents

Nov 24 Breaking TC 1

On Nov. 23 at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem handed out $10,000 bonus checks to several dozen TSA agents and announced a $1 billion national investment in TSA security checkpoint technology. The bonuses recognize staff who worked through the federal shutdown, and the upgrade plan includes new scanning, X‑ray and AIT equipment across U.S. airports; FAA separately said 776 air traffic controllers/technicians with perfect attendance will also receive $10,000, while DHS has not specified the total number of TSA recipients.

Transit & Infrastructure Government

Minnesota Chamber unveils growth plan as report shows GDP, tech, innovation lag

Nov 23 TC 3

At an Economic Summit in Eagan, the Minnesota Chamber released its 2026 Business Benchmarks report and unveiled an "Economic Imperative for Growth" multiyear campaign to unite lawmakers and business leaders after finding the state's economy has fallen behind on nearly every measure of growth. The report cites about 1% per‑capita GDP growth versus 1.8% nationally, a slide in state rankings into the 30s (as low as 38th since 2019), weak tech job growth (44th in 2024), high patents per capita but poor patent growth, and warns employers that taxes, regulations and new mandates — including a paid family and medical leave program starting Jan. 1 — are deepening competitiveness concerns.

Business & Economy

Minnesota paid leave on track for Jan. 1; early applications open and 0.88% payroll tax set

Nov 23 TC 3

Minnesota’s paid family and medical leave program remains on track to begin Jan. 1, is already accepting early parental‑bonding applications, and will be funded by a 0.88% payroll tax (employers may pass on roughly half, about 0.44%, to workers). DEED says the program — projected to serve about 130,000 people in year one at an estimated $1.6 billion cost and staffed by roughly 400 state employees — will deploy layered fraud controls (LoginMN ID verification with a live selfie, mandatory health‑care provider certification and integration of electronic health records, unemployment‑insurance data flags, analytics and random audits) and drew on lessons from other states to help preserve solvency.

Business & Economy Technology Local Government

Minneapolis police chief apologizes for comments

Nov 22 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara apologized Wednesday to members of the Somali community for comments he made in a WCCO interview linking 'East African kids' to juvenile crime, saying any harm caused was not his intent while emphasizing the need to address real problems together. In a video posted by Xogmaal Media, O’Hara thanked the Somali community, reiterated his focus on youth safety, and did not retract the substance of his earlier remarks about groups coming to Dinkytown from surrounding communities; MPD did not immediately respond to a request for clarification.

Public Safety Local Government

CDC flags new H3N2 variant; flu still low

Nov 22 Dev TC 1

The CDC said Friday that U.S. flu activity remains low but a new H3N2 subclade (K) is now driving most infections, with early analysis suggesting current vaccines offer partial protection. With holidays approaching, experts warn vaccination rates appear soft—especially in pharmacies—after last winter’s severe season, heightening risk for Twin Cities residents despite only one state (Louisiana) at moderate activity so far.

Health

DHS adds Dec. 2 ICS payment stops; 97 affected as St. Paul tenants get eviction notices

Nov 22 Dev TC 3

The Minnesota Department of Human Services said it will stop Integrated Community Supports (ICS) payments on Dec. 2 to five providers covering about a dozen properties, affecting 97 participants, after investigations by the DHS inspector general found credible allegations that some providers billed for services not provided and put clients’ health and safety at risk. The suspension has prompted 60‑day and eviction notices at St. Paul’s Granite Pointe Apartments tied to Metro Care Human Services and follows an earlier halt in September that provider Jama Mahamod of American Home Health Care says led him to evict four tenants and close his business; DHS stressed that ICS service payments are separate from housing or rent.

Government/Regulatory Health Local Government

Palace Theatre sues Wrecktangle for $1.6M

Nov 22 Breaking TC 1

The Palace Theatre’s operators have sued Wrecktangle Pizza in Hennepin County District Court, alleging the company owes more than $1.6 million on a loan tied to their short‑lived joint venture, Wrestaurant at the Palace, which opened in 2023 and closed a year later amid water damage. Wrecktangle’s response admits no payments were made but counters that the Palace failed to dissolve the joint LLC, is using joint‑owned equipment for the new Palace Pub without crediting Wrecktangle, and disputes the claims; both sides tentatively agreed to a November 2026 trial if no settlement is reached.

Legal Business & Economy

Maplewood drive-by shooter gets 6-year sentence

Nov 21 Breaking TC 1

Ramsey County District Court sentenced Muhnee Jaleel Bailey, 24, to six years and three months after he pleaded guilty to drive-by shooting for firing a fully automatic handgun at a car in a Maplewood apartment lot on April 16, wounding a 22-year-old passenger as two nearby juveniles cowered. Prosecutors dismissed attempted murder and four firearm-possession counts under a plea agreement; surveillance video showed three rapid volleys and police recovered 18 casings, while Bailey received 175 days’ credit for time served.

Legal Public Safety

Minnesota employers must send PFML notices Dec. 1

Nov 21 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota’s Paid Family and Medical Leave program starts Jan. 1, 2026, but employers statewide—including in the Twin Cities—must individually notify workers of their benefits and rights by Dec. 1, 2025, in each employee’s primary language, with acknowledgment. New hires must be notified within 30 days, and workplaces must display required posters; the Minnesota State Council of SHRM warns missed deadlines can trigger complaints, investigations, and penalties.

Local Government Business & Economy

Met Council opens search for transit police chief

Nov 21 Dev TC 1

The Metropolitan Council has opened applications for a new Metro Transit Police Department chief, with interim chief Joseph Dotseth confirming he will apply. The department cited improving safety trends — serious crime down 21% year‑over‑year and officer‑initiated calls up 129% — alongside ongoing efforts such as de‑escalation training, station upgrades and the Transit Rider Investment Program; applications close Dec. 17.

Transit & Infrastructure Public Safety Local Government

90-unit senior housing planned in Maple Grove

Nov 21 Breaking TC 1

A developer plans a 90-unit senior housing building on a city-owned site in Maple Grove, Hennepin County, aiming to provide affordable options that help residents on fixed incomes age in place. The plan, reported Nov. 21, 2025, would add new senior housing capacity within the Twin Cities metro; further city reviews and approvals are expected as the project advances.

Housing Business & Economy

Education Dept finalizes PSLF employer ban rule; takes effect July 1, 2026

Nov 21 Breaking TC 3

The Education Department finalized a rule, taking effect July 1, 2026, that bars employers from qualifying for Public Service Loan Forgiveness if the department finds they are substantially involved in certain alleged illegal activities—ranging from aiding or abetting illegal immigration, supporting terrorism or violence, trafficking children across state lines, or illegal discrimination, to providing gender‑affirming care (the rule defines “chemical castration” to include puberty blockers and hormone therapy for transgender youth)—with the education secretary having final authority under a preponderance‑of‑the‑evidence standard; PSLF credit earned before the effective date is preserved and disqualified employers may reapply after 10 years or sooner via an approved corrective action plan. The rule, which stems from a March executive order, has prompted multiple legal challenges from more than 20 Democratic‑led states (led by New York, Massachusetts, California and Colorado), several cities and nonprofit and advocacy groups that say the standard is vague and exceeds the department’s authority.

Legal Education

Minneapolis issues Thanksgiving cooking safety tips

Nov 21 Breaking TC 1

The Minneapolis Fire Department, with the Minnesota State Fire Marshal, released holiday cooking safety guidance ahead of Thanksgiving, citing NFPA data that cooking is the leading cause of house fires and that 1,446 home cooking fires occurred nationwide on Thanksgiving Day 2023. Officials urge residents not to leave stovetop cooking unattended, keep combustibles away, verify smoke detectors, and, for turkey frying, never fry a frozen turkey and do it outdoors away from structures; they also outlined steps to handle small grease and oven fires.

Public Safety Local Government

St. Paul designates Hamm’s Brewery historic district

Nov 21 Breaking TC 2

St. Paul has designated the Hamm’s Brewery campus as a local heritage preservation district, a move approved this month that positions the project to use state and federal historic tax credits and guides preservation of stairways and other key elements (with some graffiti possibly retained depending on condition). Developer JB Vang plans 86 affordable artist-style lofts and a multi-story indoor marketplace in the stock house and laboratory buildings, aims to present a site plan in early 2026 and secure financing through 2026 to begin historically sensitive construction by fall 2027, and is planning practical interventions such as overhauling glass-block windows and reusing former barrel floor openings as a central 2½‑story marketplace feature; the city and developer led a Nov. 18 walking tour for stakeholders.

Local Government Housing

Critics: SAMHSA cuts imperil overdose progress

Nov 21 TC 1

The Trump administration has sharply reduced staffing and funding at SAMHSA — cutting $1.7 billion in state block grants, eliminating roughly $350 million for addiction/overdose prevention, and moving to fold the agency into a new structure — prompting warnings from public‑health leaders that national gains against overdose deaths could stall. HHS says it is prioritizing treatment and accountability, while a July court injunction temporarily blocked the reorganization; recent CDC‑linked data show U.S. overdose deaths down to 76,500 in the latest 12 months, with Minnesota among states seeing smaller increases in nonfatal overdoses. These federal cuts could reduce resources to Minnesota and Twin Cities providers that rely on SAMHSA grants for treatment and naloxone access.

Health Government/Regulatory

St. Paul OKs 2 a.m. service, unveils World Juniors fest

Nov 21 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul approved temporary ordinance changes allowing bars and restaurants with liquor licenses to apply for 2 a.m. service and noise variances during the Dec. 26–Jan. 5 World Junior Hockey Championship, while launching the free Bold North Breakaway fan festival around Rice Park and Grand Casino Arena. The 10‑day downtown festival adds ice bumper cars, ‘glice’ skating, street hockey, kids’ zones, 40 indoor vendors and New Year’s Eve fireworks as the 29‑game tournament is split between St. Paul and the University of Minnesota’s 3M Arena at Mariucci.

Local Government Business & Economy

Woodbury man gets 30 years for sextorting minors

Nov 21 Breaking TC 2

A Woodbury man was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison after prosecutors said he posed as a teenager using 66 different Snapchat aliases to coerce sexually explicit videos from minors, at times sending gruesome violent videos and hateful threats to force compliance. U.S. District Judge Jerry W. Blackwell called it a “deliberate, persistent sextortion scheme,” and authorities including the FBI, Woodbury Police and Indiana State Police investigated; under federal rules the inmate is expected to serve at least 85% of the sentence.

Legal Public Safety

77th defendant in Feeding Our Future: Minneapolis grocer Ousman Camara pleads not guilty

Nov 21 Breaking TC 2

Ousman Camara, a Minneapolis grocer, was charged as the 77th defendant in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme and entered a not guilty plea at his first court appearance Thursday. Prosecutors allege he used scheme proceeds to buy a north Minneapolis building and sent more than $100,000 abroad; the broader investigation has resulted in 56 guilty pleas and seven convictions so far, including Aimee Bock’s conviction on all counts.

Public Safety Legal

Judge hears closing arguments on Google ad-tech remedies

Nov 21 Breaking TC 2

After an April ruling that parts of Google's ad‑tech business constitute an illegal monopoly, Judge Leonie Brinkema held an 11‑day remedies trial this fall and heard closing arguments Friday in Alexandria, Virginia, with a ruling expected early next year. The DOJ urged structural divestitures, calling Google a "recidivist monopolist," while Google called such remedies legally unprecedented and risky for a system that handles roughly 55 million ad requests per second, citing AI‑driven market changes as a reason for caution and DOJ witnesses warning about subtle algorithm manipulation; for context, a separate search case saw Judge Amit Mehta reject a proposed Chrome divestiture and order reforms seen as relatively lenient.

Business & Economy Legal Technology

Solventum to buy Acera Surgical for $725M

Nov 21 Breaking TC 1

Solventum, the 3M health-care spinoff, said Friday it agreed to acquire regenerative wound care maker Acera Surgical for more than $725 million. It is Solventum’s first major deal since separating from 3M last year and signals expansion in advanced wound‑care products with potential impacts on the company’s Twin Cities operations.

Business & Economy Health

PHS West leases 91,000 sq. ft. for new HQ

Nov 21 Breaking TC 1

Manufacturer PHS West signed a 91,000‑square‑foot lease at Brockton Business Park in Corcoran, where it will establish a new headquarters, the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal reports on Nov. 21, 2025. The company said expansion needs, driven by growth in the data‑center industry, prompted the move within the Twin Cities metro.

Business & Economy Real Estate

SNAP work rules expand; USDA weighs mass ‘reapply’ review, cites standard recertification

Nov 21 TC 3

The USDA under Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins is moving to expand SNAP work requirements to additional groups — including people ages 55–64 and some parents of 14–18‑year‑olds — and will fully enforce the three‑month time limit for adults who don’t meet work rules starting in December after a waiver was lifted in November. Rollins has said the agency plans to have all SNAP recipients reapply now that the government has reopened, citing “standard recertification processes” and further regulatory and state‑data reviews, but details for a mass reapplication of roughly 42 million beneficiaries are not yet formalized; analysts warn it could create backlogs and loss of benefits for eligible families (about 40% of recipients are children), while the CBO estimates expanded rules could reduce enrollment by about 2.4 million on average per month over 10 years.

Health Business & Economy

DOC reduces Stillwater prison population

Nov 21 Dev TC 2

The Minnesota DOC has reduced the population at MCF–Stillwater — now nearing half capacity as officials advance plans to close the facility in 2029 — and has been relocating inmates to other prisons. Ahead of the closure the agency is piloting "earned living units" and on a Nov. 20 tour showcased new inmate programming spaces, including an inmate-run barbershop, a licensed tattoo studio, an art studio, a greenhouse set up in an empty cell, ongoing SUD small-group therapy and a mural program, with Commissioner Paul Schnell and Warden William Bolin participating.

Public Safety Local Government

DOC pilots 'earned living units' at Stillwater

Nov 21 TC 1

The Minnesota Department of Corrections showcased 'earned living units' inside MCF–Stillwater during a Nov. 20 media tour in Bayport, unveiling inmate‑operated spaces such as a barbershop ('Street Cuts'), a licensed tattoo studio, a greenhouse and an art studio as the facility winds down toward a 2029 closure. Commissioner Paul Schnell and Warden William Bolin said inmates are being moved to other facilities as part of the transition, with ongoing SUD therapy and creative programs continuing on site.

Public Safety Local Government

Judge orders USCIS to restore SIJS protections

Nov 21 Breaking TC 1

A federal judge ordered U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025, to resume considering deferred action (deportation protection) and work permits for youths with Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, after the Trump administration rescinded the 2022 program in June. The ruling by U.S. District Judge Eric Komitee requires USCIS to accept applications from new and existing SIJS designees while the lawsuit proceeds, affecting eligible immigrant youth nationwide, including in the Twin Cities.

Legal Health & Human Services

Home insurance costs spike across Minnesota

Nov 21 TC 1

FOX 9 reports Nov. 20 that Minnesota homeowners — including in the Twin Cities — are seeing hazard insurance premiums jump as much as 40% and significant increases to wind and hail deductibles (often from $1,500 to $5,000 or to a percentage of home value), driven by severe weather losses and claims. The Minnesota Department of Commerce urges consumers to shop policies and consider weatherproofing for discounts, while State Farm says it paid out $1.30 in claims/expenses per $1 in Minnesota premiums over the past five years.

Business & Economy Housing

Jury convicts 2nd man in Coon Rapids triple murder

Nov 20 Breaking TC 1

An Anoka County jury convicted Demetrius Trenton Shumpert, 32, of Minneapolis, on three counts of aiding and abetting first-degree murder and six other charges for a Jan. 26, 2024 home-invasion triple killing in Coon Rapids. Prosecutors said Shumpert and two accomplices posed as UPS drivers, demanded money, and fatally shot Shannon Jungwirth, her son Jorge Reyes‑Jungwirth, and her husband Mario Trejo Estrada; Shumpert will be sentenced Jan. 8, while co-defendant Alonzo Mingo is already serving life and Shumpert’s brother Omar faces trial next month.

Legal Public Safety

White House expands tariff relief to Brazilian coffee, fruit and beef

Nov 20 Breaking TC 3

The White House said it will extend tariff relief to Brazilian imports by excluding certain products from both April’s global rollback under Executive Order 14257 and the punitive July tariffs on Brazil, covering coffee, fruit and beef as well as related items such as tea, tropical fruits and juices, cocoa, spices, bananas, oranges, tomatoes and some fertilizers. The move — framed as easing grocery-price pressures (roasted coffee and ground beef have shown large year‑over‑year CPI gains) — resolves a gap Brazil had flagged, draws industry praise, and comes as President Trump and Brazil’s President Lula negotiate further trade steps.

Government & Policy Government/Regulatory National Policy

Ortega to seek re‑election to Ramsey County Board

Nov 20 Breaking TC 1

Ramsey County Board Chair Rafael Ortega said Thursday he will run for re‑election in District 5, the seat he has held since 1994. The announcement comes a day after St. Paul City Council President Rebecca Noecker told supporters she plans to run for the same seat; both represent downtown St. Paul and West Seventh, areas affected by county transit and economic‑development decisions.

Elections Local Government

Ramsey County names deputy manager, reorganizes services

Nov 20 Breaking TC 1

Ramsey County appointed CFO Alex Kotze as deputy county manager and chief operating officer effective Dec. 1, 2025, and outlined an internal restructuring that creates an Operations Service Team and sunsets the Strategic Team and Information and Public Records Service Team as of Jan. 1. Kotze, who has overseen the county’s $870 million budget since 2020 and previously served as interim deputy for Health and Wellness, will lead strategy for property management, finance and information services as the county streamlines operations.

Local Government Business & Economy

Ramsey County drops final case against ex‑Bethel player

Nov 20 Breaking TC 1

The Ramsey County Attorney’s Office on Monday dismissed its last remaining criminal sexual conduct case against former Bethel University football player Gideon Osamwonyi Erhabor, saying it could not prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. The dismissed case alleged a 2018 assault at a Roseville house party; Erhabor had already been acquitted in two separate 2018 incidents after an October 2022 jury trial and a June 2025 bench trial.

Legal Public Safety

St. Paul mayor‑elect Her names transition team

Nov 20 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul Mayor‑elect Kaohly Vang Her announced her transition team on Nov. 20, appointing Erica Schumacher and Hnu Vang as co‑leaders to help select department heads and senior City Hall staff. The team also includes Nick Stumo‑Langer as transition advisor, Matt Wagenius as communications director/press secretary, and Bridget Hajny as scheduler/office manager; Her resigned her state House seat earlier this week following her Nov. 4 victory.

Local Government Elections

Target cuts prices on 3,000 everyday items

Nov 20 Breaking TC 1

Target said it will reduce prices on 3,000 food and household items to boost value during the holidays and help reverse a sales slump. The company also narrowed its 2025 earnings outlook, cited continued traffic softness, and outlined a $5 billion 2026 investment plan for store remodels, new large-format locations, and supply chain/tech upgrades.

Business & Economy

Hennepin touts data showing youth diversion works

Nov 20 TC 1

The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office and the University of Minnesota presented new juvenile justice data indicating early‑intervention diversion programs reduce reoffending and teen auto thefts. Officials said that among 127 youths who received early intervention last year, fewer than one‑third reoffended, and teen auto‑theft cases are down 58% since the county launched a youth auto‑theft initiative.

Public Safety Local Government

St. Paul OKs trash cart sharing for small multifamily

Nov 20 Breaking TC 1

The St. Paul City Council voted 7–0 on Nov. 19 to allow tenants in duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes to share trash carts starting Jan. 1, 2026, with defined overflow penalties and potential revocation if carts repeatedly overflow. The ordinance also lets adjacent properties under the same owner request dumpster service from the city and, if unavailable, seek city‑approved private service; owners of 5+ unit buildings may opt into coordinated collection to share carts.

Local Government Utilities

Average 30-year mortgage rate ticks up to 6.22% after four-week slide

Nov 20 Breaking TC 3

Freddie Mac said the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate rose to 6.22% from 6.17%, the first uptick after a four-week slide, while the 15-year fixed rate climbed to about 5.50%. The rise coincided with a roughly 4.09%–4.10% 10-year Treasury yield midday Thursday and comes amid mixed Fed signals — recent rate cuts but Chair Powell’s caution that a December cut isn’t guaranteed and tariff-driven inflation risks — with traders pricing roughly a 44% chance of a December cut.

Housing Business & Economy

30-year mortgage rate edges up to 6.26%

Nov 20 Dev TC 1

Freddie Mac said Thursday, Nov. 20, that the average U.S. 30‑year fixed mortgage rate rose to 6.26% from 6.24% a week earlier, the third straight weekly increase, while the 15‑year average rose to 5.54%. The update, which influences homebuying power in the Twin Cities, comes as the 10‑year Treasury hovered near 4.10% and markets trimmed expectations for a December Fed rate cut.

Housing Business & Economy

Waymo begins Minneapolis mapping with <10 cars, human drivers; seeks approval for autonomous rides

Nov 20 Breaking TC 2

Waymo has begun mapping and early testing in Minneapolis with a fleet of "less than 10" Jaguar I‑PACE and Zeekr RT vehicles driven by humans, using its sixth‑generation Waymo Driver and self‑cleaning sensors tuned for snow and ice after winter‑prep testing in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, California’s Sierra Nevada and upstate New York. The company says no permits are required for this mapping phase but will work with state and city officials as it seeks commercial approval and plans a phased expansion model like San Francisco aiming for airport and freeway connectivity, drawing support from state House transportation co-chairs and MADD Minnesota.

Technology Transit & Infrastructure

Opioid settlement funds used for K-9s, admin

Nov 20 TC 1

A Minnesota Reformer analysis details how cities and counties spent opioid settlement dollars in 2024, including Hennepin County’s administrative hires and medical examiner costs and Minneapolis’ $500,000 grant to Turning Point. While most spending went to treatment, recovery and prevention, some counties used funds for law-enforcement K‑9 units and drug‑crime investigator salaries; overall local spending rose to more than $17 million in 2024 as settlements are set to deliver roughly $633 million to Minnesota, with 75% going directly to local governments.

Health Local Government Public Safety

St. Paul seeks 120-day pause in $22M permit-fee suit

Nov 20 Dev TC 1

St. Paul City Attorney Lyndsey Olson asked Ramsey County Judge Leonardo Castro on Nov. 10 for another 120-day stay in a class-action lawsuit alleging the city overcharged building-permit fees by more than $22 million from 2018–2023, citing records still not migrated to the new PAULIE system after a cyberattack. Plaintiff Patrick Bollom’s attorney, Shawn Raiter, said they would accept a partial stay while allowing other case work to proceed; a prior 120-day pause was granted in August, and a new continuance could push the case into February under the incoming mayoral administration.

Legal Local Government

Officials cite federal reimbursement cuts, mandates behind 2026 levy hikes nearing $1B

Nov 20 TC 5

Preliminary data show Minnesota’s proposed 2026 property tax levies could rise by about $948 million statewide — up to roughly 6.9% in preliminary figures — with every county proposing increases (more than a dozen double‑digit hikes) and steep city proposals in places such as Otsego (~19%), Arden Hills (~18%) and Lino Lakes (~16%), while Hennepin County’s proposal is nearly 8%. Officials and local government groups say the pressure stems largely from federal reimbursement cuts and new mandates — including reduced SNAP and Medicaid administrative reimbursements and EMT reimbursement cuts — coupled with rising labor, materials and insurance costs; truth‑in‑taxation meetings are scheduled late November–December, final levies are due Dec. 29, and the Department of Revenue will release final totals after the February forecast.

Local Government Business & Economy

Lakeville OKs first mosque at former office

Nov 20 Breaking TC 1

The Lakeville City Council unanimously approved establishing the city’s first mosque at the former Lakeville Area Schools district office on 210th Street near McGuire Middle School. Project leaders said staggered daily worship times and a 75‑space lot will manage parking, and supporters noted it will spare worshipers long drives to mosques in Rosemount or Burnsville despite some resident concerns about traffic and noise.

Local Government

THC drink startup cofounder charged with theft

Nov 20 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota-based Crooked Beverage Company co-founder Richard Schenk has been charged with two felony theft counts, accused of taking tens of thousands of dollars from the THC beverage startup. Court documents and co-founder Ryan Winkler say Schenk spent company funds on personal expenses (including mortgage and luxury items), allegedly faked an email to dodge a $300,000 debt to his ex-wife, resigned when confronted, and then allegedly withdrew another $48,000; the company says it remains in operation with products in hundreds of Minnesota locations and 10 states.

Legal Business & Economy Cannabis

Washington County unveils $12M emergency shelter

Nov 19 Breaking TC 1

Washington County held a Nov. 19 ribbon cutting for its first county-run homeless shelter on the Stillwater Government Center campus, a $12 million, 30-room Emergency Housing Services Building set to open in the second week of December. The 24/7 facility offers private rooms with bathrooms (including two fully accessible rooms), on-site supports (social services, transportation, legal help, computer lab), and is designed for average 90-day stays while staff connect adults to permanent housing and jobs.

Housing Local Government

St. Paul bans cryptocurrency kiosks citywide in 6–1 vote

Nov 19 Dev TC 2

The St. Paul City Council adopted an ordinance Nov. 19, 2025, banning cryptocurrency kiosks citywide in a 6–1 vote. Council President Rebecca Noecker led the push after presentations on scams — councilmembers Saura Jost and Cheniqua Johnson cited concerns about at least 32 kiosks in the city and 51 scam reports totaling about $700,000 statewide — while Council Member Anika Bowie was the lone dissent, saying a ban would shift the problem to neighboring cities; a Bitcoin Depot representative spoke at the hearing but did not signal immediate legal action, though the company sued over a similar Stillwater ban.

Legal Local Government Public Safety

Starbucks Red Cup Day strike includes Minneapolis

Nov 19 Dev TC 3

A nationwide Starbucks strike that has indefinitely shuttered more than 65 stores in about 40 cities coincided with the company’s busy Red Cup Day after bargaining broke down in April. Two Twin Cities locations — the unionized St. Anthony store at 3704 Silverlake Rd (unionized 2022) and the unionized Chanhassen store at 190 Lake Dr (unionized 2024) — remained closed after Thursday’s walkout, and there are currently no remaining unionized St. Paul locations while employees at Seventh & Davern have petitioned the NLRB. At the St. Anthony site police arrested a man and woman after super glue and expanding foam were found in the locks and demonstrators later blocked the drive‑through; Starbucks said it was on track to meet or exceed same‑day sales, touts its wages and benefits, and accused the union of walking away from talks.

Public Safety Business & Economy Legal

Two arrested after St. Anthony Starbucks vandalism

Nov 19 Breaking TC 1

St. Anthony police arrested a man and a woman Wednesday morning after workers found the Silver Lake Road Starbucks’ door locks filled with super glue and expanding foam, preventing opening amid an ongoing strike. The pair allegedly fled in a vehicle, were stopped and booked into the Ramsey County Adult Detention Center on suspicion of felony property damage, and police later returned when demonstrators blocked the drive‑through.

Public Safety Legal

FOF juror‑bribe defendant Ladan Ali jailed for probation violation

Nov 19 Dev TC 1

Court records indicate Ladan Mohamed Ali was arrested Nov. 9 and is being held in the Scott County jail after failing to appear for a probation‑violation hearing; she was ordered last week to serve 30 days in county jail after admitting to a violation. Ali previously pleaded guilty in Sept. 2024 to attempting to bribe a juror in the Feeding Our Future case and earlier received probation in a Scott County check‑forgery case.

Legal Public Safety

Trump move extends acting CFPB chief, signals shutdown

Nov 19 Dev TC 1

President Donald Trump nominated OMB associate director Stuart Levenbach to lead the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, a step the White House acknowledges is intended to pause the vacancies clock and keep Budget Director Russell Vought as acting CFPB chief while pursuing plans to shut the agency. The administration also said it will not draw Federal Reserve funds to operate the CFPB beyond Dec. 31, relying on a disputed legal theory, a move that could curtail federal consumer‑finance oversight for Twin Cities residents and institutions.

Government/Regulatory Business & Economy

MnDOT sets Robert Street project meetings

Nov 19 Breaking TC 1

MnDOT will hold public meetings in St. Paul as it begins visual quality planning for the Robert Street reconstruction between Page Street and Cesar Chavez Street, part of a project to replace pavement and sidewalks and improve safety. Meetings are at Backstory Coffee Roasters, 432 Wabasha St. S., on Monday from 9–11 a.m. and Dec. 10 from noon–1 p.m.; Project Manager Chris Bower and partners will gather feedback to reduce community impacts ahead of phased construction slated for 2027–2028.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Ford recalls 229,609 Broncos, Bronco Sports

Nov 19 Breaking TC 1

Ford is recalling 229,609 U.S. vehicles — 101,002 Ford Broncos and 128,607 Bronco Sports from model years 2025–2026 — because the instrument panel may fail to display at startup, leaving drivers without critical safety information and increasing crash risk. NHTSA says owner notification letters begin Dec. 8 and dealers will install a software update at no cost; Ford reports no known injuries. Twin Cities owners can reference NHTSA recall 25V540 and contact local Ford/Lincoln dealers for repairs.

Public Safety Transportation

Target Q3 profit falls 19%, warns on holidays

Nov 19 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis-based Target reported third-quarter profit of $689 million, down 19% year over year, with adjusted EPS of $1.78 on $25.27 billion in sales (-1.5%). Comparable sales fell 2.7% and the company expects the sales slump to extend through the holiday season; Target also plans to invest an additional $1 billion next year to remodel and build stores (total makeover now $5 billion) and said Michael Fiddelke will succeed CEO Brian Cornell on Feb. 1.

Business & Economy

Capitol security officer pleads guilty to DWI

Nov 19 Dev TC 1

Cristian Orea, a Minnesota State Capitol security officer, pleaded guilty Monday in Hennepin County District Court to fourth-degree DWI tied to a July 14 incident at a Minneapolis Lake Street bar where he allegedly posed as an undercover officer. He’ll serve just under a month on house arrest and two years’ probation; the impersonating-a-peace-officer charge will be dismissed upon successful completion, prosecutors dropped third-degree DWI and carrying a pistol under the influence, and the State Patrol says he remains on paid investigatory leave.

Legal Public Safety

ICE deportation flight observed at MSP

Nov 19 TC 1

A Minnesota Reformer reporter and photographer documented about 20 ICE detainees in shackles boarding a Key Lime Air charter on the MSP tarmac the morning of Nov. 12, 2025, as three unmarked vans delivered them under federal escort. The Metropolitan Airports Commission said federal law prevents MSP from restricting such operations and that it receives no advance notice of non‑commercial flights; one detainee described being flown to Louisiana before removal to Ecuador amid an uptick in deportations.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Mifepristone lawsuits update; new FOIA case

Nov 19 TC 2

Amid ongoing litigation over mifepristone, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ordered a new FDA safety review citing a self‑published white paper funded and publicized by anti‑abortion groups, including Americans United for Life, which criticized the FDA’s approval of a new generic. Alliance Defending Freedom says it represents a Louisiana plaintiff in related litigation and expects an appeal of a recent court order, while the ACLU’s Nov. 13 FOIA suit seeks the parameters of the FDA review and the agency’s communications with outside groups.

Legal Health

MN Senate probes Twin Cities college grant cuts

Nov 19 TC 1

A Minnesota Senate subcommittee heard testimony that federal agencies have terminated or suspended more than $50 million in higher‑education awards statewide, including 101 University of Minnesota research awards worth $33 million and five St. Catherine University grants totaling $2.4 million, with Augsburg University’s McNair Scholars program among those defunded. The hearing, held last week, examined how Trump administration policy shifts canceling or suspending awards—some tied to diversity or antiracism references—are affecting research, workforce pipelines, and first‑generation and underrepresented students at Twin Cities institutions.

Education Local Government

St. Paul man admits 2022 fatal stabbing

Nov 19 Breaking TC 1

Maurice Angelo McClinton Smith, 42, pleaded guilty Tuesday in Ramsey County District Court to second-degree intentional murder for fatally stabbing 47-year-old Tina M. McCombs in her North End St. Paul apartment on Jan. 9, 2022. Appearing via Zoom from St. Peter Regional Treatment Center, Smith acknowledged drug and alcohol use before the attack and told his attorney he wrongly believed McCombs was his mother; sentencing is set for Feb. 13.

Legal Public Safety

State records show Savage daycare was cited for safety violations before infant's death

Nov 18 Dev TC 3

State inspection records show Rocking Horse Ranch Childcare in Savage had been cited for safety violations before the infant boy’s September death, and state officials have suspended the facility’s license. A Savage Police affidavit focuses on a specific employee linked to two prior medical incidents in which an infant girl vomited a "blood‑like" substance and to the infant boy, and investigators say the employee re‑created events for them. Preliminary autopsy results reportedly found no physical injuries and no common poisons; police say the final cause of death is pending, are not ruling out any possible causes, and have urged parents to closely monitor their children.

Legal Public Safety Health

MnDOT denies permit for Lift Bridge tug-of-war

Nov 18 Breaking TC 2

MnDOT denied a permit for the annual Vikings-Packers tug-of-war on the Stillwater Lift Bridge, prompting organizer Ryan Nelson of Guv’s Place in Hudson to relocate the event to Hudson’s Old Toll Bridge. Last year’s event drew about 150 participants and raised $4,000 for first responders; organizers say the move could boost Wisconsin businesses while Stillwater’s mayor explores whether the city could assume permitting to bring it back, though MnDOT’s willingness to reconsider remains unclear.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Mpls man charged in New Hope burglaries

Nov 18 Breaking TC 1

Jonte Jamel Yates, 36, of Minneapolis, is charged in Hennepin County with one count of first‑degree burglary and four counts of second‑degree burglary tied to a string of New Hope break‑ins between Nov. 1 and 12. A court complaint says surveillance video led the Hennepin County Intelligence Unit to identify Yates; he was arrested after a pursuit, and a search recovered items resembling those seen in the footage, with phone data placing him near the scenes. The complaint notes Yates previously admitted in an earlier case to targeting Hispanic residents, believing they were less likely to report crimes.

Public Safety Legal

DOJ sues Minnesota for full voter rolls

Nov 18 Breaking TC 3

The Department of Justice has sued Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon, demanding the state's voter registration records as part of a coordinated set of lawsuits against six states within a broader push that included data requests to about 40 states. Ten Democratic secretaries of state, including Simon, have asked DOJ and DHS for details and security assurances after learning DOJ shared state rolls with DHS to run citizenship checks through the SAVE system despite earlier assurances the data would be used only to assess HAVA/NVRA compliance and amid contradictory statements from federal officials.

Legal Elections

Honda recalls 256K Accord Hybrids for power-loss risk

Nov 18 Breaking TC 1

Honda is recalling 256,603 Accord Hybrids from model years 2023–2025 nationwide because a software error can reset the integrated control module CPU while driving, potentially causing a sudden loss of drive power, according to NHTSA filings on Nov. 18, 2025. Dealers will reprogram the software free; owner letters are slated for Jan. 5, and Honda reports 832 warranty claims and no injuries to date. Twin Cities owners can verify VINs on NHTSA’s recall site or Honda’s lookup and call 1-888-234-2138 for assistance.

Public Safety Technology

Mohamud Bulle sentenced to 19.5 years for 2013 Minneapolis park rape after DNA backlog testing

Nov 18 Breaking TC 4

Mohamud Bulle, 36, was sentenced to 235 months (19.5 years) — 187 months for first‑degree criminal sexual conduct and 48 months for kidnapping, to run consecutively — after a jury convicted him in the Oct. 13, 2013 rape of Melissa Zimmerman in a Minneapolis park. The case was solved after the BCA tested a 2013 sexual‑assault kit in 2020 under the federal SAKI backlog program, producing a DNA profile that linked to another case in May 2024 and to Bulle in October 2024 when his DNA was obtained in an unrelated matter; Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty apologized for earlier delays, and Bulle, who received a separate 36‑month sentence in 2025, is incarcerated at MCF–Rush City with a projected release in March 2038 (248 days credit).

Legal Public Safety

Judge OKs Purdue deal; Sacklers to pay $7B

Nov 18 Dev TC 1

A U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge said he will issue his reasoning Tuesday for approving Purdue Pharma’s nationwide opioid settlement, which includes up to $7 billion from the Sackler family over 15 years and creates a successor company, Knoa Pharma, overseen by a state‑appointed board. The plan directs most funds to governments for opioid abatement and reserves about $850 million for individual victims, with eligible OxyContin patients and survivors slated to receive payments as soon as next year; those who opt out may still sue Sackler family members.

Legal Health

Medica to acquire UCare’s 2026 Medicaid and individual plans; ~300,000 members transition in MN/WI

Nov 18 Breaking TC 3

Medica, the Minnetonka-based insurer, will acquire all of UCare’s 2026 Medicaid and individual/family plans, absorbing roughly 300,000 members in Minnesota and western Wisconsin — the bulk of UCare’s business — in a transaction expected to close in Q1 2026 pending regulatory approvals, with financial terms undisclosed. Both CEOs say services will continue without interruption, MNsure says exchange coverage and costs won’t change for 2026 and is coordinating the transition, and Senate Commerce Chair Sen. Matt Klein will monitor impacts on consumer choice and access; UCare had earlier ended its Medicare Advantage contracts as its board explored options.

Health Business & Economy

White Bear Lake father gets 128 months for infant’s death

Nov 18 Breaking TC 1

Mark Russell Forster, 40, of White Bear Lake, was sentenced Monday to 128 months in prison in Ramsey County District Court after entering a Norgaard plea to second‑degree unintentional murder in the March 2024 death of his 8‑week‑old son, Jackson Dallas Forster. Prosecutors said medical findings showed injuries consistent with abusive head trauma; Forster received 460 days’ credit for time served and the negotiated term falls at the low end of state guidelines.

Legal Public Safety

St. Paul hit-and-run: Michael Kentrell Smith charged with vehicular homicide in death of Amber Deneen

Nov 18 Breaking TC 5

Michael Kentrell Smith, 39, was arrested and charged with vehicular homicide in Ramsey County after a hit-and-run on St. Anthony Avenue that killed 30-year-old Amber O. Deneen and her two dogs; police allege Smith slowed but did not stop at a stop sign before striking Deneen and witnesses say they followed and honked at the dark-colored SUV as it fled. Surveillance video shows the SUV at a nearby Speedway inspecting the front passenger tire, Smith told officers he thought he hit bike-lane cones and later said, “I don’t remember hitting nobody,” and his first court appearance is set for Tuesday while neighbors plan a memorial and police increase local speed enforcement.

Legal Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Metro Transit settles bus–skateboarder suit for $500K

Nov 17 Breaking TC 1

Metro Transit agreed to pay $500,000 — the maximum allowed under Minnesota’s liability cap for government entities — to Bradley Legrid, who was run over by a bus while riding a motorized skateboard in the crosswalk at Lake Street and Hennepin Avenue in Minneapolis. Legrid suffered severe injuries, and his attorney criticized the state cap as incentivizing agencies to delay settlements; Metro Transit declined to comment on the case’s details.

Legal Transit & Infrastructure

Sen. Steve Cwodzinski to retire in 2026

Nov 17 Breaking TC 2

Sen. Steve Cwodzinski announced he will retire and will not seek reelection in 2026. In a statement thanking constituents in Eden Prairie and Minnetonka, he invoked the Constitution’s “more perfect union” language, and his Senate District 49 is forecast to significantly favor the DFL in 2026.

Local Government Elections

Rep. Sandra Feist to retire after term

Nov 17 Breaking TC 2

Rep. Sandra Feist said she will not seek reelection in 2026 and plans to pivot back to immigration work after her term. Feist represents HD 39B, which covers parts of Hennepin, Ramsey and Anoka counties and is considered a safe DFL seat, and her legislative record includes authoring the North Star Act (a sanctuary-state proposal) and notable positions on a menstrual-products bill.

Local Government Elections

Wayzata sets April 14, 2026 special election; $465M bonds plus separate $31M pool question on ballot

Nov 17 Breaking TC 2

The Wayzata School Board voted 6–1 on Nov. 10, 2025, to hold a special election April 14, 2026, with three ballot questions: an extension of the tech levy, $465 million in general obligation bonds for new schools and upgrades, and a separate $31 million GO bond for an eight‑lane pool with a diving well at Wayzata High School (contingent on passage of the second question) that would be permitted for community use. The district—enrollment topped 13,000 and is projected to exceed capacity at every grade level by 2027–28—has submitted the proposal to the Minnesota Department of Education for approval; Director Valentina Eyres cast the lone no vote questioning the pool and the April special election, and Superintendent Dr. Chace Anderson plans to retire at the end of the 2025–26 school year.

Local Government Elections Education

Bird flu drives MN turkey losses, prices higher

Nov 17 TC 1

A Chicago Tribune/Pioneer Press report says Minnesota has accounted for over a third of recent U.S. bird‑flu turkey cases, with more than 716,000 commercial turkeys affected since August and over 1 million since the start of 2025, contributing to higher wholesale and fresh‑bird prices ahead of Thanksgiving. Experts note national turkey production is down nearly 10% year over year, labor costs are up, and fresh birds are most affected while frozen supplies are less impacted; officials expect the fall surge to ease but warn spring migration could renew risks and breeder‑hen losses may tighten supply into 2026.

Health Business & Economy

U-Haul chase ends in St. Paul arrest

Nov 17 Breaking TC 1

The Chisago County Sheriff’s Office says a U-Haul van fled a traffic stop near Stacy on Sunday night for lane violations and no plates, leading to a multi-agency pursuit that ended in St. Paul when the driver ran and was arrested. Authorities attempted stop sticks multiple times; the driver, who had an outstanding warrant, was booked into the Chisago County Jail for fleeing, warrants, and traffic violations, with additional charges under review.

Public Safety Legal

South St. Paul woman critically hurt in hit-and-run

Nov 17 Breaking TC 1

South St. Paul police say a woman was found early Monday with life-threatening injuries consistent with being struck and/or dragged by a vehicle. Chief Brian Wicke said police believe the driver and victim knew each other; the driver fled before officers arrived, the vehicle was later found, and no arrests had been made as of Monday morning. Investigators are canvassing the area and ask anyone with information to call 651-413-8300.

Public Safety Legal

St. Paul foundations launch $23M housing initiative

Nov 17 Breaking TC 1

The St. Paul & Minnesota Foundation, with the F.R. Bigelow and Mardag foundations, announced a five‑year, $20 million “Our Home State” initiative on Nov. 17 to expand access to safe, stable and affordable housing across Minnesota; St. Paul–based Ecolab added $3 million, bringing the total to $23 million. Early investments will focus on eviction prevention, shelter capacity, affordable housing production and policy/narrative work, with leaders emphasizing support for community‑led solutions that include the Twin Cities.

Housing Business & Economy

Novo cuts Wegovy list price to $349

Nov 17 Breaking TC 1

Novo Nordisk said Monday it reduced the list price for higher-dose Wegovy to $349/month (from $499) for cash‑paying patients and launched a temporary $199/month offer for the first two months of low‑dose Wegovy and Ozempic, aligning with a recent federal drug‑pricing framework. The price changes apply nationwide via pharmacies, home delivery and some telemedicine providers; clinicians and surveys still cite affordability challenges for patients without insurance.

Health Business & Economy

St. Paul eases mixed‑use zoning, launches corridor study

Nov 17 Breaking TC 1

The St. Paul City Council voted 7–0 on Wednesday to simplify and update standards in its T1–T4 'Traditional Neighborhood' zoning districts—aimed at encouraging pedestrian‑oriented, mixed‑use development—and immediately launched a follow‑up study to consider expanding T zoning along transit corridors. Changes include new corner parking setbacks, strengthened street‑level frontage requirements, floor‑area bonuses tied to affordable units, and clarification of height allowances; the Planning Commission recommended approval 12–0 on Sept. 5 and the council held a public hearing Nov. 5.

Local Government Housing

MnDOT to brief Hastings U.S. 61 rebuild Tuesday

Nov 17 Breaking TC 1

MnDOT will hold a public meeting at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, at Hastings City Hall to outline a $30–$40 million reconstruction of U.S. 61 between just north of 3rd Street and just south of 36th Street. Plans include roundabouts at MN 316 and 36th Street, a new signal at 18th Street, new sidewalks and ADA ramps, and replacement of the historic Todd Field wall to meet safety standards, with construction slated for fall 2027 through spring 2029 (most work in 2028). Funding comes from the Metropolitan Council’s Regional Solicitation and MnDOT’s Transportation Economic Development program.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Wrong-way crash on Hwy 169 kills Shakopee woman

Nov 16 Breaking TC 1

A Pontiac Grand Am traveling south in the northbound lanes of Highway 169 in Bloomington collided with a Hyundai Sonata near Anderson Lakes Parkway just before 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, pushing the Hyundai into a Ford F-150. The Pontiac’s driver, 29-year-old Jasmine Jayde Nanclares of Shakopee, died at the scene; the Hyundai driver suffered non-life-threatening injuries and those in the F-150 were unhurt. The Minnesota State Patrol is investigating and said seat belt use and alcohol remain unknown.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Man shot at Maple Grove Benihana, suspect flees

Nov 16 Breaking TC 1

Maple Grove police say a 33-year-old man was shot in the groin during an altercation with another man at the Benihana on Fountains Drive around 4:30 p.m. Friday. The victim was hospitalized with a non-life-threatening injury, and the suspect fled in a vehicle; investigators believe the incident was not random and ask anyone with information to call 763-494-6100.

Public Safety Legal

Shakopee shooting critically injures 40-year-old man

Nov 15 Breaking TC 1

Shakopee police say a 40-year-old man was found with multiple gunshot wounds around 3:13 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, on Grove Drive and was hospitalized in critical condition. Investigators believe the shooting was not random and report no ongoing danger to the area; no arrests or suspect information have been released.

Public Safety

St. Paul police adopt first AI-use policy

Nov 15 TC 1

The St. Paul Police Department has implemented its first policy governing artificial intelligence, currently limiting use to automated transcription of interviews, and says it has no short‑term plan to adopt Axon’s Draft One report‑writing tool. Neighboring agencies differ: Eagan police use Draft One for non‑felonies (accepted by the Eagan City Attorney), while Hennepin and Dakota county attorneys won’t accept Draft One reports and Ramsey County requires notice when AI tools are used in investigations; civil oversight members and the ACLU of Minnesota are urging public input and guardrails.

Local Government Public Safety Technology

Congress passes shutdown bill with 0.4 mg hemp‑THC cap; 1‑year phase‑in alarms MN beverage industry

Nov 15 Dev TC 5

Congress has passed a stopgap funding bill that includes a national cap of 0.4 mg hemp‑derived THC per container, taking effect in one year and overriding higher state per‑serving limits (Minnesota currently allows ~5 mg), a measure pushed to close a 2018 Farm Bill looph and intended to block unregulated intoxicating hemp products. Minnesota brewers, retailers and hemp beverage makers warn the cap would effectively ban most THC edibles and drinks and devastate a roughly $140–200 million local market — though regulators say licensing and oversight remain unchanged until the cap’s effective date and industry groups urge business as usual in the interim.

Legal & Regulatory Local Government Business & Economy

Disney, YouTube TV end blackout, restore channels

Nov 15 Breaking TC 2

Disney and YouTube TV reached a new carriage agreement that ended a blackout that began the night of Oct. 30 and lasted just over two weeks, with ABC, ESPN and other Disney‑owned channels including NatGeo, FX, Freeform, the SEC Network and ACC Network restored over the course of Nov. 14, the companies said. The sides traded public accusations during negotiations — Disney executives Alan Bergman, Dana Walden and Jimmy Pitaro said YouTube TV refused fair rates and was leveraging its dominance, while YouTube TV said Disney's terms were costly and would reduce consumer choice — after a prior 2021 disruption that lasted less than two days.

Business & Economy Technology

Twin Cities hits 72°F, latest‑season record warmth; fall likely top‑10 warmest

Nov 15 Breaking TC 2

The Twin Cities reached 72°F Friday — the warmest temperature ever recorded this late in the season in records back to 1872 — while St. Cloud tied its daily high at 68°F. State climatologist says autumn 2025 is likely to rank among Minnesota’s top-10 warmest seasons and nearly 63% of the state is abnormally dry or in drought, though a weak cold front should bring temperatures closer to normal in the coming days.

Weather Environment

Couple pleads guilty in Twin Cities Lululemon thefts

Nov 15 Dev TC 1

A Connecticut couple, Jadion Anthony Richards, 45, and Akwele Nickeisha Lawes‑Richards, 46, pleaded guilty in Ramsey County District Court on Nov. 14 to one felony count each of organized retail theft in a global deal covering Ramsey and Hennepin charges tied to Lululemon thefts in Roseville, Edina, Minneapolis and Minnetonka. The case marks Ramsey County’s first convictions under Minnesota’s 2023 organized retail theft law; police previously recovered over $50,000 in stolen merchandise from a JW Marriott Mall of America hotel room after a Nov. 14, 2024 Roseville theft, and sentencing with restitution is set for Jan. 30, with stayed prison terms and probation expected.

Legal Public Safety

DNA IDs mother in 1983 Blaine infant case

Nov 15 Breaking TC 2

Forensic DNA analysis by Othram has identified the mother of the newborn found in 1983 on Main Street between MN 65 and Radisson Road in Blaine, confirming the infant as "Rachel Marie Doe." The mother told investigators she gave birth alone at home, found the baby unresponsive and believed it was stillborn before leaving the infant roadside; a community funeral was held in 1983 and the child was buried in a local church cemetery, authorities say the Midwest Medical Examiner’s re-examination could not determine live birth and relatives, including the father, were reportedly unaware of the pregnancy.

Legal Public Safety

St. Paul death after Westminster St. assault

Nov 14 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul police say a man died Friday after officers responding about 11:40 a.m. to an assault at an apartment complex on the 1500 block of Westminster Street found him with lacerations to his back and head. A woman who reported the assault was taken to Regions Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries; no arrests have been made, police say there is no ongoing public threat, and the Ramsey County Medical Examiner will identify the man and determine cause of death.

Public Safety

Fridley man charged with criminal vehicular homicide in I-94 Dale St. crash that killed St. Paul driver

Nov 14 Breaking TC 3

Musab Ibrahim Kosar, 22, of Fridley, has been charged with criminal vehicular homicide after his Tesla sped off I‑94, exited at Dale Street with its headlights reportedly turned off, and struck a Toyota RAV4 at Dale and Rondo Avenue in St. Paul, killing 31‑year‑old St. Paul baker Benjamin Michael Villano. A state trooper who followed the Tesla clocked it at 84 mph and later over 100 mph but did not activate lights or sirens before the crash; Kosar and a 19‑year‑old passenger were hospitalized with serious injuries. The passenger, who suffered fractures and a dislocated hip, told investigators she had asked Kosar to stop speeding and that they had broken up earlier that day, and the criminal complaint alleges Kosar’s operation was “grossly negligent.”

Transit & Infrastructure Legal Public Safety

FDA adds boxed warning to Duchenne gene therapy

Nov 14 Breaking TC 1

The FDA on Nov. 14 added a boxed warning to Sarepta Therapeutics’ Elevidys gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy after two patient deaths and limited its approved use to ambulatory patients age 4 and older. New labeling also recommends weekly liver‑function monitoring for the first three months post‑infusion and other precautions, affecting how Twin Cities providers prescribe and monitor the one‑time treatment.

Health Government/Regulatory

Leaked DHS emails flag 2022 grant draw risk

Nov 14 TC 1

Internal Minnesota DHS messages from December 2022 show CFO Dave Greeman warning of a 'critical' situation with behavioral‑health grants and a narrow window to draw federal funds, saying 'we can’t continue to miss federal draws' and citing potential taxpayer exposure of 'hundreds of thousands or even millions.' DHS told Alpha News it is not aware of any missed federal draws, attributing late-year concerns to grantee underspending and noting invoices submitted after award expiration could not be paid with federal dollars.

Local Government Health

Court blocks federal immigrant CDL restrictions

Nov 14 Breaking TC 1

The D.C. Circuit on Thursday stayed U.S. DOT’s new rule that would have limited commercial driver’s licenses for noncitizens to holders of H‑2A, H‑2B or E‑2 visas, finding the agency skipped proper procedure and failed to justify safety benefits. The rule—spurred by several fatal crashes—would have required immigration‑status checks and cut eligibility to roughly 10,000 of 200,000 noncitizen CDL holders; California this week revoked 17,000 CDLs amid audits tied to the issue. The stay halts enforcement nationwide, preserving current licensing standards while litigation proceeds.

Legal Transit & Infrastructure

I-494 weekend closure from Hwy 77 to Hwy 100

Nov 14 Breaking TC 1

MnDOT will close westbound I-494 between Highway 77 (Cedar Ave.) and Highway 100 from 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, through the weekend for winter prep work; eastbound I-494 will also close Saturday night for utility work, with detours via Hwy 77, Hwy 62 and Hwy 100. The agency says lanes will reopen by Monday morning weather permitting, and the I-494 ramps at Nicollet Ave. and 12th Ave. will be permanently closed by the end of the year for bridge construction.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Mounds View High teacher Ted Bennett resigns; judge sets $75K bail in sex‑crimes case

Nov 14 Breaking TC 6

Ted Bennett, a 58-year-old longtime English teacher at Mounds View High School, resigned this week after being arrested and charged with third- and fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a minor student; the school board accepted his resignation. Authorities allege he provided the student alcohol and Adderall, exchanged explicit messages, and had sexual contact on multiple occasions — including in vehicles and a school theater storage area — and he was arrested at his home, held in Ramsey County Jail with bail set at $75,000 and ordered to stay away from the victim; investigators say there may be additional victims and have opened a tip line.

Public Safety Education Legal

Marine on St. Croix getting first cell tower

Nov 13 Breaking TC 1

Marine on St. Croix is installing a 180‑foot cellular tower on city‑owned land near its compost site and septic drainfield, officials said November 13, 2025. AT&T will be the core tenant, other carriers may co‑locate, and the city will receive $22,000 per year for the land lease; the site lies outside the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway boundary and is intended to improve public safety communications on the river and in town.

Utilities Public Safety

Judge weighs new-trial motion on Wiggins’ sentencing day in Monique Baugh case

Nov 13 Dev TC 5

A Hennepin County jury on Nov. 3, 2025 found Lyndon Akeem Wiggins guilty on four counts, including aiding and abetting first‑degree premeditated murder, with sentencing set for Nov. 13 after a jury of six women and six men returned the verdict following about six hours of deliberation. On the day of sentencing Wiggins’ attorney filed a 13‑page motion seeking a third retrial, alleging cumulative due‑process violations — including witness warnings, refusal to revisit CSLI suppression, emotional outbursts by the victim’s mother, and an unresolved recusal motion — which Judge Kappelhoff took under advisement amid sharp criticism from prosecutors and the victim’s family.

Legal Public Safety

Macalester senior dies after off‑campus fall

Nov 13 Breaking TC 1

Macalester College senior Binta Maina, 21, died after accidentally falling down a flight of stairs at an off‑campus residence in St. Paul’s Snelling‑Hamline neighborhood late Sunday, according to St. Paul police. Officers responded just before 11:30 p.m. to the 1500 block of Hague Ave.; medics transported Maina to a hospital, and the college said the community is “heartbroken” by the loss.

Public Safety Education

MLS shifts to July–May season; Apple changes access

Nov 13 Breaking TC 1

MLS owners voted Nov. 13 to move to a late‑summer‑to‑spring calendar starting in 2027, aligning with international leagues and adding a long winter break—changes that will affect Minnesota United’s home schedule at Allianz Field. Separately, Apple said all MLS matches will be available to Apple TV subscribers without the separate Season Pass starting in 2026, changing how Twin Cities fans access broadcasts.

Business & Economy Technology

Woodbury son charged in father's neglect death

Nov 13 Breaking TC 1

Washington County has charged Michael Cornelius Dailey, 51, of Woodbury with criminal neglect after charging documents allege he mismanaged the care of his 80-year-old father, a vulnerable adult, who died April 28, 2025 following hypoglycemia from a severe insulin overdose. The complaint cites multiple recent hospitalizations tied to uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes, malnutrition concerns, a recommended facility placement Dailey allegedly refused, and an October 2024 incident where home health services were rejected.

Legal Public Safety

Ryan Winkler launches bid for HD 43B

Nov 13 Breaking TC 1

Former MN House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler announced he is running for House District 43B, which covers Golden Valley, Robbinsdale and a small part of Plymouth. The open seat follows DFL Rep. Mike Freiberg’s run for the Minnesota Senate; Winkler joins state tax auditor and former Robbinsdale school board member Sam Sant in the DFL field ahead of the August primary.

Elections Local Government

IRS raises 401(k), IRA limits for 2026

Nov 13 Breaking TC 1

The IRS announced on Nov. 13, 2025, that the maximum employee contribution to 401(k), 403(b) and most 457 plans will rise to $24,500 in 2026, with the age‑50 catch‑up increasing to $8,000. The agency also set the 2026 IRA limit at $7,500 and the IRA catch‑up at $1,100, while keeping the special age 60–63 catch‑up at $11,250. The nationwide changes directly affect Twin Cities workers and retirees saving in tax‑advantaged plans.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

AT&T $177M breach settlement sets Dec. 18 deadline

Nov 13 Breaking TC 1

AT&T agreed to a $177 million settlement over two data breaches disclosed in 2024, and impacted customers — including those in the Twin Cities — have until Dec. 18, 2025 to file claims. The deal, reached in U.S. District Court in Texas, covers a dark‑web leak of data from 2019 or earlier affecting about 7.6 million current and 65.4 million former account holders, and a separate breach of 2022 call/text records; payments of up to $5,000 or $2,500 are available depending on documented losses, with final court approval set for Jan. 15, 2026.

Legal Technology

Metro Transit to increase winter officer presence

Nov 13 Breaking TC 2

Metro Transit will boost uniformed security across nearly every light‑rail route this winter, deploying agency police, community service officers, transit ambassadors and contract security beginning this weekend. Officials say serious crime has fallen but minor offenses such as drug use and vandalism have remained steady, driving rider safety concerns.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Hennepin, metro cities boost food aid amid SNAP delays

Nov 13 Dev TC 2

Hennepin County and other Twin Cities cities and counties have stepped in to fund emergency food aid after SNAP payments were delayed during the federal shutdown. With the shutdown over, states are transitioning from partial or paused SNAP payments to full November benefits — USDA guidance says most states can access funds within 24 hours but beneficiaries may see staggered deposits spread over several days up to about a week, so local aid remains important in the short term.

Local Government Health Government/Regulatory

St. Paul passes contingent assault‑weapons ban; gun‑rights group files lawsuit

Nov 13 Breaking TC 7

St. Paul’s City Council unanimously approved a contingent ordinance (7–0) that would ban public possession of assault‑style firearms, magazines holding more than 20 rounds and binary triggers, require serial numbers to curb ghost guns, and bar guns in most city‑owned spaces — but the law is written to take effect only if state firearm preemption is repealed, amended or judicially invalidated. The Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus immediately sued in Ramsey County, calling the measure unlawful, while the city attorney says St. Paul is prepared to defend the contingent approach amid the broader push by about 17 Minnesota cities and significant public comment (including over 700 “vote no” emails).

Public Safety Legal Local Government

St. Paul offers $2,500 eviction-prevention aid

Nov 13 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul opened applications for its Emergency Rental Assistance and Eviction Prevention Program, offering one-time grants up to $2,500 to low‑income tenants facing eviction, effective Nov. 13, 2025. Funded with $1 million in the 2025 city budget, the program requires landlords to agree not to evict aided tenants and limits eligibility to households at or below 80% AMI with proof of a pending eviction; the City Council is exploring funding in 2026.

Housing Local Government

Xcel proposes $430M distributed battery network

Nov 13 TC 1

Xcel Energy filed with the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission to recover costs for a new distributed battery program, Capacity*Connect, that would deploy dozens of 1–3 MW batteries at commercial sites statewide and scale to 50–200 MW by 2028, forming a utility‑controlled virtual power plant. Xcel says the plan will bolster reliability and help meet the 2040 carbon‑free mandate while shifting purchases to lower‑cost periods, but watchdogs question the value for ratepayers and note Xcel’s Colorado virtual power plant is far cheaper per megawatt and includes broader customer‑side resources.

Utilities Energy

Judge grants TRO barring encampments on Sabri Minneapolis properties

Nov 13 Dev TC 8

A Hennepin County judge on Tuesday granted a temporary restraining order barring homeless encampments on any Minneapolis properties owned by Hamoudi Sabri after negotiations between Sabri and the city broke down and following a Sept. 16 mass shooting near E. Lake St. that injured seven people. Mayor Jacob Frey said the TRO lets the city close encampments once services and shelter are offered; city crews cleared the site, estimate the cleanup cost about $50,000 and may seek reimbursement, and police have increased patrols and placed fencing around the area. Sabri says he plans to convert the cleared lot into a "hygiene and outreach hub," has not obtained required permits, faces possible citations if he violates the order, and is weighing further legal action while criticizing the city's homelessness response.

Housing Public Safety Legal

Hospitals join suit alleging insurer price fixing

Nov 13 Breaking TC 1

A coalition of hospitals and health systems has joined or expanded a federal lawsuit alleging a cartel-like scheme to depress out‑of‑network reimbursements, describing a third‑party repricing firm as a 'mafia enforcer' working for major insurers including Minnetonka‑based UnitedHealth Group. The case accuses the parties of antitrust violations that harmed providers and patients by fixing prices below competitive levels; Twin Cities impact stems from UHG’s role and potential effects on local health systems and consumers.

Legal Health Business & Economy

Walz orders veteran food pantry network

Nov 13 Breaking TC 1

Gov. Tim Walz issued a Veterans Day executive order directing the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs to create a statewide Veteran Food Pantry Network and authorizing the agency to use existing resources, partner with nonprofits and private entities, and accept donations. The move aims to reduce food insecurity among Minnesota’s 296,000 veterans — including many in the Twin Cities — amid data showing 13% of veterans in VA care are food insecure and roughly 12,000 Minnesota veterans use SNAP.

Local Government Health

Parents plan suit in Stillwater AI child-porn case

Nov 13 Breaking TC 2

Parents are threatening to sue the Stillwater School District after former employee William Haslach was accused of producing AI child pornography, and the district now acknowledges some victims are Stillwater students. Facing scrutiny, the district has implemented new rules—no personal cell phones around students, photos only pre‑approved and taken on district devices, and mandatory sexual‑exploitation training—while attorney Imran Ali has launched a civil investigation citing outdated policies, training gaps and poor communication.

Education Public Safety Legal

Stillwater schools weigh boundary changes

Nov 13 Dev TC 1

Stillwater Area Public Schools outlined three attendance-boundary scenarios to prepare for new Lake Elmo and Bayport elementary schools opening next fall, with scenarios affecting either 135 or 39 students. An open house is set for 6 p.m. Thursday at Oak-Land Middle School, a School Board study session is Dec. 2, and a final decision is expected Dec. 16; the district also listed the current Lake Elmo Elementary for $5 million and plans to consolidate central services into the current Andersen Elementary building in Bayport.

Education Local Government

Fridley teen sentenced to life with parole eligibility in 15 years for ex’s murder

Nov 12 Dev TC 2

A jury convicted 19-year-old Fenan Abdurezak Uso of Fridley of fatally shooting his ex-girlfriend Jayden Kline, and Judge Jenny Walker Jasper imposed a mandatory life sentence with parole eligibility after 15 years under a 2023 law for juveniles certified as adults. Prosecutors say Uso bought a stolen handgun the night before and planned the Dec. 21, 2023 shooting outside Kline’s Fridley home (captured in neighbor doorbell video showing a gold minivan); Kline died at North Memorial Hospital, Uso was initially charged by juvenile petition and later indicted for first-degree murder in July 2024, and Kline’s mother and brothers delivered victim impact statements at sentencing.

Legal Public Safety

CBP building $15.6M facility at Holman Field

Nov 12 Breaking TC 1

The Metropolitan Airports Commission says a 4,800‑sq‑ft U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility at St. Paul’s Holman Field received a city building permit on Nov. 4, replacing a small in‑building CBP site to better process international charter passengers and cargo. The project, funded with federal/state grants and General Airport Revenue bonds, will handle 100–150 international flights per year and feature LEED Gold design with geothermal, solar, and a green roof.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

U.S. Mint strikes final penny Wednesday

Nov 12 Breaking TC 2

The U.S. Mint in Philadelphia will press the final penny Wednesday, and U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach said those last coins will be auctioned. Each penny costs roughly four cents to make, and the Treasury estimates ending production will save about $56 million a year in materials, even as tens of billions of pennies remain in circulation and banks and retailers may round cash transactions to the nearest five cents.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

Washington County plans Ideal Avenue upgrades

Nov 12 Breaking TC 1

Washington County announced an Ideal Avenue (County Road 13) improvement project between Stillwater Blvd and 34th St N on the Oakdale–Lake Elmo border, adding wider shoulders, turn lanes, and better pedestrian/bike facilities, drainage, and capacity. An open house is set for 4–6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, at the Oakdale Discovery Center, with online feedback accepted Nov. 19–Dec. 10; the $7.8 million project is slated to start in spring 2029 and will be funded by the county’s transportation sales tax, the Minnesota Transportation Advancement Account, and the cities of Lake Elmo and Oakdale.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Prosecutors turn over 130,000 pages in Boelter case; next hearing Feb. 12

Nov 12 Dev TC 3

Prosecutors have provided substantially all discovery in the case against Vance Boelter — more than 130,000 PDF pages as part of roughly 9 terabytes of material that the defense says includes about 800–825 hours of audio/video, roughly 2,000 photos and thousands of documents, though some lab reports remain pending. Magistrate Judge Dulce Foster set the next status conference for Feb. 12 and requested updates on the DOJ’s undecided death‑penalty decision (which federal prosecutor Harry Jacobs said rests with AG Pam Bondi), while defense counsel Manny Atwal said downloading and reviewing the evidence — slowed by a federal shutdown and some 110 hours of work already — could push trial scheduling out at least six months.

Legal Public Safety

Police unions condemn $10K bail in deputy assault

Nov 12 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota’s two largest police organizations criticized a judge’s decision to allow a $10,000 conditional bail for Robert J. Kozicky, 41, charged with first-degree burglary, third-degree assault, and fourth-degree assault of a peace officer after a Nov. 6 incident in Ham Lake where a deputy was violently attacked. Prosecutors sought $150,000 unconditional or $75,000 conditional bail, but Judge Jennifer Peterson set $75,000 unconditional or $10,000 with conditions; Kozicky was arrested Nov. 7 and released Nov. 9, and unions MPPOA and LELS are calling for a review citing the deputy’s concussion and head laceration.

Public Safety Legal

Visa, Mastercard propose card-acceptance changes

Nov 12 Breaking TC 1

Visa and Mastercard proposed a national class‑action settlement that would let merchants refuse higher‑tier rewards cards or add surcharges to cover their higher fees, a shift from the networks’ long‑standing “honor all cards” rule. The deal also includes a temporary 10‑basis‑point cut to swipe fees for five years and sets standard transactions at 1.25% for eight years; major retail groups oppose the proposal, which still requires court approval, meaning Twin Cities shoppers with premium rewards cards could eventually see declines or surcharges at checkout if it’s finalized.

Business & Economy Legal

Centerspace reviews options, sells Minneapolis portfolio for $76M

Nov 12 Breaking TC 1

Minot-based apartment REIT Centerspace said Wednesday its board has begun a review of strategic alternatives that could include a sale or merger, and separately announced it sold its Minneapolis-area portfolio for $76 million, including properties in Minneapolis and New Hope. The moves signal a potential change in ownership and strategy affecting Twin Cities multifamily real estate.

Business & Economy Housing

MSP airport retail unit spins off, new CEO

Nov 12 Breaking TC 1

The Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport retail operations of St. Paul-based Airport Retail Group are being split into a standalone business, with investor Megan Bender buying a stake and becoming CEO. The new entity plans to nearly double sales, including by opening a new travel convenience store in MSP’s Terminal 2.

Business & Economy Transit & Infrastructure

Judge weighs Planned Parenthood Medicaid cutoff

Nov 12 Dev TC 1

A federal judge will hear arguments Wednesday on whether a July federal law ending Medicaid reimbursements to providers that both offer abortions and receive over $800,000 in Medicaid funds should remain in effect during ongoing lawsuits. Planned Parenthood says an appeals court allowed the law to take effect in September, costing the organization $45 million that month as clinics covered Medicaid care out of pocket, and warns of closures and reduced access; seven states have temporarily backfilled some funding, but Minnesota is not among them. The case was brought by Planned Parenthood and affiliates in Massachusetts and Utah and a Maine provider against HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Health Legal

Sonder abruptly closes Twin Cities locations

Nov 12 Dev TC 1

Sonder, which operated extended‑stay hotels in downtown St. Paul and multiple Minneapolis sites, shut down operations Monday night after Marriott Bonvoy said its licensing agreement with Sonder was terminated for default. A sign at The Fitz (77 Ninth St. E., St. Paul) states operations ceased Nov. 10, 2025; Marriott directed customers to seek refunds through their credit‑card issuers and rebook within its portfolio as reports indicate Sonder plans a Chapter 7 filing.

Business & Economy

St. Paul keeps staff-led review for reparations study

Nov 12 Dev TC 1

The St. Paul City Council voted 6–1 on Nov. 5 to stick with a staff‑led procurement process for a reparations 'harm study' budgeted up to $250,000, rejecting a proposal from Council Member Anika Bowie to restart the evaluation with a community‑driven review panel. The RFP, extended in September and closed Oct. 3, drew three research firms; a preferred vendor has been identified but not yet finalized, and the contract will come back to the council for approval amid objections from some Black elders and split views among the council’s two Black members.

Local Government Business & Economy

IACP to review 43-hour response to June 14 lawmaker shootings; $429.5K cost

Nov 12 Dev TC 3

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Brooklyn Park, Champlin and New Hope police departments and Hennepin County have hired the International Association of Chiefs of Police to conduct an independent after-action review of the 43-hour law enforcement response to the June 14 lawmaker shootings — from the first 911 call just after 2:30 a.m. to the arrest of Vance Boelter — a manhunt DPS calls the largest in state history. The six-month review, announced in a DPS Veterans Day release, will cost $429,500 (the state covering $210,000 and Hennepin County $165,000), will be released publicly, and has drawn support and questions from officials including Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher about early communication to legislators.

Legal Local Government Public Safety

Minneapolis CM Jamal Osman carjacked amid spree; two teens arrested, VW recovered

Nov 11 Breaking TC 2

Minneapolis City Council Member Jamal Osman was carjacked shortly before 8 p.m. at Lake St. & Portland Ave.; MPD says he was threatened with mace and his Volkswagen Atlas was stolen as part of a same-day spree that began with a 2 p.m. Subaru Outback theft and included an attempted carjacking and another vehicle theft earlier in the evening. Officers later spotted the stolen vehicles near Lake & Pillsbury, one car hit a hydrant during a pursuit, and two teens (15 and 16) were arrested after fleeing on foot and Osman's VW was recovered near Lyndale Place; police say one arrested teen has a prior history, and separately two adults were arrested in an unrelated early-morning carjacking near Penn Ave. N. and 26th Ave. N.

Local Government Public Safety

Five charged in Twin Cities odometer fraud

Nov 11 Breaking TC 1

Hennepin County prosecutors charged five relatives — Ilie Tudor, 27; Ionut Todur, 29; Florin Tudor, 31; Vasile Tudor, 26; and David Tudor, 22 — with odometer tampering, theft by swindle and concealing criminal proceeds after a scheme to buy vehicles cheaply, roll back miles and resell them on Facebook Marketplace. Investigators recovered a Toyota Tundra in north Minneapolis showing more than 110,000 fewer miles than previously recorded and say all five suspects have left Minnesota, with warrants issued and at least two believed to have fled the country.

Legal Public Safety

Minneapolis weighs downtown public restroom expansion

Nov 11 Dev TC 1

Minneapolis’ Public Health and Safety Committee is reviewing a 62-page city report on the shortage of public restrooms downtown and options to increase access, including installing standalone “Portland Loo” units or compelling businesses to open facilities. The analysis cites 27 city 311 complaints about human feces and 26 about public urination from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025, and notes costs of $152,000–$185,000 per unit (or ~$24,000/year to rent) as the Council considers next steps.

Local Government Public Health

FDA drops boxed warnings on menopause hormones

Nov 11 Breaking TC 2

The FDA removed the long-standing boxed warning from hormone-based menopause drugs, saying updated evidence shows benefits for women. Officials — including HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who called the move “challenging outdated thinking” — said the change was made without convening a formal advisory committee to avoid a “bureaucratic” and costly process, and Makary explained why an advisory panel was not used.

Health Government/Regulatory

NOAA issues rare G4 aurora watch

Nov 11 Breaking TC 1

NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center issued geomagnetic storm watches for Nov. 11–13, including a rare G4 ('severe') watch on Wednesday that could make the Northern Lights visible across Minnesota, including the Twin Cities’ darker outskirts. The agency says a G2 watch is in effect Nov. 11 and a G3 watch Nov. 13, with visibility potentially extending as far south as Alabama depending on timing, storm strength, and cloud cover.

Weather Environment

Two hospitalized after New Hope house fire

Nov 11 Breaking TC 1

West Metro Fire and New Hope police responded to a house fire around 6:12 a.m. Tuesday on the 8100 block of 38 ½ Avenue North, removing two occupants who were transported to North Memorial Hospital and Hennepin Healthcare. Their conditions are unknown; the cause is under investigation by West Metro Fire and the Minnesota State Fire Marshal.

Public Safety

IRS cancels Direct File for 2026 season

Nov 11 Breaking TC 2

The IRS has canceled its Direct File free online tax-filing system for the 2026 season and, per an IRS email from Cynthia Noe, there is no relaunch date set; the program had been piloted in 12 states and was slated to expand to 12 more before the cancellation. Treasury Secretary/IRS Commissioner Scott Bessent said the private sector can do a better job and that Direct File “wasn't used very much.” The 2026 filing season will still include higher standard deductions under OBBBA: $16,100 for single filers and $32,200 for married filing jointly, with brackets adjusted for inflation.

Government & Policy Government/Regulatory Business & Economy

Judge denies stay on binary trigger ban ruling

Nov 11 Dev TC 1

Ramsey County District Court Judge Leonardo Castro on Nov. 5 denied the State of Minnesota’s request to stay his Aug. 18 ruling that struck down the 2024 omnibus bill’s "binary trigger" ban under the state constitution’s Single Subject Clause. The decision leaves the ban unenforceable and, in the order, the judge wrote that the public interest favors not enforcing unconstitutional laws and cited due-process concerns with arresting people under an invalid statute.

Legal Local Government

Rondo Library to close Dec. 15 for renovations

Nov 11 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul’s Rondo Community Library at University Avenue and Dale Street will close Dec. 15 for up to a year for interior and public-safety renovations funded up to $793,000 from state public safety aid, with services relocated to the Hallie Q. Brown Community Center (270 N. Kent St.) beginning Jan. 3. The temporary site will mirror Rondo’s seven‑day hours and offer holds, returns, collections, computers, WiFi, notary/printing, rooms, and all existing programs; Rondo item due dates are extended to Jan. 31.

Local Government Education

Appeals court orders full SNAP funding; Supreme Court to decide whether 65% cap remains

Nov 11 Dev TC 71

After the federal shutdown prompted USDA to pause SNAP disbursements and initially push a roughly 65% partial‑payment plan, a coalition of states sued and district judges in Rhode Island and Massachusetts ordered USDA to use contingency and other funds to provide full November benefits. The 1st Circuit upheld the lower‑court order requiring full funding (after a brief Supreme Court stay), leaving some states that already issued full payments in limbo as the Supreme Court prepares to decide whether the administration may enforce the 65% cap.

Legal Government/Regulatory Politics

AG’s conviction review of 2002 Dakota murder nears

Nov 11 TC 1

Minnesota AG Keith Ellison’s Conviction Review Unit says its report on Philip Vance’s 2002 South St. Paul murder conviction is in final review after four years of investigation, even as Vance’s separate court bid based on witness recantations remains paused pending the CRU outcome. The case highlights growing scrutiny of the three‑person unit’s pace—five completed reviews since 2021—with the defense warning delays risk witness availability and prosecutors notified of an anticipated report as far back as February.

Legal Local Government

Swing‑district Sen. Seeberger backs assault‑weapon ban

Nov 11 TC 2

Swing‑district Sen. Seeberger told a Stillwater town hall with Gov. Tim Walz that “everything’s on the table” and she will vote yes on measures that save lives, signaling support for an assault‑weapons ban while noting she is a gun owner and unsure any Republicans would back such a ban. Her stance comes as her district stretches from Grant to Hastings amid razor‑thin legislative margins (an evenly divided House and a one‑seat DFL Senate majority) and with House Republicans pushing a counterplan focused on school security, school resource officers and more mental‑health treatment beds.

Local Government Public Safety

Veterans Day closures and services in Twin Cities

Nov 10 Breaking TC 1

For Tuesday, Nov. 11, most government offices and post offices are closed across Minneapolis–Saint Paul, while many grocery stores and malls remain open. Minneapolis and St. Paul will not enforce parking meters (UMN meters are enforced), Metro Transit buses and Blue/Green lines run regular schedules and offer free rides to veterans and active‑duty military with ID, most libraries and many schools are closed, and select museums have varied hours.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Two men wounded in separate St. Paul shootings

Nov 10 Breaking TC 2

Two men were wounded in separate shootings in St. Paul about 15 minutes apart that police say are believed to be unrelated. In the Payne-Phalen incident, a 43-year-old man was shot during an apparent carjacking, is recovering, could not describe his attacker, and investigators who have made no arrests are asking the public for tips (Sgt. Nichole Sipes, 651-266-5760).

Public Safety

Demuth names Ryan Wilson running mate in 2026 governor bid

Nov 10 Breaking TC 8

Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth named former state auditor candidate Ryan Wilson as her running mate in her 2026 gubernatorial bid; Wilson is an attorney, founder and former CEO of a clinical‑trials company who narrowly lost the 2022 auditor race. The Demuth‑Wilson ticket — the first prominent GOP campaign this cycle to announce a lieutenant governor pick — will begin a statewide tour and frames its priorities around fighting government fraud, education and public safety amid a GOP primary that includes Scott Jensen, Kristin Robbins and Kendall Qualls.

Elections Local Government

Graco plans Dayton headquarters, leaving NE Minneapolis

Nov 10 Breaking TC 1

Graco said Nov. 10 it plans to build a new headquarters in Dayton, Minnesota, and relocate from its current Northeast Minneapolis riverfront campus. The move would shift the company’s corporate base within the Twin Cities and could open Graco’s high‑profile riverfront site to future redevelopment; project details and approvals will follow local review.

Business & Economy Housing

Hennepin County revises North Arm landing plan

Nov 10 TC 1

Hennepin County dropped a proposed second ‘vertical’ access at Lake Minnetonka’s North Arm public landing in Orono after resident and city pushback, revising its redesign to add a picnic area instead. The county still plans safety and sustainability upgrades — including ramp realignment, parking changes, stormwater controls, shoreline pods for anglers/paddlers, lighting and solar features — and Commissioner Heather Edelson said the controversy will spur broader coordination among 14 lakeshore cities, the county, LMCD and the DNR on commercial use of public landings.

Local Government Transit & Infrastructure Environment

I-394 E‑ZPass lanes reopen after July closure

Nov 10 Dev TC 1

MnDOT reopened the reversible E‑ZPass lanes on I‑394 between downtown Minneapolis and Golden Valley on Sunday after months of bridge and pavement work, but warns overnight closures will continue through December and major traffic shifts resume in spring. Starting in February, all westbound traffic will be routed into the E‑ZPass lanes during construction, then eastbound traffic will follow as crews rehab concrete, repair bridges and ramps to Hwy. 55/I‑94, and replace the Penn Avenue bridge deck.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Minneapolis teachers deal adds 2% raise this year; class-size and special-ed caseload limits set; ratification Thu–Fri

Nov 10 Dev TC 8

Minneapolis Public Schools and the Minneapolis Federation of Educators reached a tentative agreement late Saturday covering three contracts for more than 4,300 employees that includes a 2% pay increase this year and enforceable smaller class sizes and special-education caseload limits. The deal, which averts a planned Nov. 11 strike, goes to union ratification votes Thursday–Friday and then the School Board for approval amid district warnings of a roughly $75 million shortfall this year and further projected deficits.

Business & Economy Education

Minneapolis vehicle break‑in spree: 124 cases in mid‑Oct; ~20 more in Lowry Hill on Nov. 9

Nov 10 Dev TC 2

Minneapolis police say a mid‑October spree damaged 124 vehicles over five days, and the rash continued with about 20 vehicles having windows smashed before dawn on Nov. 9 in Lowry Hill near Fremont Ave. S. and W. Franklin Ave. MPD noted the October surge followed a two‑month lull, cited an Aug. 19 arrest of three teens in north Minneapolis, and urged people to report incidents (911/311/online/in‑person) and to use well‑lit parking, remove or hide valuables, and never leave keys in vehicles.

Public Safety

Bernie Sanders backs Peggy Flanagan for Senate

Nov 10 Breaking TC 2

Sen. Bernie Sanders endorsed Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan for the U.S. Senate, praising her background and tying his support to her backing of Medicare for All; Flanagan said, "Folks deserve to afford the lives they want to live... not just the fights we think we can win." Flanagan’s growing coalition includes Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison and former Sen. Al Franken, while Democratic rival Rep. Angie Craig is backed by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, more than a dozen labor unions and Dave Wellstone; GOP contenders include Royce White and retired Navy SEAL Adam Schwarze.

Local Government Elections

Ex-Hennepin sheriff’s captain charged with stealing lab generator for ice fishing

Nov 10 Breaking TC 2

A former Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office captain, Labatt, has been charged with felony theft after a complaint says he took a department-owned generator from the HCSO forensic lab, used it while ice fishing Feb. 1–28 and left it on the lake. The complaint and records say lab staff sent multiple unanswered emails about the missing unit, Labatt did not offer to replace it until after a new generator ($1,209), a gas can and two gallons of gas ($26.97) and $80 for AirTags were purchased, and that Labatt — who joined HCSO in 1989 and became forensic lab director in January 2021 — was separated from employment on April 30, 2025; the HCSO crime lab serves 35 local agencies plus state and federal partners.

Legal Public Safety

Envoy Medical hearing implant gets FDA fast track

Nov 10 Breaking TC 1

White Bear Lake–based Envoy Medical says the latest version of its fully implanted Acclaim hearing device has received FDA breakthrough device designation, placing it on a fast track and expanding clinical trials from 10 to 46 patients. The company, which earlier secured 2010 FDA approval for its Esteem implant, is targeting 2027 approval for the new system after roughly $250 million in cumulative investment.

Health Technology

Ramsey County approves $450K for food shelves; 11 recipients named, $70K reserved for infant formula

Nov 10 Breaking TC 3

Ramsey County approved $450,000 in emergency funds for 11 food shelf providers — Keystone Community Services; Neighborhood House; Open Cupboard; Sanneh Foundation; Merrick Community Services; White Bear Area Food Shelf; Corner Shelf; CLUES; Hallie Q. Brown Community Center; Interfaith Action (Department of Indian Work); and Vineyard Community Services — and reserved $70,000 specifically to buy infant formula if WIC benefits are disrupted. The emergency allocation, prompted by SNAP and MFIP stoppages that affect roughly 35,500 SNAP households (about 68,500 people) and 3,500 MFIP households (about 9,800 people) in Ramsey County, mirrors similar funding moves by nearby counties and cities.

Health Local Government

State awards $69M from MN Forward Fund, including $50M for Rosemount 'North Wind,' $5M for UST and $4M for Hennepin Tech

Nov 09 Breaking TC 4

The state’s Minnesota Forward Fund awarded $69 million across four projects — including a $50 million forgivable loan for North Wind’s $1 billion, 250,000‑sq.‑ft. Minnesota Aerospace Complex at the UMore site in Rosemount, $10 million for Niron Magnetics in Sartell, $5 million for the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul and $4 million for Hennepin Technical College (Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie). The Rosemount project, which UMN sold 60 acres for and will partner on, will house three hypersonic wind tunnels, is backed by an additional $99 million U.S. Army contract and $85 million in company investment, targets completion in 2030–31, and has drawn some campus protests over military ties.

Technology Business & Economy Local Government

Judges in Minnesota rebuff ICE bond denials

Nov 09 TC 1

Federal judges in Minnesota and nationwide are rejecting ICE’s bid to hold immigrants without bond hearings under a Trump‑era DHS policy expanding detention, with 177 recent rulings favoring immigrants versus nine for the government as of Oct. 31. In Minneapolis, a federal judge ordered a bond hearing Oct. 27 for Jose Andres Robles—detained a month at Freeborn County Jail without a hearing—after which his family posted $10,000 to secure his release; more than 1,000 immigrants have been detained in Minnesota since January.

Legal Local Government

Shepard Road lights still dark after thefts

Nov 09 TC 1

St. Paul officials say repeated copper wire thefts have kept roughly 250 streetlights dark along a four‑mile stretch of Shepard/Warner Road from Lowertown to Otto Avenue, despite citywide progress restoring lights. Public Works estimates it will cost $750,000 or more to fully restore the corridor; the city spent $2 million in 2024 replacing stolen wiring and installing high‑access poles, and 2025 service calls about dark lights are down about 30% year‑over‑year. Council President Rebecca Noecker is urging residents to press City Hall for dedicated funding, citing public‑safety concerns and recent related vandalism along the corridor.

Transit & Infrastructure Public Safety Local Government

Progressives keep 7–6 edge on Minneapolis council; veto overrides no longer possible

Nov 09 Dev TC 6

Progressive-aligned candidates won seven of 13 Minneapolis City Council seats, preserving a narrow majority but losing a veto‑proof supermajority after a moderate pickup in Ward 7; all races are now decided, including Ward 5 where Tinitha “Pearll” Warren prevailed in a ranked‑choice second round. Mayor Jacob Frey and council leaders say the result will require more negotiation on issues like public safety and the budget, and the new council will be sworn in January for a four‑year term.

Local Government Elections

M Health Fairview, UHC talks risk 125K patients

Nov 09 Dev TC 1

M Health Fairview warns it could go out-of-network for UnitedHealthcare and UMR members on Jan. 1, 2026 if no new commercial contract is reached, potentially affecting about 125,000 patients in the Twin Cities. Fairview says UHC’s demands would force service cuts and reduced access, while UnitedHealthcare says Fairview is seeking a more than 23% rate increase that would add roughly $121 million in employer costs; the current five‑year contract expires this year.

Health Business & Economy

Columbia Heights home invasion injures man

Nov 09 Breaking TC 1

Columbia Heights Police and the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office say two men followed a resident into his home on the 1400 block of 47th Avenue NE around 10:20 p.m. Friday and tried to rob him, leading to a struggle that left the victim injured. He was taken to a hospital in stable condition; other occupants were unharmed. The suspects fled and remain at large as the investigation continues.

Public Safety Legal

Man shot after dispute in downtown Minneapolis alley

Nov 08 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis police say a man was shot just before 9:15 p.m. Nov. 8 in an alley behind a nightclub on the 300 block of 1st Avenue North after he asked a group of unhoused individuals to leave. The victim was hospitalized and is expected to survive; the group fled and no arrests have been announced as the investigation continues.

Public Safety

United Way reports 150% surge in food requests; $105K in grants distributed

Nov 08 Dev TC 2

United Way says its 211 helpline has seen a 150% increase in food-related requests since mid-October as Minnesota food shelves feel pressure from the federal shutdown, and the organization has distributed approximately $105,000 in emergency grants to local nonprofits, including funding Route 1 produce pop-up events. 211 is available 24/7 for food access and other services, and United Way is inviting donations and volunteers.

Business & Economy Local Government Health

Minnesota State Grant faces $102M shortfall

Nov 08 Dev TC 1

Minnesota’s largest college financial-aid program is projecting a $102 million deficit in the current biennium, and officials say awards may need to be reduced again in coming semesters. The Office of Higher Education cites higher enrollment (+4,000 students), more recipients (+2,200), and FAFSA-driven need and Pell changes as key drivers, following July fixes that boosted funding by $44.5M but cut average awards by $475 after addressing a prior $239M shortfall. Lawmakers signaled hearings are likely, with Rep. Marion Rarick warning rationing may be unavoidable while OHE advises families not to be overly worried.

Education Local Government

Man found shot dead in Columbia Heights car

Nov 08 Breaking TC 1

Anoka County authorities are investigating a homicide after a man was found with apparent gunshot wounds inside a vehicle around 6:31 a.m. Friday on the 500 block of 38th Avenue NE in Columbia Heights. No arrests have been made; anyone with information is asked to call Anoka County’s non‑emergency line at 763-427-1212.

Public Safety Legal

Minnesota to correct SNAP payout overcount

Nov 08 Dev TC 1

The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth and Families said Friday it mistakenly included and double‑counted Pandemic EBT in federal FNS‑46 reports, inflating reported SNAP payouts from about $725 million in 2020 to roughly $1.9 billion in 2021. The agency said the reporting errors did not reflect improper payments and it will submit corrected figures to USDA after the federal shutdown ends; the correct totals are not yet known.

Local Government Business & Economy

Marshals arrest Minnesotan in deadly Dallas RV arson

Nov 08 Breaking TC 1

U.S. Marshals arrested Lamont Curtis Richardson, 30, of St. Cloud, on I-94 near Sauk Centre Friday on a Texas arson charge tied to an Oct. 19 Dallas RV fire that killed 68-year-old Leslie Denise McBride. Apple Valley police executed search warrants at a Fjord Avenue address, seizing documents bearing Richardson’s name and seeking a woman’s DNA and cellphone data after investigators traced a Hertz rental from MSP and GPS logs to Texas and back. Surveillance captured a hooded, masked man igniting the RV before fleeing; motive has not been disclosed.

Public Safety Legal

St. Paul launches SNAP relief food drive

Nov 08 Breaking TC 3

St. Paul launched a food drive for SNAP recipients and has collected more than 10,000 pounds to date. The city lists drop-off locations and partner agencies — Keystone, Merrick, Feeding Frogtown, Hallie Q. Brown, with Neighborhood House beginning pickups next week — and says donations include hygiene supplies, culturally familiar staples, pet food and recipe kits, with the Office of Financial Empowerment noting a strong community response.

Local Government Health

Nonprofit buys condemned St. Paul parking ramp

Nov 07 Breaking TC 1

The St. Paul Downtown Development Corporation purchased the condemned Capital City Plaza parking ramp at 50 Fourth St. from Madison Equities and will begin work to address safety violations, aiming to reopen it by late 2026. The privately funded deal, near the Green Line’s Central Station, keeps the ramp and the adjacent Alliance Bank Center closed for now while skyway connections to Osborn370 and Treasure Island Center remain open.

Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

Walz appoints Robin Hutcheson Met Council chair

Nov 07 Breaking TC 2

Gov. Tim Walz appointed transit specialist Robin Hutcheson as chair of the Metropolitan Council, with her term beginning Dec. 1, 2025 and running through Jan. 4, 2027; she succeeds Charlie Zelle, who retired in September, and interim chair Deb Barber is currently serving. Walz called Hutcheson a "proven leader" focused on roadway safety and quality of life. Hutcheson, a former Minneapolis Public Works director and Salt Lake City transportation director, is a Senate‑confirmed former administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration who worked on the bipartisan infrastructure bill, and she also serves as a senior fellow at the University of Minnesota’s Center for Transportation Studies, runs Hutcheson Advisory, formerly led NACTO’s board, and holds degrees from CU Boulder and the University of Utah.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

3 charged in $564K immigration-services fraud targeting Spanish-language churches; 25 victims, ICE threats alleged

Nov 07 Breaking TC 4

Three people — Kira Romero Pinto, Denis Aquino Martinez and Luis Leiva Aquino — have been charged in a scheme that allegedly swindled about $563,700 from at least 25 victims, primarily Spanish-speaking churchgoers in the Twin Cities, by promising expedited citizenship through a fictitious attorney named “Isabella Jason” and threatening to call ICE on anyone who reported the scheme. Authorities say personal documents were seized, one defendant faces a racketeering charge, known Washington County losses exceed $118,000, the case is being prosecuted jointly by Washington and Dakota counties, and all three remain jailed with bail set at $500,000, $100,000 and $75,000 respectively.

Public Safety Legal

Ex-wife of DOC chief gets 3-year sentence

Nov 07 Breaking TC 3

A Scott County judge, Joy Bartscher, sentenced Paul Schnell’s ex‑wife, Myhre‑Schnell, to three years in prison after she admitted on Dec. 3, 2023, to putting lorazepam and water into her disabled son’s feeding bag — filings quote her saying she hoped he would "go to sleep forever" and later telling investigators she intended to kill him, while the victim, who requires round‑the‑clock ventilator care for spina bifida, told investigators "I made it, I’m still here." The three‑year term was a downward durational departure from guidelines that drew criticism from prosecutors who had sought about 18 years; court records show she received 22 days credit for time served and is expected under Minnesota’s two‑thirds rule to serve roughly two years in custody with the remainder on supervised release, and Commissioner Schnell filed a memo abstaining from any DOC involvement in the case.

Public Safety Legal

Retired Woodbury police chief Bill Hering dies at 76

Nov 07 Breaking TC 1

William “Bill” Frederick Hering IV, former Woodbury police chief and public safety director, died Nov. 1, 2025 at age 76 following a brain cancer diagnosis. Hering led Woodbury Public Safety for 32 years and was praised by current Director Jason Posel for shaping a culture of respectful, service‑oriented policing; visitation is Nov. 13 in Stillwater and funeral services are Nov. 14 in Afton, with donations requested to the Public Safety Woodbury Community Support Fund.

Public Safety Local Government

Walz orders half‑staff flags for Farmington officer

Nov 07 Breaking TC 1

Gov. Tim Walz ordered all U.S. and Minnesota flags at state buildings to fly at half‑staff on Friday, Nov. 7, 2025, to honor Farmington Police Officer Pete Zajac, a 15‑year veteran and former school resource officer who died by suicide on Oct. 28. The proclamation encourages all Minnesotans and organizations to lower flags; a Mass was held Friday in Hastings, and a GoFundMe has been set up for his family.

Public Safety Local Government

EPA moves to relax HFC refrigerant limits

Nov 07 Dev TC 1

The EPA under Administrator Lee Zeldin proposed loosening parts of a Biden‑era 2023 rule that accelerates the phaseout of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the 2020 AIM Act, arguing businesses need more time and flexibility. The plan, which follows a September step easing requirements for cold‑storage warehouses and delaying some compliance to 2032, would affect grocery chains, refrigeration firms, and HVAC companies nationwide, including in the Twin Cities, while environmental groups warn it will worsen climate pollution and disrupt ongoing industry transitions.

Environment Government/Regulatory

Two charged in Bar Zia killing; prosecutors cite security lapses, city shutters bar

Nov 07 Dev TC 2

Prosecutors say a July shooting at downtown Minneapolis’ Bar Zia left 21-year-old Damarco Fletcher Jr. dead and three others wounded (women, 35 and 22, and a 24-year-old man) and led to charges against Arlonzo Williams Jr., 26, for second‑degree murder, illegal gun possession and three counts of attempted murder, and Dantrell DaJuan Clark, 24, as an accomplice on murder and attempted murder counts. Charging documents allege coordinated, gang-related conduct and security lapses — including patrons being allowed to re‑enter without screening after suspects briefly exited to retrieve a gun — and the city closed Bar Zia three days later for a licensing violation tied to lack of insurance.

Legal Public Safety Local Government

Supreme Court allows Trump passport sex‑marker policy to take effect during lawsuit

Nov 07 Breaking TC 3

The U.S. Supreme Court granted the Trump administration’s request to let its passport sex‑marker policy take effect while litigation continues, staying a June injunction by U.S. District Judge Julia E. Kobick that had blocked the policy. The unsigned order—reasoning that listing sex at birth is a historical fact akin to country of birth and implicates foreign‑affairs authority, and echoing Solicitor General D. John Sauer’s argument that the president has passport authority (citing a recent ruling on transgender care)—drew dissents from the Court’s three liberal justices, with Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson warning it will harm transgender Americans barred from selecting markers such as “X.”

Government/Regulatory Legal Government

Nicolet to rebrand 13 Twin Cities branches

Nov 07 Breaking TC 1

Nicolet Bank will acquire MidWestOne Bank in an $864 million merger and rebrand MidWestOne’s 13 Twin Cities branches, significantly expanding its presence beyond its current two metro locations. The combined entity’s CEO said Friday that the Minneapolis–Saint Paul region will be a primary growth market, with potential for additional acquisitions.

Business & Economy

DHS cites Care Crossings for 27 violations

Nov 07 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota’s Department of Human Services issued an Oct. 24 correction order to Care Crossings in Oak Park Heights, finding 27 violations and more than 100 breaches of laws or rules after late-July site visits. The report cites billing for services not provided, falsified documentation, illegal group sizes, excessive caseloads and unlicensed staff leading sessions; DHS previously fined the owner $200 in August for using a disqualified staffer and warned that failure to correct could result in additional fines or license sanctions.

Health Legal

CFPB says FCRA preempts state medical‑debt credit-report bans; Minnesota law at risk

Nov 07 Breaking TC 2

The CFPB has issued guidance interpreting the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act as preempting state bans on reporting medical debt to credit reports, putting Minnesota’s law — one of 14 states that bar such reporting (and five that restrict it) — at risk. Credit bureaus and credit unions sued to block a January CFPB rule advancing that view, the incoming administration declined to defend it and a federal judge blocked the rule, leaving uncertainty for states even as Americans carry at least $220 billion in medical debt and roughly 6% of adults owe more than $1,000.

Legal Health Business & Economy

Kaohly Her wins St. Paul mayor with 51.5% after RCV

Nov 07 Breaking TC 12

Rep. Kaohly Vang Her won St. Paul’s mayoral race after ranked‑choice tabulation, finishing with 51.5% to defeat incumbent Melvin Carter, who led first‑choice ballots (Carter ~40.8%, Her ~38.4%). Using new open‑source RCV software that produced same‑night results, transfers — which added about 6,411 votes to Her and 2,807 to Carter — delivered a roughly 2.8‑point (~1,877‑vote) margin; Her becomes St. Paul’s first Hmong‑American and first woman mayor and will serve a three‑year term.

Local Government Elections

Four arrested after stolen Jeep chase in Minneapolis

Nov 07 Breaking TC 1

The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office Violent Offender Task Force arrested four people Thursday after pursuing a white Jeep stolen in Maple Grove that was linked to auto-theft tampering, dangerous driving, and a report of a suspect pointing a gun. The pursuit ended near W. 28th St. and Aldrich Ave. S. in south Minneapolis after stop sticks were used; the driver fled on foot, the passenger moved to the driver’s seat and struck the original driver before the vehicle stopped. All occupants were arrested, two were hospitalized, and six guns were recovered, according to HCSO.

Public Safety Legal

Frey wins third term after single RCV round; precinct map shows bases

Nov 07 Dev TC 8

Jacob Frey was declared the winner of the 2025 Minneapolis mayoral race, earning a third term after a single round of ranked‑choice reallocation Wednesday morning that left him with about 50% of the final vote (he led first‑choice totals roughly 42% to Omar Fateh’s 32%) and prompted Fateh to concede. The count — finished around 11 a.m. after Hennepin County’s cast‑vote record arrived and city teams manually reallocated rankings — came amid record turnout (147,702 voters, 55%), and precinct results show Frey’s strength in southwest Minneapolis, the city core and parts of north Minneapolis while Fateh’s support clustered in Powderhorn, LynLake, Phillips, the university area and Cedar‑Riverside; Fateh received nearly 20,000 second‑choice votes but could not overcome Frey’s first‑round lead.

Local Government Elections

Why Minneapolis reported RCV results later

Nov 07 TC 1

Ramsey County delivered St. Paul’s ranked‑choice outcome around midnight using new open‑source tabulation software, while Minneapolis waited for a Hennepin County file and then followed a city‑ordinance process requiring manual write‑in review and spreadsheet‑based reallocation, finishing late Wednesday morning. Officials detailed exact timelines, software used, and legacy costs that shaped how quickly results were posted in each city.

Elections Local Government Technology

Minnesota Rusco bankruptcy spurs at least 10 lawsuits; recovery fund capped at $550K per contractor

Nov 07 Breaking TC 6

Minnesota Rusco, a 70-year-old New Hope home‑improvement company, abruptly ceased operations after parent Renovo Home Partners filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy for itself and 19 subsidiaries, leaving employees — who received only three days of health insurance — and customers with unfinished work and large prepaid sums; court filings list $100–$500 million in liabilities against $1–$10 million in assets, and at least 10 lawsuits have been filed. Because Rusco was DLI‑licensed, affected homeowners must first sue and obtain a court judgment to seek reimbursement from Minnesota’s Contractor Recovery Fund, but recoveries are constrained by limits of up to $550,000 per licensed contractor (and $100,000 per consumer), and state officials are urging consumers to file complaints and dispute charges.

Consumer Business & Economy Housing

Ramsey judge tosses 2021 St. Paul arson case

Nov 07 Breaking TC 1

Ramsey County District Judge Leonardo Castro dismissed the first-degree arson case against Matthew Ryan Gieske on Tuesday, citing insufficient evidence after prosecutors said their key eyewitness who could identify the arsonist left Minnesota and could not be located. The case stemmed from a Sept. 7, 2021 fire that severely damaged a North End apartment building on the 1600 block of Marion St.; the judge excluded body-cam clothing IDs as hearsay and found no remaining evidence tying Gieske to starting the blaze.

Legal Public Safety

Farmington officer Pete Zajac dies by suicide

Nov 07 Breaking TC 2

Community and state officials are mourning 41-year-old Officer Pete Zajac, a 15-year Farmington police veteran who was born in Hastings, grew up in Wyoming, Minn., lived in Hastings for the past 11 years and worked in Faribault from 2006–2010. Gov. Tim Walz ordered state and U.S. flags at government buildings to fly at half-staff on the day of Zajac’s funeral, and a GoFundMe has been established to support his family.

Health Local Government Public Safety

St. Paul renews call in 1990 cold-case killing

Nov 07 Dev TC 1

St. Paul police marked the 35th anniversary of the unsolved Nov. 6, 1990 homicide of Robert Spann, a 27-year-old William Mitchell law school graduate, with a renewed public appeal for tips. Spann was found shot and stabbed in the basement of his Marshall Avenue home between Milton and Victoria; robbery was a possible motive, and investigators ask anyone with information to call 651-266-5650.

Public Safety Legal

Cottage Grove OKs EIS for riverbed mine

Nov 07 Breaking TC 1

The Cottage Grove City Council voted 5–0 on Nov. 6 to deem adequate the final environmental impact statement for Amrize Nelson’s proposal to shift and expand sand-and-gravel mining into the Mississippi River backwaters near Lower Grey Cloud Island, moving the project to state and federal permitting. Friends of the Mississippi River objected, arguing shoreline mining is illegal under MRCCA rules, while the mayor said the three‑year review only assessed EIS adequacy; the expansion would tap about 400 acres and extend mine life by 20–25 years.

Local Government Environment

St. Paul Sen. Sandy Pappas retiring in 2026

Nov 06 Breaking TC 1

DFL Sen. Sandy Pappas, who represents St. Paul’s SD 65 and chairs the Senate Capital Investment Committee, announced she will retire after the 2026 session, ending a 42‑year legislative career. The former Senate president (2013–2016) highlighted work on bonding and local projects like Pedro Park, the Third Street–Kellogg Bridge, the North End Community Center and Union Depot; her departure creates an open seat in central St. Paul and a change in leadership over statewide infrastructure funding.

Local Government Elections

Peloton recalls 878K Bike+ units for seat-post hazard

Nov 06 Breaking TC 1

Peloton is recalling about 878,000 Original Series Bike+ exercise bikes (model PL02) in the U.S. and Canada after reports that seat posts can break, posing a fall risk. The Nov. 6 action, announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada, covers bikes sold from 2020 through April 2025; owners are urged to stop using affected bikes and contact Peloton for a free redesigned seat-post replacement.

Public Safety Health

Burnsville police seek more victims in sex case

Nov 06 Dev TC 1

Burnsville police are asking additional victims or witnesses to come forward after charging 19-year-old Teodros Raymond Pluntz with multiple counts of criminal sexual conduct tied to two younger teens. A Sept. 13 incident allegedly occurred at his parents’ home on Sibley Court in Burnsville, with prosecutors citing video evidence and documented injuries; a second case involves a 15-year-old who says videos were posted online. Pluntz was charged in September by the Dakota County Attorney’s Office and remains jailed as the investigations continue.

Public Safety Legal

Judge admonishes Lazzaro over juror contact scheme

Nov 06 Dev TC 1

Minnesota’s chief federal judge Patrick Schiltz issued a sharply worded order Thursday admonishing convicted GOP operative Anton “Tony” Lazzaro over an alleged effort to “deceive and bribe” a former juror via a fake survey offering gift cards, and barred Lazzaro or anyone on his behalf from contacting jurors without court permission. The survey, titled “Gopher Women’s Institute 2025 Study,” asked sensitive questions about sexual abuse and was used to support Lazzaro’s bid for a new trial; prosecutors argue a juror’s answers could have changed over time, while defense claims the responses show dishonesty on the original juror questionnaire.

Legal Public Safety

DHS speeds up protest‑charge rules near federal sites

Nov 06 Breaking TC 1

The Trump administration put into effect on Nov. 5 new DHS regulations expanding Federal Protective Service authority to arrest and charge a broader array of offenses on and off federal property, citing a surge in violence. The rules apply to federal facilities nationwide, including those in Minneapolis and St. Paul, and newly address conduct such as obstructing access, wearing a mask while committing a crime, drone use, and tampering with government IT systems; critics warn the changes could be used to target protesters.

Legal Public Safety

Minneapolis speed cameras cut speeding 30%; citations begin Friday

Nov 06 Breaking TC 3

Minneapolis this week activated five traffic‑safety cameras (Fremont Ave N near W Broadway; 18th Ave NE near Central Ave NE; 3rd St N near 1st Ave N; Chicago Ave S near Franklin Ave E; Nicollet Ave S near 46th St) as part of a pilot through July 2029 that could expand to 42 cameras and later add red‑light enforcement; the cameras capture license plates only (no facial recognition) and enforcement areas are signed as required by state law. Preliminary results show speeding fell about 30% at the camera sites and drivers exceeding limits by 20+ mph dropped 76% after a month, with 12,633 warnings issued; October warnings count as a first offense, citations begin Friday (first detected offense is a warning) and subsequent fines are $40 or $80 if 20+ mph over, though drivers may contest tickets or take a free traffic‑safety class in lieu of paying the first citation.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Patrick Knight launches Minnesota governor campaign

Nov 06 Breaking TC 1

Patrick Knight, a businessman and retired U.S. Marine who grew up in Plymouth and is CEO of Good Sense Foods, announced a Republican bid for Minnesota governor. In an announcement video and website, he outlined priorities including pushing Minnesota into the Top 10 for GDP, job and wage growth, improving public safety and student proficiency, and making homeownership more affordable; he joins a crowded GOP field seeking to challenge Gov. Tim Walz, who is running for a third term.

Elections Local Government

St. Paul orders demo of former CVS at Snelling & University; 15-day deadline

Nov 06 Breaking TC 2

St. Paul’s City Council voted unanimously to order demolition of the vacant former CVS at 499 Snelling Ave. N., giving a 15‑day deadline after Hearing Officer Marcia Moermond detailed severe building deterioration (missing ventilation, compromised electrical) and an extensive nuisance history. Council Member Molly Coleman cited roughly 600 police visits in five years; CVS, which holds a lease through January 2031, asked for a 120‑day delay to seek buyers, while neighborhood groups urged demolition but worried about the consequences of an interim empty lot.

Housing Local Government

Woman fatally shot in Minneapolis apartment; man arrested

Nov 06 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis police say a woman was shot and killed around 5:45 p.m. Wednesday inside an apartment on the 2600 block of W. Broadway; a 65-year-old Minneapolis man, described as an acquaintance, was arrested that evening and remains jailed with charges pending. Officers recovered a gun in the apartment and a knife on the living room floor; the victim’s identity has not yet been released. The killing is the city’s 59th homicide of the year and the fifth in the past week.

Public Safety

NOAA: Auroras possible over Minnesota tonight

Nov 06 Breaking TC 1

NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center issued a strong geomagnetic storm watch as a coronal mass ejection is expected to arrive between Thursday evening, Nov. 6, and Friday morning, Nov. 7, potentially making northern lights visible across Minnesota, including the Twin Cities’ darker outskirts. Forecasters do not expect major radio or communications disruptions; a bright moon may reduce visibility, and viewing could continue Friday night depending on solar activity.

Weather Environment

Trump announces Medicare coverage for obesity drugs

Nov 06 Breaking TC 1

President Donald Trump said Nov. 6 the administration reached deals with Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to expand Medicare coverage for GLP-1 obesity drugs Zepbound and Wegovy starting next year, while phasing in lower prices for some uninsured patients. The plan also sets a $149/month price for starting doses of new pill versions if approved, though officials cautioned consumer savings will vary by insurance and market competition.

Health Business & Economy

Minnesota on pace for record eight 2025 specials

Nov 06 TC 2

Minnesota is on pace for a record eight special elections in 2025 after two more were announced, joining six earlier special-election triggers: the resignation of Sen. Nicole Mitchell, the death of Sen. Bruce Anderson, the assassination of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, the resignation of former Sen. Justin Eichorn, a residency dispute involving Rep.-elect Curtis Johnson, and the death of former Sen. Kari Dziedzic. Gov. Tim Walz will set the dates; the two new House vacancies are in heavily DFL districts (Kaohly Her won HD 64A with 83% and Amanda Hemmingsen‑Jaeger won HD 47A with 61%, with presidential margins of roughly +70 and +25 for Kamala Harris), but with the House tied 67–67 a single GOP flip would create a Republican majority — though any GOP bills would still face a DFL Senate and the governor — and big 2026 issues already being floated include gun control and barring transgender women and girls from female sports.

Local Government Elections

Most MN school levies pass; MSBA says 62% of 96 questions approved, ~$1B okayed statewide

Nov 06 TC 3

Minnesota voters approved 60 of 96 school referendum questions (just over 62%) across roughly 70 districts in the 2025 election, the Minnesota School Boards Association said, OKaying about $1 billion of the roughly $1.6 billion districts sought. MSBA cautioned results are unofficial until certified; local outcomes include St. Paul Public Schools’ levy, confirmed to generate about $37.2 million annually for 10 years, and high pass rates in many rural districts as districts contend with inflation and the 10‑year referendum limit.

Elections Local Government Education

Stillwater denies cannabis shop near rec center

Nov 06 Breaking TC 1

The Stillwater City Council on Nov. 5 denied permits for two adult‑use cannabis retailers — including one at 1754 Washington Ave. near the St. Croix Valley Recreation Center and another near Chesterton Academy — while approving a third location. Council debate focused on how Minnesota’s buffer rules apply, including whether the recreation center is a 'public park attraction' regularly used by minors and how to measure distance; the city attorney said Curio Dance does not meet the state definition of a school for the 1,000‑ft buffer.

Local Government Business & Economy

Mpls Park Board appoints interim District 2 commissioner

Nov 06 Breaking TC 1

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board appointed educator Averi Turner, 29, on Nov. 5 to temporarily fill the North Side’s District 2 seat through year‑end after Becka Thompson resigned to run for City Council. Turner will attend four meetings and represent District 2 during debate and approval of the park system’s proposed $160 million budget; her pay will be prorated, and Charles Rucker will assume the elected District 2 seat in January.

Local Government Elections

Ex-Minneapolis teacher pleads in child-porn case

Nov 06 Dev TC 2

A former Minneapolis substitute teacher, identified as Palmer, pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography and solicitation of a minor after an anti-child-porn vigilante’s sting that lured him to a park, where a child reportedly said, "That's my teacher." Palmer — who originally faced 14 counts — is scheduled to be sentenced Dec. 3, 2025, and Minneapolis Public Schools issued a statement emphasizing student safety and reporting channels.

Education Legal

16-year-old charged in north Minneapolis birthday-party killing of Aundre Loyd

Nov 06 Breaking TC 4

Sixteen-year-old Raymond Valentino Bowser was arrested inside a north Minneapolis home and charged with second-degree murder after 15-year-old Aundre Loyd was fatally shot in the basement during a birthday party shortly after 10:45 p.m. on the 2900 block of Russell Ave. N. Charging documents say the shooting followed an “interaction” after Loyd complimented Bowser’s shoes, a semiautomatic handgun and a bullet hole were found at the scene, witnesses said they fled in fear, Bowser admitted touching the gun, and Hennepin County intends to prosecute him as an adult; the killing was one of three deadly shootings in Minneapolis over a four-day span.

Public Safety Legal

Lakeville man gets probation in FOF case

Nov 06 Dev TC 1

U.S. District Judge Nancy Brasel sentenced Lakeville resident Khadar Adan to one year of probation and $1,000 restitution on Nov. 5 after he pled guilty to misdemeanor theft of government property for allowing a sham meal site to operate out of his Minneapolis JigJiga business center and accepting $1,000 in proceeds. Prosecutors said Adan and co-defendants falsely claimed 70,000 meals via the Lake Street Kitchen site from Dec. 2020 to Apr. 2021; Adan is the third and final co-defendant from that site to plead guilty in the broader Feeding Our Future fraud probe.

Legal Public Safety

Lakeville booster treasurer charged in $80K theft

Nov 05 Breaking TC 2

A former treasurer of two Lakeville gymnastics booster clubs was charged by summons with two felony theft counts after police allege she stole more than $80,000 — nearly $51,000 from one club between March 2021 and 2024 and just over $32,000 from the other between August 2022 and June 2024. Court papers say casino records show an estimated $41,000 in losses in 2022–2023, the defendant repaid about $30,300 (mostly by cashier’s check) after resigning, admitted taking the funds due to personal financial problems and gambling, and is set for a first court appearance Dec. 9, 2025.

Public Safety Education Legal

States sue DHS over FEMA grant restrictions

Nov 05 Breaking TC 1

Eleven states and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear sued DHS and FEMA in federal court in Eugene, Oregon, challenging new conditions on core emergency-preparedness grants, including cutting the spend period from three years to one and requiring states to certify populations excluding people removed under immigration law. The suit targets the $320M Emergency Management Performance Grant and $1B Homeland Security Grant Program after FEMA issued an Oct. 1 funding hold pending states’ methodology submissions; DHS says the changes ensure effective use aligned with current threats.

Legal Local Government

Roseville police: Two found dead in Best Buy parking lot, suspected murder-suicide

Nov 05 Breaking TC 2

Two adults were found dead inside a vehicle in the Best Buy parking lot on the 1600 block of County Road B2 in Roseville, both located in the front seats. A customer reported hearing multiple gunshots shortly before 2 p.m., and police are investigating the incident as a potential murder‑suicide.

Public Safety

Allina clinic providers hold one-day metro strike

Nov 05 Breaking TC 2

Clinic providers employed by Allina Health staged a one-day strike across metro-area clinics — a historic first for Minnesota that the Doctors Council–SEIU called the largest strike of its kind — and did not include hospital providers. Bargaining, which began in February 2024, continues after the union said it offered multiple proposals on pay, leaves and PTO while Allina made a single offer the union says would reduce pay and benefits and fail to address staffing and burnout; Allina cited rising costs and expected government funding cuts, said contingency plans kept more than 25% of represented providers working, and further bargaining sessions begin Dec. 5 with union members set to return Thursday.

Health Business & Economy

CMS orders states to verify Medicaid immigration status

Nov 05 Dev TC 1

The Trump administration directed state Medicaid agencies to investigate certain enrollees’ immigration status, with CMS beginning in August to send states lists of names to review. CMS Administrator Mehmet Oz claimed on Oct. 31 that over $1 billion was spent on Medicaid for undocumented immigrants in five states and D.C., a figure several states dispute as inaccurate; initial tallies show more than 170,000 names flagged across Colorado, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas and Utah, with more to come. The directive could lead to coverage losses for enrollees who miss paperwork deadlines and adds administrative burden for states, including Minnesota.

Health Government/Regulatory

Only 1 Parents Alliance candidate wins in metros

Nov 05 TC 1

FOX 9 reports that only one of 11 Minnesota Parents Alliance–endorsed school board candidates won on Nov. 4, 2025 — incumbent Matt Audette in Anoka‑Hennepin District 4 — while all others, including candidates in Lakeville, South Washington County, Wayzata and Fridley, lost. The report notes heavy outside spending, including more than $100,000 by Excellence Minnesota in Anoka‑Hennepin, amid heightened post‑pandemic interest in school board races.

Elections Education

Supreme Court hears challenge to Trump’s emergency tariffs; justices signal skepticism

Nov 05 TC 3

The Supreme Court on Nov. 5 heard nearly three hours of consolidated challenges to former President Trump’s unprecedented use of the 1977 IEEPA to impose two waves of emergency tariffs — February duties tied to a fentanyl/drug‑trafficking emergency on imports from Canada, China and Mexico and sweeping April “reciprocal” tariffs on most countries — measures estimated to raise roughly $3 trillion over a decade and amounting to 10–50% import taxes. Justices across the ideological spectrum, including Chief Justice John Roberts, pressed the government on whether IEEPA permits such sweeping trade authority as lower courts have struck down much of the program and challengers (Democratic states and small businesses) invoke the major‑questions and nondelegation doctrines while the government cites core foreign‑affairs power.

Legal Business & Economy

Xcel trims Ten Mile Creek solar, adds batteries

Nov 05 Breaking TC 1

Xcel Energy canceled phase two of its Ten Mile Creek Solar project in St. Croix County, WI, proceeding with a 300‑MW first phase over 2,980 acres and adding a battery energy storage system that will interconnect via a new line to the Allen S. King site in Oak Park Heights. Xcel will file with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin by year‑end 2025, kicking off a 12–18 month review, with construction possible in late 2027 and service by late 2029 as the coal‑fired King plant retires in 2028.

Utilities & Energy Transit & Infrastructure

Minneapolis man Billy Ray Wiley convicted of sex trafficking, assaults at Mahtomedi apartment; sentencing Jan. 7

Nov 05 Breaking TC 2

Minneapolis man Billy Ray Wiley was convicted of sex trafficking and sexually assaulting a 14‑year‑old and a 20‑year‑old at a Mahtomedi apartment and is set to be sentenced Jan. 7. Prosecutors say Wiley recruited women and girls near Twin Cities streets and stores by offering rides, drugs or money; jurors answered yes to four special‑verdict questions allowing an upward departure, County Attorney Kevin Magnuson praised the victims and noted Wiley self‑represented and cross‑examined them, and investigators tied a June 13 assault video to the apartment, found a 14‑year‑old at Piccadilly Square Apartments on June 30 with condoms and drug paraphernalia, and arrested Wiley July 8 after a tracking warrant when a 17‑year‑old was in his car and drug paraphernalia was seized.

Public Safety Legal

Plymouth industrial complex sells for $26M

Nov 05 Breaking TC 1

A California-based investment firm bought the seven-building Park Industrial Village in Plymouth for $26 million, more than triple what the seller paid in 2016. The deal expands the buyer’s Minnesota portfolio and marks a sizable industrial real-estate transaction in Hennepin County.

Business & Economy Housing

FDA warns 18 websites over unapproved Botox

Nov 05 Breaking TC 1

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration sent warning letters to 18 websites for selling counterfeit or unapproved versions of Botox and similar injectables, citing reported injuries and toxic side effects. Announced Wednesday, the FDA urged patients to receive injections only from licensed, trained health professionals and warned that botulism-like symptoms after treatment require immediate medical care.

Health Legal

Minneapolis police probe Drew Avenue murder-suicide

Nov 05 Breaking TC 2

Minneapolis police are investigating a suspected murder–suicide on Drew Avenue near Cedar Lake after a welfare check was requested when the residents — an elderly man and woman in their 80s — hadn't been heard from for several days. Authorities say the deaths are being treated as a shooting, but have not released the victims' identities or said which person was responsible for the gunfire.

Public Safety

Epic, Google settle Android app-store case

Nov 05 Breaking TC 1

Epic Games and Google told a federal judge in San Francisco they’ve reached a comprehensive settlement resolving Epic’s antitrust case over the Google Play Store, proposing terms that align with Judge James Donato’s prior order to open Android to competing app stores and lower fees. The sealed deal, which requires court approval, includes reducing in‑app payment commissions to 9%–20% and obligates distribution of rival third‑party app stores, following a Ninth Circuit decision upholding a jury verdict against Google and the Supreme Court’s refusal to block remedies.

Technology Legal

Minneapolis sets record municipal turnout

Nov 05 Dev TC 1

Minneapolis reported a record 147,702 ballots cast (55% of registered voters) in the 2025 municipal election, surpassing the city’s 2021 high-water mark. Ranked-choice tabulation for the mayoral race and a close City Council contest will resume Wednesday, Nov. 5, with final results to be certified by the City Council acting as the Municipal Canvassing Board on Monday, Nov. 10.

Elections Local Government

Kaohly Her defeats Carter for St. Paul mayor

Nov 05 Breaking TC 1

Rep. Kaohly Vang Her won St. Paul’s mayoral election on Nov. 4, defeating incumbent Melvin Carter and becoming the city’s first Hmong-American and first woman mayor. The result follows ranked-choice tabulation and ushers in a women-led city government alongside St. Paul’s all-women City Council.

Elections Local Government

DFL retains Minnesota Senate after SD47 win; GOP takes SD29

Nov 05 TC 5

Special elections Tuesday left the DFL with a 34–33 Senate majority after state Rep. Amanda Hemmingsen‑Jaeger won open Senate District 47 roughly 61–39 to replace Nicole Mitchell, who resigned following a felony burglary conviction. Republican Michael Holmstrom Jr. captured Senate District 29 by about a 24‑point margin to fill the seat vacated by the late Sen. Bruce Anderson; the House remains evenly split and the Legislature is slated to reconvene Feb. 17, 2026.

Elections Local Government

DFL keeps one-seat Senate majority after Nov. 4 specials

Nov 05 TC 6

Special elections Nov. 4 for SD47 (Woodbury/south Maplewood) and SD29 (parts of Wright, Meeker and Hennepin counties), vacated by DFL Sen. Nicole Mitchell’s resignation and the death of GOP Sen. Bruce Anderson, resulted in DFL Amanda Hemmingsen‑Jaeger winning SD47 and Republican Michael Holmstrom Jr. winning SD29, leaving the Minnesota Senate at a 34–33 DFL majority. The House remains evenly divided heading into the 2026 session (scheduled to resume Feb. 17, 2026), and Hemmingsen‑Jaeger’s victory will trigger a special election to fill her Woodbury-area House seat.

Elections Local Government

St. Paul mayoral race advances to RCV; first count: Carter ~40%, Her ~38%

Nov 05 Breaking TC 4

After first-round unofficial tallies in the five-way St. Paul mayoral race, incumbent Melvin Carter led with just over 40% to challenger Kaohly Her’s just over 38%, so no candidate reached a majority and ranked‑choice reallocations are next. Ramsey County plans to post RCV results late Tuesday using new open‑source tabulation software (ending prior multi‑day hand counts); early returns briefly showed Her slightly ahead, turnout was heavier than expected, and the ballot also included a 10‑year school levy and a charter amendment on administrative citations.

Local Government Elections

St. Paul voters back administrative citations charter amendment; Yes leads 68–32 with 78 of 86 precincts reporting

Nov 05 TC 4

Unofficial returns show St. Paul voters backing an administrative‑citations charter amendment — "Yes" leading 68% to 32% with 78 of 86 precincts reporting. The amendment would authorize the City Council to create civil‑fine penalties for ordinance violations (with specific fines and covered offenses to be set later after public hearings); supporters including Mayor Melvin Carter and Rep. Kaohly Her say it will help enforce everything from building codes to wage and sick‑time rules, while critics such as former councilmember Jane Prince warn fines could be overused or become a budget tool after prior charter attempts failed and a petition forced the measure onto the 2025 ballot.

Local Government Elections

South Washington County Schools elects 3 incumbents, union-backed newcomer

Nov 05 TC 2

In a nine-candidate race for the South Washington County Schools board, voters elected Elizabeth Bockman Eckberg (15.4%), Kathleen (Katie) Schwartz (15.2%), Sharon H. Van Leer (14.5%) and Louise Hinz (14.5%), returning three incumbents to the board. Eckberg was endorsed by the United Teachers for South Washington County; the district covers parts or all of Cottage Grove, Newport, St. Paul Park, Woodbury, Afton, Denmark and Grey Cloud Island Townships.

Education Elections

Mahtomedi voters OK levy hike, $28M bond

Nov 05 Breaking TC 1

Mahtomedi Public Schools voters on Nov. 4 approved raising the operating levy from $1,570 to $2,145 per pupil (64% yes) and a $28 million capital referendum (59% yes) for school security, classroom, mechanical and athletic field upgrades. Passage of the second question depended on the first; district officials estimate taxes on a $500,000 home will rise about $382 per year starting next year.

Elections Education

Ramsey County election results and levies

Nov 05 Breaking TC 1

On Nov. 4, 2025, Ramsey County communities reported municipal and school election results and levy outcomes. White Bear Lake’s mayoral race showed Mary Nicklawske leading 64%–36% with 3 of 6 precincts reporting; Falcon Heights council leaders were Georgiana May (42%) and Jim Mogen (40%) with 1 of 2 precincts; St. Anthony’s two council seats were uncontested. School board outcomes included SANB reelecting Annie Bosmans, Laura Haas and Prachi Striker, with Daniel Turner leading a special race; Mounds View, Roseville and North St. Paul–Maplewood–Oakdale posted partial board tallies, and levies passed in Mounds View (64%) and Roseville (68%) but failed in North St. Paul–Maplewood–Oakdale (56% No).

Elections Education Local Government

Bomb threat delays LaGuardia–MSP Delta flight

Nov 05 Breaking TC 1

Delta Flight 2313 from New York’s LaGuardia to Minneapolis–St. Paul was evacuated Tuesday evening after the crew reported a bomb threat around 8 p.m. ET, according to the Port Authority. Passengers deplaned while the aircraft was searched and cleared by about 10 p.m., but Delta delayed the flight until Wednesday morning.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Dakota County voters approve school levies; Reichenberger, Mikel‑Mulder win board seats

Nov 05 TC 2

Dakota County voters approved school levies in three districts: Farmington’s operating levy passed with more than 57% support, providing $1,236.60 per student (about $8 million a year for 10 years) and raising taxes on a median $350,000 home by roughly $534 a year; Lakeville renewed its 2015 capital projects levy with nearly 70% support, continuing about $4 million a year for 10 years with no new tax increase; and Rosemount‑Apple Valley‑Eagan (ISD 196) voters renewed and increased the tech levy from 3.015% to 5.015% (about 68% approval), adding roughly $6.4 million a year to reach about $15.5 million annually for 10 years. In board races, Tony Reichenberger defeated Lakeville incumbent Brett Nicholson 51%–48%, and Elaine K. Mikel‑Mulder won a Hastings ISD 200 special election with more than 60% of the vote to fill a seat through Jan. 1, 2029.

Local Government Elections Education

Dakota County voters pass school levies, elect board members

Nov 05 Breaking TC 1

On Nov. 4, 2025, Dakota County voters approved school funding measures in Farmington, Lakeville, and Rosemount‑Apple Valley‑Eagan and chose new school board members in Hastings and Lakeville. Farmington’s per‑pupil operating levy will raise about $8M annually (adding ~$534/year for a median $350,000 home), Lakeville renewed its tech levy with no tax increase, ISD 196 expanded its tech levy to ~$15.5M/year, and Elaine K. Mikel‑Mulder and Tony Reichenberger won board seats in Hastings and Lakeville, respectively.

Elections Education

SPPS uses public funds for levy outreach

Nov 05 TC 2

St. Paul Public Schools used taxpayer funds to conduct outreach about a special levy ahead of the Nov. 4 referendum. As of Oct. 29 the district had spent $59,977 on outreach materials and $108,257 in total including the required mailing.

Education Elections Local Government

St. Paul schools seek $1,073-per-pupil levy

Nov 05 TC 2

St. Paul Public Schools is asking voters to approve a $1,073-per-pupil levy referendum that would generate about $37.2 million a year; district officials say failing to pass it would force at least $37 million in budget cuts for 2026–27. The district reported spending roughly $60,000 on levy communications ($108,257 including the required mailed notice), estimates the median homeowner would pay about $309 per year if it passes, and warns that percentage property‑tax increases would vary by neighborhood, with the North End, Payne‑Phalen, Thomas‑Dale/Frogtown and the West Side facing the largest increases.

Education Elections Local Government

Deschene, Audette, Simon win Anoka-Hennepin board; 87-vote margin may trigger recount

Nov 05 Dev TC 2

Kacy Deschene (55.95%, 3,441 votes), Matt Audette (56.56%, 5,115 votes) and Jeff Simon (50.56%, 3,232 votes) won Anoka-Hennepin School Board seats. Simon’s 87-vote margin over Tiffany Strabala (3,145 votes; 49.2%) is likely to trigger an automatic recount amid increased outside involvement in the races, including MN Parents Alliance endorsements and more than $100,000 in spending by Excellence Minnesota.

Elections Education

Brooklyn Park clears officers in Hortman response

Nov 05 Dev TC 1

Brooklyn Park Police’s preliminary internal investigation cleared Officers Zachary Baumtrog and Jay Bloyer in their response to the June 14 slaying of Rep. Melissa Hortman, finding their actions and Baumtrog’s use of force consistent with policy and training. The review says officers attempted to aid Mark Hortman, were unaware of other victims, and waited to enter the home until 4:38 a.m. after deploying a drone; the department has requested a broader third‑party review of the response and communications. Suspect Vance Boelter is charged in the attacks on the Hortmans and an earlier shooting at Sen. John Hoffman’s Champlin home.

Public Safety Legal

Walz breaks ground on $67M Mankato BCA lab

Nov 05 Breaking TC 1

Gov. Tim Walz and state public-safety leaders broke ground Monday on a $67 million Bureau of Criminal Apprehension regional office and forensic lab at 2350 Bassett Drive in Mankato. The 56,000‑square‑foot facility, slated to open in early 2027 with about 50 staff, will handle up to 6,000 cases and 12,000 evidence items per year, expand DNA/firearms/drug testing and training, and is expected to ease caseload pressure on the St. Paul BCA lab that serves the Twin Cities.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Man critical after St. Paul hotel pool rescue

Nov 04 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul police say hotel staff pulled a man from the Quality Inn pool at University and Prior just after 4 p.m. Monday, began CPR, and St. Paul Fire medics transported him to a hospital where he remained in critical condition Tuesday. Police interviewed witnesses and said preliminary information indicates an accidental, but tragic, drowning.

Public Safety Health

St. Louis Park Metropoint office headed to auction

Nov 04 Breaking TC 1

A Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal report says one of the Metropoint office buildings in St. Louis Park is scheduled for auction. The Hennepin County property is part of the multi‑building Metropoint complex, and an auction would mark a notable development in the Twin Cities office market affecting local tenants and tax revenues.

Business & Economy Housing

Judge caps Metro Transit bus injury award at $500K under state law

Nov 04 Breaking TC 2

Hennepin County Judge Laura Thomas reduced a jury’s roughly $4.26 million award in favor of Christopher Lee Swickard to $500,000, citing Minnesota’s statutory damages cap on claims against public entities. A jury had found Metro Transit 80% at fault (Swickard 20%) after Swickard, 52, had his left leg amputated below the knee following a February 2023 incident on E. Lake St.; the probationary driver, Said Muse, resigned and argued Swickard caused his own injuries by chasing the bus, and Metro Transit notes warnings against running after buses.

Transit & Infrastructure Legal

Dependable Home Healthcare to close; 406 layoffs begin Jan. 3 in St. Paul

Nov 04 Breaking TC 2

Dependable Home Healthcare, a St. Paul company located at 23 Empire Drive and in business since 1991, will shut down and suspend services at the end of January, laying off all 406 employees in six phases beginning Jan. 3 and running through Mar. 13, 2026; the workforce includes 368 caregivers and the remainder administrative staff. CEO Katie Fleury cited business challenges and upcoming regulatory changes affecting Minnesota home care, and the closure follows a recent DHS order pausing payments/audits for Medicaid-funded programs (including PCA/CFSS) that could delay payments up to 90 days.

Business & Economy Health

Audit finds 12 compliance issues at MN Governor’s Office

Nov 04 Breaking TC 2

A legislative audit found 12 compliance issues at Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s office, citing failures to follow state policies including not recovering costs for private events at the Governor’s Residence, missing or late retroactive pay, inaccurate reimbursements, failure to maintain an updated electronics inventory, and late vendor payments. Auditors examined controls over receipts/reimbursements and vendor/employee payments, prompting criticism from GOP leaders, while confirming no problems with the governor’s and lieutenant governor’s salaries or staff who worked on the 2024 presidential campaign.

Legal Local Government

St. Paul proposes cannabis business manager post

Nov 04 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul plans to add a cannabis oversight position in its proposed 2026 budget to guide entrepreneurs through registration, zoning and local compliance, with pay between $73,000 and $102,000 funded by cannabis registration fees. City officials say they hope to fill the role internally, mirroring Minneapolis’ existing specialist, as the Office of Cannabis Management notes cities are still shaping oversight in the evolving market.

Local Government Business & Economy

Employee fatally shot after confronting theft suspect in Seward lot

Nov 04 Breaking TC 3

A Cornerstone Parking Group employee in his 40s was fatally shot in the fenced employee lot in the 2600 block of 32nd Ave. S. in Seward after confronting someone allegedly rifling through a vehicle; a brief struggle occurred around 6:30 a.m. and co-workers found him about 20 minutes later. Police say the killing — called "senseless" by Chief Brian O'Hara — appears tied to an attempted petty theft, and no arrests or suspect details have been released.

Public Safety

Dinkytown Halloween shooting kills 1, injures 2; MPD recovers 3 guns

Nov 04 Breaking TC 4

A Halloween-night triple shooting in Dinkytown near the University of Minnesota left one man dead and two others — including a UMN undergraduate and a juvenile — wounded; the deceased is not believed to be a UMN student and the two survivors were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. Minneapolis police recovered three guns at the scene, say officers heard two bursts of fully automatic fire and suspect illegal conversion devices, no arrests have been announced, and MPD will increase patrols (CrimeStoppers tip line: 1-800-222-TIPS).

Public Safety Education

Three Minneapolis homicides in four days

Nov 04 Dev TC 1

Minneapolis recorded three fatal shootings between Thursday and Sunday, including a teen killed during a basement birthday gathering on the 2900 block of Russell Ave. N., a Dinkytown shooting that killed one and injured two (including a UMN student), and a south Minneapolis worker fatally shot after confronting a prowler. MPD’s dashboard shows 54 homicides year-to-date — not including the Sunday teen — compared with 66 at this time last year and 37 in 2019; no arrests had been announced in the Dinkytown or worker cases at the time of this report.

Public Safety

Chrysler recalls 320K Jeep plug-in hybrids

Nov 04 Breaking TC 1

Chrysler (Stellantis) is recalling more than 320,000 Jeep Wrangler 4xe (MY 2020–2025) and Grand Cherokee 4xe (MY 2022–2026) plug-in hybrids nationwide due to faulty batteries that can fail and catch fire, the NHTSA announced Nov. 4, 2025. Owners are instructed to park outside away from structures and not charge their vehicles until a remedy is determined; VINs will be searchable Nov. 6 and interim owner letters mail by Dec. 2 under recall 68C.

Public Safety Technology

Austin man gets workhouse for MSP DUI crash

Nov 04 Breaking TC 1

Michael John Tindal, 33, of Austin, was sentenced Nov. 3 in Hennepin County District Court to six months in the county workhouse and five years’ probation after pleading guilty to four counts of criminal vehicular operation for a Jan. 30 head-on crash on 34th Ave. S. near I-494 in Bloomington that injured six, including two young children in his pickup. Judge Sarah West stayed a 15-month prison term; police said Tindal’s BAC was 0.281 and he was driving after his license was revoked from an earlier DWI.

Legal Public Safety

Minneapolis election to decide council control

Nov 04 TC 3

Minneapolis voters are deciding whether the City Council’s seven-member progressive bloc will retain its veto-proof edge over Mayor Jacob Frey, with three open seats and three competitive incumbent races — including Ward 2 (Shelley Madore raised $129,000 to Robin Wonsley’s $72,000) and a costly Ward 7 contest in which incumbent Katie Cashman lost the DFL endorsement to Elizabeth Shaffer — poised to determine control. Only first-choice ranked-choice totals will be reported Tuesday night and reallocations resume Wednesday, and the council outcome is tied to the broader mayoral showdown between Frey and democratic-socialist Omar Fateh, who is running as part of a coordinated “slate for change.”

Elections Local Government

Pro-labor challengers surge in Mpls Park races

Nov 04 TC 2

A surge of pro-labor challengers and democratic-socialist newcomers is reshaping the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board races, with all nine seats on the ballot, several incumbents not seeking re-election, and results that may take days to finalize. At-large contests include incumbents Meg Forney and Tom Olsen, DFL endorsements for Olsen, Michael Wilson and Amber Frederick, three newcomers who identify as democratic socialists (Adam Schneider, Averi Turner and Michael Wilson) and mayoral backing for Mary McKelvey and Matthew Dowgwillo; District 1 now features DFL-backed union organizer Dan Engelhart after incumbent Billy Menz suspended his bid, Districts 2 and 3 are uncontested (Charles Rucker and Kedar Deshpande) and District 4 pits Jeannette Colby and Andrew Gebo against DFL-endorsed Jason Garcia.

Elections Local Government

Minneapolis voters decide Park Board, BET seats

Nov 04 Breaking TC 1

On Nov. 4, Minneapolis voters are casting ballots for all nine Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board seats and the Board of Estimate and Taxation, with four Park Board incumbents not seeking re‑election and results potentially taking days. The at‑large field includes incumbents Meg Forney and Tom Olsen, DFL endorsements for Olsen, Michael Wilson and Amber Frederick, and mayoral picks Mary McKelvey and Matthew Dowgwillo; district races feature unopposed candidates in Districts 2 (Charles Rucker) and 3 (Kedar Deshpande), a reshuffled District 1 after Billy Menz suspended his bid, and a three‑way District 4 contest to replace Elizabeth Shaffer.

Elections Local Government

Suburban Twin Cities elect local leaders

Nov 04 Breaking TC 1

On Election Day, Nov. 4, 2025, voters in Bloomington, Minnetonka and Lino Lakes are choosing mayors and City Council members amid debates over taxes, development and affordability; polls are open 7 a.m.–8 p.m. The article details candidate slates and priorities, including Bloomington’s at‑large race (Jonathan Minks, Danielle Robertson, Isaak Rooble) plus two district contests, Minnetonka’s open mayoral race with five candidates and one contested at‑large seat, and Lino Lakes’ mayoral race centered on rapid development and a controversial housing/mosque project with incumbent Rob Rafferty seeking reelection.

Elections Local Government

Anoka-Hennepin school board race draws big spending

Nov 04 TC 1

FOX 9 reports a surge of outside spending in Anoka-Hennepin’s school board races ahead of the Nov. 4 election, with campaign finance records showing Excellence Minnesota has spent over $100,000 statewide and is linked to the Minnesota Parents Alliance. The local teachers union president warns of unprecedented out-of-district and out-of-state money as three seats could shift the six-member board’s balance; the Minnesota School Boards Association urges voters to research candidates and issues.

Elections Education

Community campaign saves Lake of the Isles rink

Nov 04 Breaking TC 1

After the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board considered closing the Lake of the Isles outdoor skating rink due to climate pressures and budget shortfalls, a neighborhood campaign led by Kenwood resident Janet Hallaway gathered nearly 3,000 signatures, prompting staff to keep the rink open for the upcoming winter season. District 4 Park Commissioner Elizabeth Shaffer said the push also spurred plans to restore and maintain several other rinks that were slated for closure or were closed last year.

Local Government Environment

Allina Doctors Council sets Nov. 9 one-day strike with rally at HQ

Nov 04 Dev TC 3

Allina Doctors Council SEIU has scheduled a one-day strike for Nov. 9 with a large rally at Allina’s Minneapolis headquarters, calling it “the largest strike of its kind” to protect primary care after earlier reports of a 10-day strike notice and a previously reported Nov. 5 date. Allina says two bargaining sessions are set before the walkout, will maintain safe patient care, argues the union’s compensation and benefits demands are unsustainable, and is closing four clinics on Nov. 1, 2025 (Inver Grove Heights, Maplewood, Nicollet Mall and Oakdale).

Health Business & Economy

Arrest, charges in Nicollet Ave music‑video robbery

Nov 04 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis police say a 20-year-old St. Paul man has been arrested and charged with two felonies after allegedly robbing two men at gunpoint while they filmed a music video on Oct. 18 near the 1800 block of Nicollet Ave. S. The robbery was captured on the victims’ video; hours later the suspect was seen on city cameras in the same clothing and arrested after a short foot chase, with a Glock handgun and 31‑round magazine recovered along with some stolen cash and jewelry. Due to a prior felony, the suspect is barred from possessing firearms or ammunition.

Public Safety Legal

Construction mishap triggers Stillwater power outages near hospital

Nov 04 Dev TC 1

Xcel Energy says construction equipment at HealthPartners’ new Lakeview Hospital site in Stillwater struck power lines Friday, cutting electricity to about 3,000 customers for roughly two hours and damaging a power pole. A controlled outage Sunday affected about 300 customers for under an hour to complete repairs, and crews plan to replace the damaged pole on Tuesday; residents report multiple outages since work began this summer near MN 36 and Manning Ave.

Utilities Public Safety

Lake St. Croix Beach fires administrator; suit planned

Nov 04 Breaking TC 1

Lake St. Croix Beach’s council voted 3–2 on Oct. 20 to terminate City Clerk/Administrator Dave Engstrom, 71, after a 90‑day performance plan; Engstrom says he will sue for age discrimination and has retained Minneapolis‑based Halunen Law Firm. During an open review, officials cited attendance, communication and meeting‑minutes oversight issues, while Engstrom disputed the findings and alleged a council member previously called for “new blood.”

Local Government Legal

Police ID men in St. Paul Front Ave. shootout: Lawrence Harris, 30, and Lasean Williams, 28

Nov 03 Breaking TC 2

St. Paul police identified the two men killed in an apparent exchange of gunfire on Front Avenue as Lawrence A. Harris, 30, of St. Paul, and Lasean T. Williams, 28, of St. Louis Park. Officers responded about 4:20 a.m. Friday to the 400 block of Front Avenue where Harris was found in the street and Williams was driven to a nearby fire station before being transported to a hospital; police say both — who knew each other — sustained multiple gunshot wounds, and their deaths are the city’s 10th and 11th homicides of 2025.

Public Safety

Avery Severson launches bid for House 36A

Nov 03 Breaking TC 1

Avery Severson announced Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, that she is running as a Republican for Minnesota House District 36A, which covers Lino Lakes, Circle Pines, North Oaks, Centerville, and most of White Bear Township. The swing‑district race is endorsed by outgoing Rep. Elliott Engen, now running for state auditor, and comes as the House is split 67–67, making 36A one of several seats likely to decide majority control in 2026.

Elections Local Government

Tou Thao released from federal prison; now under Anoka County supervision

Nov 03 Dev TC 3

Tou Thao, a former Minneapolis police officer convicted in the murder of George Floyd, was released Monday from a federal prison in Lexington, Kentucky. He is now under post-release supervision through Anoka County Corrections.

Public Safety Legal

Eagan HSI agent pleads to child-sex videos

Nov 03 Breaking TC 2

An Eagan Homeland Security Investigations agent, Gregg, pleaded guilty after admitting he recorded sex acts with a 17‑year‑old and sent the videos to her; he met the victim on Tinder (where she was listed as 19), checked a law‑enforcement database after their fourth meeting and learned she was 17 but continued to see her. Court documents say they met at least nine times from early March to May, mostly at a local hotel, and the case began when the victim’s father found explicit images on her phone; Gregg pleaded to transportation of child pornography—avoiding a production charge with a 15‑year mandatory minimum—and faces a statutory range of 5–20 years (prosecutors suggest 14–17.5 years), with no sentencing date set.

Public Safety Legal

Second ambush reported at Minneapolis church

Nov 03 Dev TC 2

A second ambush was reported outside a Minneapolis Catholic church when would-be robbers staged an attack around 6:20 p.m. Saturday during evening Mass, police said. The suspects fled before officers arrived, neither victim required medical treatment, and police remained on-site for the rest of Saturday’s Mass and provided extra security on Sunday.

Public Safety

Developers propose 181 apartments in downtown Rogers

Nov 03 Breaking TC 1

Developers Bader and Ebert plan a 181‑unit market‑rate apartment project on a former semi‑truck site in downtown Rogers, according to a Nov. 3 report. The Hennepin County proposal would add substantial new housing to the northwest Twin Cities suburb; further city review and approvals were not detailed in the report.

Housing Business & Economy

BCA says recalculations confirm DWI breath tests accurate; amended reports forthcoming

Nov 03 Breaking TC 6

The Minnesota BCA found operator data‑entry errors tied to dry‑gas cylinder changes that led to a temporary suspension and an initial estimate of at least 146 (later up to 276) potentially affected DWI breath tests in counties including Hennepin, Olmsted, Aitkin, Winona and Chippewa and ordered inspections and verification of DataMaster instruments. After mathematical recalculations, the BCA says the flagged results are accurate and within established margins, has secured more than half the instruments with full verification expected in weeks, will issue amended reports to law enforcement, prosecutors and defense attorneys, and will restrict future cylinder changes to BCA personnel while defense attorneys press for transparency on the recalculations.

Public Safety Legal

Minneapolis early voting at second-highest pace

Nov 03 Dev TC 1

Minneapolis reports more than 23,000 early ballots cast as of Sunday, about 9% of eligible voters, putting the city on pace for its second‑highest municipal early turnout behind 2021. The Early Vote Center (980 E. Hennepin Ave.) is open until 5 p.m. Monday ahead of Tuesday’s election for mayor, all 13 City Council seats, all nine Park Board seats, and the two Board of Estimate and Taxation seats; Ward 6 currently leads early turnout, followed by Ward 3.

Elections Local Government

Man shot inside St. Paul Saloon; suspect sought

Nov 03 Breaking TC 2

A man was shot in the leg inside the St. Paul Saloon and chased and returned fire at the suspected gunman, Sgt. Toy Vixayvong said. Officers applied a tourniquet and St. Paul Fire medics transported the victim with non-life-threatening injuries; as of Monday morning police had not located the suspect and it was unclear whether the suspect was struck.

Public Safety

Ex-Lakeville dance teacher sentenced for assault

Nov 03 Breaking TC 2

A former Lakeville dance instructor, Olson, was sentenced to two months in jail after being accused and later admitting to sexually assaulting a former teen student. Probation bars him from holding positions of authority over minors or vulnerable people and includes monitoring of his internet use; the complaint says he began messaging the student on Instagram when she was in ninth grade, later gave private lessons in 11th grade, allegedly threatened suicide to coerce contact, and had five to eight sexual encounters with her at his home before she turned 18.

Public Safety Legal

AAA: 36% ignore Move Over; 1,500 MN citations

Nov 02 TC 1

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that 36% of drivers observed at roadside incident scenes neither slowed down nor moved over, based on traffic‑camera analysis of 12,360 motorists in 13 states. Minnesota’s Move Over (Ted Foss) law requires motorists to change lanes—or slow down if they cannot—when passing emergency, maintenance, and, since 2023, stalled or disabled vehicles with hazards flashing; state records show nearly 1,500 Minnesotans have been cited so far in 2025 (about 1,680 in 2024 and 1,400 in 2023). Officials and AAA Minnesota say increased awareness and consistent messaging could improve compliance and protect responders and stranded motorists on Twin Cities roads.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Walz directs $4M to Minnesota food shelves as SNAP cutoff nears

Nov 02 Breaking TC 8

Gov. Tim Walz this week formally directed $4 million to Minnesota food shelves as an emergency stopgap ahead of an expected Nov. 1 interruption to SNAP and other federal food and preschool aid if the partial federal shutdown continues. The one‑time allocation — small compared with roughly $73 million in monthly SNAP benefits that reach more than 440,000 Minnesotans — supplements relief from United Way, local governments and food pantries preparing expanded distributions, but advocates warn food shelves alone cannot close the gap.

Health Local Government Business & Economy

Washington County allocates $250K to food shelves

Nov 02 Breaking TC 2

Washington County Board approved a one-time $250,000 allocation to area food shelves to help meet rising need as federal aid is strained. The move mirrors other metro stopgaps—Bloomington also approved $250,000 in grants—and comes as United Way launches a relief campaign while city departments coordinate donation drives and urge support for pantries such as VEAP.

Health Local Government

Ramsey County elections: races and ballot measures

Nov 02 TC 1

Ahead of Tuesday’s vote, the Pioneer Press lists Ramsey County ballots: St. Paul and White Bear Lake mayoral races; city council contests in Falcon Heights, St. Anthony and White Bear Lake; and school board races in St. Anthony–New Brighton, Mounds View, North St. Paul–Maplewood–Oakdale and Roseville. St. Paul voters will also decide a St. Paul Public Schools levy that would raise $37 million annually for 10 years (inflation‑adjusted) and a charter amendment allowing administrative citations; several districts also have levy questions.

Elections Local Government Education

Minnesota ends Housing Stabilization Services after fraud; $100M paid to 700+ providers last year

Nov 02 Breaking TC 3

Minnesota is ending its Medicaid-funded Housing Stabilization Services program effective Oct. 31 amid FBI probes and fraud allegations, with CMS approving the termination; Temporary DHS Commissioner Shireen Gandhi said the agency is working to connect participants to other services and is coordinating with counties, tribes and managed care organizations to redirect those affected. The program paid more than $100 million last year to over 700 providers — far above the original $2.6 million estimate — prompting DHS to say it "cannot afford to wait" and to pledge a redesign with the Legislature, providers, community partners and federal officials, even as tribal leaders called the cancellation an overreaction and Gov. Tim Walz ordered a third‑party audit of 14 high‑risk Medicaid services, including HSS.

Health Housing Local Government

Isanti man gets 4 years in Forest Lake teen kidnapping

Nov 02 Breaking TC 1

Shawn Patrick Bellach, 39, of Dalbo was sentenced Friday to four years in prison after pleading guilty to kidnapping and second-degree criminal sexual conduct in a case involving a Forest Lake teen who was found living with him in a tent near Grasston in July 2023. The Tenth Judicial District Court imposed four years on each count to run concurrently, credited 25 days served, dismissed three other charges under an August plea deal, and ordered lifetime predatory‑offender registration.

Legal Public Safety

Where Minneapolis mayoral frontrunners stand on issues

Nov 01 TC 1

With Minneapolis voters heading to the polls Tuesday, the Star Tribune details where the four leading mayoral candidates — Jacob Frey, Omar Fateh, DeWayne Davis and Jazz Hampton — stand on downtown revival, public safety, housing and homelessness. The report outlines shared support for a more mixed‑use downtown and key differences, including Frey’s backing to move bus routes off Nicollet Mall, Fateh’s push to expand Vibrant Storefronts and partner with the Downtown Council, Davis’ focus on smaller leasable spaces, tax incentives and ‘third spaces,’ and Hampton’s call to streamline permitting/inspections and strengthen walkable neighborhood connections.

Elections Local Government

St. Paul decertifies Westminster Junction TIF early

Nov 01 Breaking TC 1

The St. Paul Port Authority board voted Monday to decertify the 26-year Westminster Junction TIF redevelopment district five years early, returning the East Side business center to the full tax rolls after outperforming projections. The 25-acre site along Phalen Boulevard and Cayuga Street has grown from a blighted rail yard with about 50 jobs to 15 companies with 913 jobs, lifting annual property taxes from $138,000 to $2.6 million, which officials say will help reduce the city’s levy.

Local Government Business & Economy

Half of Skyline Tower residents return; east tower reopens, west tower under repair

Nov 01 Breaking TC 6

Of the 773 residents evacuated after a small Sunday fire that began on the 12th floor and activated sprinklers on multiple floors—causing a building-wide power outage that knocked out heat, water, fire alarms and elevators—all 141 households in the east tower had returned by Friday, while the west tower remains closed for repairs because of significant sprinkler water damage. St. Paul inspectors certified the building structurally sound, no injuries were reported, the fire is under investigation with no signs of suspicious activity, and CommonBond and the city continue to coordinate housing, donations and assistance for displaced residents.

Utilities Local Government Housing

White Bear Lake stabbing nets 7½-year sentence

Nov 01 Breaking TC 1

Ramsey County District Court on Oct. 31, 2025 sentenced 20-year-old Jeffrey Thomas Rice to 90 months in prison for repeatedly stabbing 22-year-old Mason Fike during a July 27, 2024 confrontation on Southwood Drive in White Bear Lake, after Rice pled guilty to first-degree assault. An attempted murder charge was dismissed under the August plea agreement; Fike’s victim-impact statement detailed life-threatening injuries as police records describe Rice fleeing before being stopped and a pocketknife recovered nearby.

Legal Public Safety

FDA limits fluoride supplements for children

Oct 31 Breaking TC 1

The FDA on Oct. 31 restricted pediatric fluoride supplements nationwide, saying they are no longer recommended for children under 3 and for older children unless they face serious tooth‑decay risk, and warned four companies not to market outside these limits. The agency released a new analysis finding limited dental benefits and potential risks such as gut microbiome effects, weight gain, and cognition, and sent a provider advisory; toothpaste, mouthwash, and in‑office treatments are unaffected. The policy applies to Twin Cities families and clinicians, especially in areas without fluoridated water.

Health Legal

Tristen Leritz charged in Vadnais Heights sexual assault; DNA match, confession cited

Oct 31 Breaking TC 4

Tristen Alan Leritz, 21, of White Bear Township was arrested Oct. 30 on the 5100 block of Mead Road and charged Oct. 31 in Ramsey County with one count of criminal sexual conduct after a woman was tackled and assaulted near Centerville Road and Pond View Court in Vadnais Heights. Authorities say a hospital sexual-assault exam produced DNA matching Leritz, he confessed when confronted and admitted ambushing the victim after riding ahead on a bicycle, and investigators credited the victim’s actions (knocking off his glasses, biting his hand), community tips and BCA crime-lab processing for the arrest; he faces up to 30 years and has a prior 2024 motor-vehicle theft conviction and a pending 2025 burglary case.

Legal Public Safety

Judge blocks citizenship proof on federal voter form

Oct 31 Breaking TC 1

U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly ruled Oct. 31 that President Trump cannot require documentary proof of citizenship on the federal voter registration form, finding the directive unconstitutional and outside presidential authority. The decision grants partial summary judgment to the DNC and civil-rights groups and permanently bars the U.S. Election Assistance Commission from adding the requirement, while other challenges to Trump’s elections order — including a mailed-ballot receipt-by-Election-Day mandate — continue.

Elections Legal

CDC links Sam’s Club greens powder to salmonella

Oct 31 Breaking TC 1

Federal officials say Member’s Mark Super Greens Powder Supplements sold at Sam’s Club and online are linked to at least 11 salmonella illnesses, including three hospitalizations, in cases reported from May to September. The CDC and FDA report the product has been pulled after contamination was traced to a single lot of organic moringa leaf powder imported from Vallon Farm Direct in India; consumers should throw it away or return it for a refund.

Health Public Safety

Pioneer Acquisitions buys two Washington Square towers

Oct 31 Breaking TC 1

Pioneer Acquisitions has purchased the 100 and 111 Washington Square office buildings in downtown Minneapolis, marking the investor’s first acquisition in the Twin Cities. The Business Journal reports the deal signals the company’s entry into the local office market and suggests more acquisitions may follow.

Business & Economy

U.S. Ed Dept furloughs hit OCR, special ed

Oct 31 Dev TC 2

Furloughs tied to the government shutdown have hit Education Department offices that oversee special education and civil‑rights enforcement (OCR), coming after staffing at the department fell from about 4,100 to roughly 2,400 since the Trump administration began and leaving only about 330 employees deemed “essential.” The cuts have halted new grants and frozen competitions, slowed reimbursements—raising concerns about school‑meal reimbursements and Head Start funding—while Pell Grants and FAFSA processing have continued.

Government/Regulatory Education Local Government

Pro‑Frey PACs outspend Fateh allies in Mpls

Oct 31 TC 1

Campaign‑finance reports through Oct. 20 show PACs aligned with Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and his allies have raised about $1.6 million, in addition to nearly $1 million raised by Frey’s campaign, far outpacing groups backing state Sen. Omar Fateh and his allies ahead of the Nov. 4 election. The largest PAC, All of Minneapolis, has raised $1.2 million, while We Love Minneapolis has raised $309,000 and transferred $130,000 to Thrive MPLS, as both sides mobilize for the mayoral and 13 council races.

Elections Local Government

Judge dismisses complaint over St. Paul ‘Vote Yes’ mailer

Oct 31 Breaking TC 1

An administrative law judge with the Minnesota Court of Administrative Hearings rejected an Oct. 27 complaint by Peter Butler against Rick Varco, treasurer of the 'Vote Yes for a Fairer St. Paul' campaign, alleging a false claim of St. Paul DFL support on a charter‑amendment mailer. Judge James LaFave found no prima facie evidence that Varco made or disseminated the allegedly false statement, and noted the complaint did not tie him to creating the mailer’s content; a separate Sept. 28 meeting convened by the Ramsey County DFL backed both the school levy and administrative‑citations charter question.

Legal Elections

Ex-Minneapolis council member Espejel charged with 3rd-degree DWI refusal; $6K bond, Nov. 13 hearing

Oct 31 Breaking TC 3

Former Minneapolis City Council member Espejel was charged with third-degree DWI for refusing a breath test (and a related fourth-degree DWI for driving under the influence) after a crash just before 11:15 p.m. on the 300 block of 4th Street South near City Hall, during which police say she recorded officers, refused to provide license/insurance, put her Honda CR‑V in drive and attempted to leave before officers stopped the vehicle. Officers reported slurred speech, bloodshot eyes and inability to complete sobriety tests; Espejel refused a breath test at the station, was released on $6,000 bond and is due in court Nov. 13, 2025.

Legal Public Safety

FDA: 580,000 prazosin bottles recalled for nitrosamines

Oct 31 Breaking TC 1

The FDA says Teva Pharmaceuticals USA and Amerisource Health Services voluntarily recalled more than 580,000 bottles of prazosin hydrochloride capsules nationwide earlier this month due to potential nitrosamine impurities, which are considered possibly cancer‑causing. The agency classified the affected lots as Class II risk; prazosin is used to treat high blood pressure and sometimes PTSD‑related nightmares, and Twin Cities patients are advised to check their medication and consult pharmacists or physicians.

Health Government/Regulatory

St. Paul charges Eh Doe Soe; off-duty officer halted assault on 13-year-old

Oct 31 Breaking TC 2

St. Paul police arrested Eh Doe Soe on Oct. 3 and charged him after an off-duty officer intervened Sept. 30 to stop an attempted sexual assault of a 13-year-old on the Earl St. and York Ave. overpass above Phalen Boulevard. Authorities say a second related encounter occurred Oct. 2 near Phalen Boulevard and Johnson Parkway when the suspect approached the girl on a bicycle, ditched the bike and fled into nearby woods; bail was set at $70,000, his first court date is Nov. 12, and records show a Dec. 2023 fifth-degree criminal sexual conduct conviction for lewd conduct before children.

Legal Public Safety

Minnesota clarifies Medicaid audit: only flagged claims paused up to 90 days; Optum reviewing

Oct 31 Dev TC 6

Gov. Tim Walz ordered a third‑party audit of Medicaid billing across 14 designated “high‑risk” services, contracting Optum to run analytics and flag anomalous claims for DHS review — a move funded in the 2025 session and prompted in part by recent federal fraud prosecutions. DHS clarified it is not withholding all payments but will pause only Optum‑flagged claims for up to 90 days for prepayment review (and possible denial if found fraudulent), saying it will still meet federal 90‑day payment rules, a step that providers warn could destabilize care and has drawn mixed political reactions.

Health Local Government

MSP starts weekly food aid for unpaid feds

Oct 31 Dev TC 2

Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport has launched a weekly food aid program for unpaid federal workers affected by the government shutdown. AFGE leader and MSP TSA agent Neal Gosman said TSA employees took home donated food boxes after their shifts, and AFGE representative Mark Johnson said many workers cannot pay rent due Nov. 1 and face $50/day late fees.

Health Public Safety Business & Economy

MN Senate hears shutdown’s toll on TSA, WIC

Oct 31 Dev TC 1

At an Oct. 30 hearing of the Minnesota Senate’s Subcommittee on Federal Impacts, union leaders said MSP TSA agents are missing rent and taking home donated food boxes, while advocates warned Minnesota’s WIC funds (about $9M/month) will last only through the third week of November. State officials cited diminished communication with USDA and Attorney General Keith Ellison said a judge is expected to rule soon in the 25‑state lawsuit seeking to restore SNAP during the shutdown.

Local Government Health Business & Economy

St. Paul administrative citations on ballot: full question, backers, and how it would work

Oct 31 Dev TC 2

Ordinance Ord 25-2, on the St. Paul ballot, would amend the city charter to authorize administrative citations, and city leaders — including Mayor Carter, Rep. Kaohly Her, all seven council members, the Charter Commission and a broad coalition of labor, faith and community groups — have urged residents to vote “yes.” The charter change itself sets no fine amounts or covered violations (those would be adopted later through separate ordinances after public hearings for roughly 15 enforcement areas such as animal control, neglected construction, landlord code/rent issues, illegal sewer discharges and employer wage/sick‑time violations); critics warn fines could become a “tax on the poor” or a revenue source, the measure was put on the ballot after a petition by former City Hall employee Peter Butler, and some mayoral candidates (Yan Chen, Mike Hilborn) say they will vote no while Kaohly Her supports it.

Local Government Elections

Judge dismisses Macalester animal-testing lawsuit by alum

Oct 31 Dev TC 2

A judge dismissed an alum’s animal‑welfare lawsuit against Macalester College, throwing out two of three counts without prejudice and prompting plaintiff Dr. Neal Barnard to say he plans to refile; Judge Karen Janisch found Barnard had conducted an independent investigation and could not reasonably rely on alleged misrepresentations, and noted the college had made no promise to change its practices. Macalester says its psychology program still uses operant‑conditioning "Skinner box" experiments and about 100 rats a year (many used in multiple activities and living 2–3 years) that are euthanized by an experienced technician with carbon dioxide, and President Suzanne Rivera said the ruling affirms academic freedom and prevents outside groups from dictating curriculum.

Legal Education

MPD orders review and retraining after Willard-Hay domestic-violence killing

Oct 31 Breaking TC 6

After Mariah Samuels was fatally shot in her Willard‑Hay home on Sept. 14 — allegedly by ex‑boyfriend David Wright, who has been arrested and charged with second‑degree murder and was under a court order to stay away — reviews found MPD failed to assign an investigator after an August assault despite a risk assessment, witness statement and surveillance video, and body‑camera footage contradicted an officer’s report. Chief Brian O’Hara has ordered a thorough review and department‑wide retraining on domestic‑violence protocols to be completed by the end of 2025 amid criticism over understaffing in the domestic assault unit, numerous unassigned “gone on arrival” cases, City Council demands and public rallies by the victim’s family.

Public Safety Legal Local Government

St. Paul chiefs warn pay gaps risk retention

Oct 30 TC 1

St. Paul Police Chief Axel Henry and Fire Chief Butch Inks say they now earn less than their potential pensions and below market for their roles, as the city raised non‑union manager salary ranges by 9% in Dec. 2024 but has not moved managers within those ranges pending union negotiations. Henry earns $207,688 and Inks $201,968, while the new top ranges would be $226,387 (police) and $220,147 (fire); Henry cites a city job study suggesting about $256,000 as market. Mayor Melvin Carter acknowledges budget pressures — including a $7.5M lawsuit payout, cyberattack costs, and threatened federal funding — and proposed limited raises as top police and fire staff consider unionizing.

Local Government Public Safety

Judge: FDA mifepristone limits unlawful; no change yet

Oct 30 Breaking TC 1

U.S. District Judge Jill Otake in Hawaii ruled Oct. 30 that the FDA violated the Administrative Procedure Act by failing to adequately justify its 2023 decision to keep special REMS restrictions on mifepristone, used for abortion and miscarriage care. The court ordered FDA to reconsider evidence it allegedly disregarded, but left current restrictions in place for now; the ACLU brought the case and says the limits burden access, while DOJ did not immediately comment.

Legal Health

CDC: Listeria in pasta kills six

Oct 30 Dev TC 1

The CDC says a listeria outbreak tied to recalled pre‑cooked pasta meals has grown to 6 deaths and 27 illnesses in 18 states, with the latest case on Oct. 16. The outbreak is linked to pasta from Nate’s Fine Foods (Roseville, Calif.) used in heat‑and‑eat meals made by FreshRealm and sold at national retailers including Trader Joe’s and Walmart; multiple specific products and best‑by dates have been recalled, and consumers are urged to discard or return affected items.

Health Public Safety

Alleged mass shooter charged in Hennepin jail escape bid

Oct 30 Breaking TC 2

Around 4:17 p.m. at the Hennepin County jail, alleged mass shooter Ortley pushed past a professional visitor in the visiting area, grabbed a wall-mounted fire extinguisher, used its base to break an exit door near public elevators and sprayed deputies with its contents. Five deputies were evaluated at HCMC for chemical exposure to swollen, burning eyes, and Ortley is charged with five counts of assault, one count of property damage and one count of attempting to flee custody after he reportedly lay down and shouted, "I'm done! I'm done! Lock me up!"

Legal Public Safety

CBP mandates facial scans for non-citizen travelers

Oct 30 Breaking TC 1

The Department of Homeland Security said U.S. Customs and Border Protection will require facial recognition and photo capture for all non‑U.S. citizens, including green‑card holders, at all ports of entry and departure starting Dec. 26, 2025. The Federal Register rule expands CBP’s existing program to land, sea, and air locations, authorizes biometric capture for children under 14 and adults over 79, and aims to combat document fraud and enhance border security.

Government/Regulatory Transit & Infrastructure Technology

US penny mint halt triggers shortages

Oct 30 Dev TC 1

AP reports the U.S. stopped producing pennies in mid‑2025 under President Trump, and with the last coins minted in June and distributed by August, banks are now rationing pennies and retailers nationwide are running out as the holiday season approaches. The Treasury placed its last planchet order in May; 2024 saw 3.23 billion pennies minted even as each cost 3.7 cents to make, and merchants are asking for exact change or rounding to avoid legal exposure—operational shifts that will affect Twin Cities cash transactions.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

Walz backs Frey in Minneapolis mayor race

Oct 30 TC 1

Days before the Nov. 4 election, Gov. Tim Walz endorsed incumbent Jacob Frey in Minneapolis’s 15‑candidate mayoral race, which uses ranked‑choice voting allowing voters to select up to three choices. The article identifies four frontrunners — Frey, Sen. Omar Fateh, Rev. DeWayne Davis and Jazz Hampton — outlines their public‑safety and wage positions, and notes the DFL revoked its earlier endorsement of Fateh after internal disputes.

Elections Local Government

After Trump–Xi meeting, China says it will work with U.S. on TikTok; no ownership deal yet

Oct 30 Breaking TC 5

After the Trump–Xi meeting, China’s Commerce Ministry said it would work with the U.S. to resolve TikTok-related issues but provided no details and said no ownership agreement was reached. That statement contrasts with U.S. reports — including Trump saying Xi approved a proposed U.S. ownership deal, the White House suggesting the transaction could be finalized in South Korea, and earlier plans for Oracle to manage TikTok’s U.S. algorithm — as negotiations continue under U.S. divestiture requirements.

Business & Economy Technology Legal

Shutdown halts Medicare telehealth waivers

Oct 30 Dev TC 1

The federal shutdown prevented Congress from extending pandemic‑era Medicare telehealth flexibilities before their Sept. 30 expiration, temporarily halting reimbursement for many home‑based virtual visits. Providers are canceling or weighing unreimbursed appointments, and millions of Medicare fee‑for‑service patients nationwide — including Twin Cities seniors who cannot easily travel — are losing access to remote care while the shutdown continues.

Health Government/Regulatory

Cargill cuts 80 jobs at Minnetonka headquarters

Oct 30 Breaking TC 1

Cargill is laying off 80 employees at its Minnetonka headquarters, the company confirmed Oct. 30, 2025, citing a sales decline. The move affects corporate roles at the global agribusiness’s Twin Cities base and follows softer revenue performance.

Business & Economy

Trump, Xi deal trims China tariffs

Oct 30 Breaking TC 1

President Donald Trump said Thursday after a 100‑minute meeting with China’s Xi Jinping in Busan that the U.S. will reduce tariffs on Chinese goods, lowering one tranche tied to fentanyl-chemical sales from 20% to 10% and cutting the combined rate from 57% to 47%. China agreed to allow rare earth exports and resume U.S. soybean purchases, and Trump said Nvidia will hold talks on advanced chip exports as both sides work toward a trade deal.

Business & Economy Technology

Osseo schools settle $61.5K MDHR harassment case

Oct 30 TC 1

The Minnesota Department of Human Rights announced Oct. 28, 2025 a settlement with a former Osseo Area Schools student who, at age 9, was sexually harassed by an assistant principal; documents say the district knew of the conduct and did not act until after the family withdrew the student in March 2022. The district issued a written reprimand in June 2022 and the administrator resigned that August; the student’s parents filed an MDHR complaint in September 2022, and the district agreed in July 2025 to pay $61,500 while denying wrongdoing and citing increased staff training.

Education Legal

St. Paul probes suspected carport arson

Oct 30 Dev TC 1

St. Paul police are investigating a suspected arson that ignited around 5:50 a.m. Oct. 29 at a carport, destroying at least three vehicles; surveillance video shows people near the structure moments before the fire. A property manager said the group appeared to have a lookout, and police are examining possible links to a similar early‑morning garage fire last week on Birmingham Street; no arrests have been made and investigators are seeking tips.

Public Safety Legal

Sheriffs warn of SNAP 'emergency relief' text scams amid shutdown (now includes Anoka County)

Oct 29 Breaking TC 2

Scammers are sending fraudulent text messages to Minnesota SNAP recipients offering fake $1,000 "emergency relief," with some messages using the phrase "Food Debit Emergency Relief" and appearing amid a shutdown. The Anoka County Sheriff’s Office warned about the scam on X, noting roughly 440,000 Minnesotans rely on SNAP and may be targeted.

Public Safety Local Government Government

Oak Park Heights OKs Mango Cannabis at Joseph’s

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

The Oak Park Heights City Council unanimously approved a conditional-use permit Tuesday for Mango Cannabis to occupy the entire Joseph’s restaurant building at 14608 60th St. N. City officials said Joseph’s plans to relocate nearby, while applicants ABJKM Holdings and Boundary Waters Capital also seek a Stillwater site as both cities raise caps to four cannabis retailers. The Hwy. 36 corridor is drawing interest due to Wisconsin’s cannabis ban, and Oak Park Heights previously approved Oak Park Heights Canna for a 2026 opening.

Local Government Business & Economy

Senate votes to block Trump’s Canada tariffs

Oct 29 Dev TC 1

The U.S. Senate on Wednesday, Oct. 29, held a vote on a resolution to nullify President Trump’s tariffs on Canadian imports by terminating the national emergencies underpinning them. Led by Sen. Tim Kaine and joined by some Republicans including Sen. Rand Paul, the effort spotlights GOP divisions even as House GOP rules can block a vote there and the White House could veto. The action comes amid active U.S.–Asia trade talks and a tense U.S.–Canada dispute with potential consumer price impacts for Twin Cities residents.

Business & Economy Government & Politics

University of Minnesota ends hosting high school graduations

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

The University of Minnesota said this week it will no longer host high school commencement ceremonies at any campus venue, ending more than 20 events each spring at 3M Arena at Mariucci and other sites. Citing an unsustainable strain on resources—and following heightened security after a May 30 shooting outside a graduation—the decision leaves Twin Cities districts that relied on Mariucci’s 6,000+ indoor capacity scrambling to secure new locations, adjust dates, or implement ticketing.

Education Local Government

Minnesota pauses payments for 14 Medicaid services

Oct 29 Breaking TC 3

Gov. Tim Walz has paused payments for 14 "high‑risk" Medicaid services and ordered a state-contracted audit of Medicaid billing — funded through legislative appropriations — after suspected fraud tied to recent federal prosecutions. The administration says vendor Optum will flag suspicious claims for DHS verification and referral to the DHS Office of Inspector General, and is adding measures such as enhanced fingerprint checks and unannounced visits, prompting responses from provider groups, Republican lawmakers and federal prosecutors calling for accountability.

Local Government Health

St. Paul man charged in Pride, anti‑Trump vandalism; phone evidence shows address list, rally link

Oct 29 Breaking TC 2

A St. Paul man was charged after authorities allege he vandalized LGBT Pride flags and anti‑Trump signs in a spree that also included broken windows at two businesses and a school. Police say a seized cellphone contained GPS‑tagged photos tying him to vandalism sites and a June 4 note listing 69 addresses (some later damaged), and that he described himself in texts as a “right‑wing libertarian,” attended the June 14 “No Kings” Capitol rally with a Trump sign, installed the Neighbors app and shared a Ring video link before a July 2 traffic stop and search recovered clothing matching surveillance; charges were issued by summons and his first court date is Nov. 13.

Legal Public Safety

Fed cuts benchmark rate to about 3.9%

Oct 29 Breaking TC 2

The Federal Reserve made its second rate cut of 2025, trimming the benchmark to about 3.9%. Consumers should expect top high‑yield savings rates to drift lower as banks pare offerings, mortgage rates—which recently fell to their lowest in over a year—may decline further while auto‑loan rates are likely to ease only slowly; the Fed projects another cut before year‑end and advisers say borrowers may want to consider refinancing or consolidating debt as rates fall.

Consumer Business & Economy Housing

FDA proposes streamlined biosimilar testing

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

The FDA released draft guidance on Oct. 29, 2025 to simplify studies for biosimilar versions of biologic drugs, aiming to remove what it calls unnecessary, resource‑intensive clinical comparisons. The proposal opens a 60‑day public comment period, with non‑binding final guidance expected in three to six months, and federal officials say the change is intended to spur competition, lower prices, and speed access to treatments such as those for autoimmune disease and cancer.

Health Business & Economy

Sun Country adds MSP–Tulsa route for 2026

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis-based Sun Country Airlines will launch a new route between Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) and Tulsa, Oklahoma, and increase frequencies to other coastal destinations as part of its summer 2026 schedule. The expansion adds a new nonstop option for Twin Cities travelers and boosts flights to popular coastal markets during the peak summer season.

Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

United Properties plans 36-acre Newport project

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

United Properties is proposing a 36-acre development in Newport, Washington County, that would include industrial buildings, apartments and a Kwik Trip, according to a report published Oct. 29, 2025. The project would add new housing and commercial uses in the east‑metro suburb, with city review and approvals expected as the plan advances.

Business & Economy Housing

Microsoft Azure outage disrupts key services

Oct 29 Dev TC 1

Microsoft reported on Oct. 29 that issues with its Azure Front Door content delivery network are causing access problems to Azure and services like Office 365, Minecraft, Xbox Live and Copilot. The company says it is investigating and mitigating; outage reports surged on Downdetector, and Microsoft acknowledged the incident on its status page and social media. The disruption could affect Twin Cities businesses and consumers that rely on Microsoft cloud services.

Technology Transit & Infrastructure

Man admits killing mother in Minneapolis Uptown

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

A Minneapolis man admitted to killing his mother in the city’s Uptown neighborhood, according to court records cited by the Star Tribune. The victim had twice sought court protection from him before the homicide; authorities are proceeding with the case as investigators and prosecutors continue their work.

Public Safety Legal

Francisco Partners to acquire Jamf for $2.2B

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

Private equity firm Francisco Partners will buy Minneapolis-based Apple device‑management software maker Jamf in a $2.2 billion deal announced Oct. 29, 2025. Jamf, which went public in 2020 at $26 per share, is a prominent Twin Cities tech employer; the transaction would transfer ownership of the company, with further details on closing and any local impacts not yet disclosed.

Business & Economy Technology

39 AGs urge Congress to ban intoxicating hemp

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison joined 38 other state attorneys general in a letter asking Congress to ban intoxicating hemp products such as delta‑8 and delta‑10 THC by closing federal loopholes. The AGs cite consumer‑safety concerns and urge changes to federal law that allowed psychoactive products to proliferate since the 2018 Farm Bill. Any ban would immediately affect Twin Cities retailers and consumers who buy hemp‑derived THC products.

Legal Health Business & Economy

Hennepin Ave in Uptown reopens Friday after $30M, 1.5‑year rebuild

Oct 29 Breaking TC 2

Hennepin Avenue in Uptown Minneapolis reopens Friday after roughly 1.5 years of reconstruction between Lake Street and Douglas Avenue, a project that topped $30 million and added protected bike lanes, wider sidewalks and new bus shelters. Businesses along the corridor — some of which reported steep revenue losses (Autopia said a 60% drop) and closures such as Pizza Shark while the Uptown Art Fair relocated — received support from the city, which awarded grants to 36 businesses between Franklin and W. 36th Street through its business technical assistance program over the past two years.

Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

Wayzata realtor charged in $397K tax case

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota Department of Revenue says Wayzata real estate owner Kevin Patrick Mullen, 42, has been charged in Hennepin County with five felony counts of failing to file individual tax returns and five felony counts of willfully failing to pay income tax for 2019–2023, alleging about $397,000 is owed. Court documents say Mullen acknowledged missing returns in Dec. 2024, filed some in Feb. 2025, and has a first court appearance set for Nov. 12; his income came through Ideal Properties and Investments LLC, and investigators cite prior contacts about tax debts and additional unfiled years back to 2008.

Legal Business & Economy

Minnesota Capitol to add 20 officers, threats investigator as threats surge

Oct 29 Breaking TC 2

Facing a surge in threats — roughly 50 reported in under 10 months this year, with 13 leading to charges and on pace to triple 2024’s 19 — Minnesota’s Capitol will add 20 security officers (training begins mid‑ to late‑November) and a dedicated threats investigator by year‑end. Since August all but four public entrances have been closed, further enhancements and a legislative vote on additional security changes are expected in February, while the building still lacks metal detectors and allows firearms, a policy Republicans are not backing to change.

Local Government Public Safety

Crystal daycare teacher charged in child slap

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

Javell Lena Cooper, 24, of Coon Rapids, has been charged in Hennepin County with two counts of malicious punishment of a child after surveillance video allegedly showed her slapping a 3-year-old’s ear at a church-based daycare in Crystal. The incident occurred July 25, 2025, at a facility on the 5000 block of West Broadway; the child’s parent reported finding their child crying, and later the family and church provided video to police. The complaint also notes the child previously came home with ear bruising about a year earlier.

Public Safety Legal

Senate rejects Trump tariffs on Brazil

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

The U.S. Senate voted in bipartisan fashion on Oct. 28, 2025, to reject the Trump administration’s proposed tariffs on Brazilian imports, a move that comes amid spiking coffee prices. The decision averts new duties that could have further increased consumer costs in the Twin Cities and nationwide; details of next steps now shift back to the administration and trade agencies.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

Judge blocks federal-worker layoffs during shutdown, citing political retribution

Oct 29 Dev TC 2

A judge has extended an order barring the Trump administration from carrying out shutdown-related federal-worker layoffs, finding the planned firings amounted to political retribution. The ruling reinforces protections for federal employees while the government funding lapse continues.

Government Legal Local Government

St. Paul man sentenced in neighbor’s fatal stabbing

Oct 28 Breaking TC 1

A 65-year-old St. Paul man was sentenced for fatally stabbing his 70-year-old apartment neighbor during a dispute over money, according to a report on Oct. 28, 2025. The case stems from a confrontation inside a St. Paul apartment building that ended in the neighbor’s death; sentencing concludes the criminal proceedings against the defendant.

Legal Public Safety

Wisconsin man killed in I-94 Afton crash

Oct 28 Breaking TC 1

A Wisconsin man died in a two‑vehicle crash on Interstate 94 in Afton, Minnesota, on Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025. The collision occurred in Washington County on the east‑metro interstate corridor; authorities are investigating the cause and have not yet released further details.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Judge blocks funding cuts over gender‑diversity sex ed

Oct 28 Breaking TC 1

A federal judge issued an injunction blocking the Trump administration from pulling federal funding from sex‑education programs that include instruction on gender diversity. Announced Oct. 28, 2025, the ruling preserves funding while litigation proceeds and could affect Twin Cities school districts and nonprofits that rely on federal grants for sex‑education programming.

Legal Education

Hwy 65 closed after bridge strike in Spring Lake Park

Oct 28 Breaking TC 1

MnDOT closed Highway 65 in both directions between Highway 10 and 85th Avenue NE in Spring Lake Park on Tuesday after a semi hauling a metal pedestrian bridge struck the County Road 10 bridge deck around 11:25 a.m. The Minnesota State Patrol says the impact disconnected the trailer, which was then hit by another vehicle; no injuries were reported. The closure was announced just before noon with an estimated reopening by 4 p.m.

Transit & Infrastructure Public Safety

Target to eliminate 1,800 corporate jobs (8%)

Oct 28 Breaking TC 4

Target will eliminate about 1,800 corporate jobs — roughly 8% of its corporate workforce — by laying off about 1,000 employees and closing about 800 open roles, with impacted staff to be notified Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025, and told to work from home next week. The cuts, concentrated at Target’s Minneapolis headquarters and not affecting in‑store associates, are described as a restructuring to simplify decision‑making and move faster rather than primarily to cut costs; those laid off will receive pay and benefits through Jan. 3 plus severance and support services.

Employment Business & Economy

MN Supreme Court appeal delays Deshaun Hill retrial

Oct 28 Dev TC 1

The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office has asked the Minnesota Supreme Court to allow use of a videotaped, post-Miranda interrogation of Cody Fohrenkam in the 2022 killing of Minneapolis North High student Deshaun Hill Jr., delaying a retrial that was set to begin next week. The Court of Appeals overturned Fohrenkam’s prior conviction and suppressed the interview as the product of unlawful detention; prosecutors now seek high‑court review to admit the video at the new trial.

Legal Public Safety

Court narrows Minneapolis duty to defend officers

Oct 28 Breaking TC 1

A Minnesota court ruled Tuesday that the City of Minneapolis is not obligated to provide a legal defense to some police officers being sued over their conduct during the 2020 George Floyd protests. The decision clarifies when the city’s duty to defend applies, indicating certain alleged actions fall outside what Minneapolis must cover and potentially reducing taxpayer exposure in ongoing civil cases.

Legal Local Government

Eastside Food Co-op restores operations after rooftop copper theft

Oct 27 Breaking TC 2

A rooftop copper theft knocked out refrigeration at the Eastside Food Co-op, leaving shelves bare and causing a large loss of food that management called a “massive hit.” The co‑op says it has largely bounced back, with affected departments reopened and products restocked as normal operations are restored.

Business & Economy Public Safety

Cigna to drop drug rebates in many private plans

Oct 27 Breaking TC 1

Cigna said Oct. 27, 2025 it will end drug manufacturer rebates in many private health plans, altering pharmacy benefit design for employers and members nationwide, including in the Twin Cities. The move affects plans administered by its pharmacy benefit operations; the company did not immediately specify which plans or the effective date.

Health Business & Economy

Edina police seek Hwy 169 shooting suspect

Oct 27 Dev TC 1

Edina police are searching for a man who fired a shot at a woman’s SUV on northbound Highway 169 just north of I‑494 around 7 a.m. on Oct. 11; no one was injured. On Oct. 27, police released photos of the suspect’s older sedan with tinted windows and asked anyone with information to email EdinaPoliceTips@EdinaMN.gov after the victim reported the sedan was weaving and the driver pointed a gun and fired as she passed.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Judge lets Kirk murder suspect wear street clothes

Oct 27 Dev TC 1

A Twin Cities district court judge granted a defense request allowing the suspect in the killing of Charlie Kirk to appear in street clothes and without visible restraints during court proceedings, citing the case’s 'extraordinary' public attention. The order, issued Oct. 27, aims to mitigate potential juror prejudice and security concerns as the high‑profile case proceeds.

Legal Public Safety

Minneapolis clears 234 OPCR misconduct cases backlog

Oct 27 Breaking TC 1

The Minneapolis Office of Police Conduct Review said Monday, Oct. 27, 2025, it completed investigative work on 234 backlogged police‑misconduct complaints received on or before May 23, 2024, after hiring/reassigning 12 staff, adding supervisors, and restructuring investigations. Cases now move to panel review and a final decision by the police chief, and OPCR will focus on newer complaints as the city works toward compliance with its Minnesota Department of Human Rights settlement agreement.

Local Government Public Safety

Suicidal man shuts Highway 61 in Forest Lake

Oct 27 Breaking TC 1

Forest Lake police closed Highway 61 late Sunday after a man threatening suicide prompted an emergency response on the roadway. Officers shut the highway to protect the public and manage the situation in Forest Lake, Washington County; the report details how police handled the incident.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

St. Paul man charged over TikTok bounty on AG

Oct 27 Breaking TC 1

Federal prosecutors charged St. Paul resident Tyler Maxon Avalos in October 2025 with making an online threat after a TikTok post offered a $45,000 'dead or alive (preferably dead)' bounty on U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi. Investigators say they traced the 'Wacko' account to Avalos via a Samsung phone and IP address at his Hyacinth Avenue West apartment; he was arrested and released on recognizance, and the complaint includes screenshots of the post.

Legal Public Safety

Nov. 4 voting guide for Twin Cities

Oct 27 TC 1

FOX 9 outlines what’s on 2025 ballots and how/where to vote ahead of Minnesota’s Nov. 4 municipal and school board elections, including Minneapolis and St. Paul mayoral races and St. Paul’s ballot question. The guide details polling hours (most 7 a.m.–8 p.m., but metro polling places in municipal/school-only elections may open as late as 10 a.m.), early in‑person voting through Nov. 3, absentee ballot rules, and how to find polling places and register via mnvotes.org.

Elections Local Government

MAC Chair Rick King to retire

Oct 26 Breaking TC 1

Rick King, chair of the Metropolitan Airports Commission, announced his retirement on Oct. 26, 2025. The MAC oversees Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport and several reliever airports, making the leadership change significant for the Twin Cities’ primary aviation infrastructure; the report did not immediately specify timing or succession details.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

32 newly planted trees cut along Shepard Road

Oct 26 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul Parks and Recreation says 32 recently planted trees were found cut a few feet above the ground along Shepard Road south of the Smith Avenue High Bridge on Friday, Oct. 24. The trees were planted last fall with nonprofit partner Tree Trust; officials are determining replacement options but no funding source is identified. Police are investigating, and the city notes a similar November 2024 incident in the same area destroyed 60 trees, causing roughly $40,000 in damage.

Public Safety Environment

Attempted St. Paul carjacking sparks gunfire, injures one

Oct 26 Breaking TC 1

An attempted carjacking in St. Paul on Friday night escalated to gunfire, leaving one person injured, according to an initial report. Police are investigating; details about suspects or arrests were not immediately available.

Public Safety

Delta flight to Portland aborts MSP takeoff after aircraft fire

Oct 26 Breaking TC 2

A Delta Air Lines flight bound for Portland aborted its takeoff at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport after flames were seen shooting from an engine. Authorities and reports described the incident as an "aircraft fire."

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Afton, William O’Brien parks closed for hunts

Oct 25 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota DNR will close Afton State Park and William O’Brien State Park in Washington County to the public for a weekend deer hunt. The temporary closures are intended to facilitate the controlled hunt and maintain visitor safety, with normal access resuming after the weekend.

Public Safety Environment

USCIS details $100K H‑1B fee: applies to overseas applicants; renewals exempt

Oct 25 Breaking TC 3

USCIS says a $100,000 fee will apply to H‑1B petitions filed on or after Sept. 21, 2025 for beneficiaries outside the U.S. who do not already hold a valid H‑1B visa, while exemptions include amendments, changes of status, extensions of stay and petitions tied to existing valid H‑1Bs submitted before Sept. 21, 2025; F‑1 graduates changing status inside the U.S. and current H‑1B holders traveling abroad are likewise not subject to the fee. The agency has set up an online portal for paying the fee, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has filed a major legal challenge, and employers—particularly Minnesota schools, retail and health‑care providers—warn of higher costs, potential hiring delays and adjusted recruiting plans.

Business & Economy Legal Government/Regulatory

DHS chief says ‘dozens’ of new ICE agents coming to Minnesota; ‘No Trump No Troops’ Capitol rally set for Saturday

Oct 25 Breaking TC 5

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem visited the Twin Cities and held a press conference at Fort Snelling, saying Minnesota will see “dozens” of new ICE agents as part of a national expansion, criticizing local leaders, urging state and city cooperation and noting National Guard deployments are a presidential decision while hundreds protested onsite. Organizers including the People’s Action Coalition Against Trump planned a Friday noon response and a “No Trump No Troops” rally and march is scheduled for Saturday at 1 p.m. at the Minnesota State Capitol.

Public Safety Legal Local Government

2M pounds of pork jerky recalled

Oct 25 Breaking TC 1

USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced on Oct. 24, 2025, that a South Dakota manufacturer is recalling about 2 million pounds of Korean barbecue pork jerky due to possible metal wire contamination. The recall is nationwide and may affect Twin Cities retailers and consumers; FSIS advises not to eat the product and to discard or return it to the place of purchase.

Health Public Safety

Weinhagen resigns from Mounds View school board

Oct 24 Dev TC 1

Jonathan Weinhagen has resigned from the Mounds View (ISD 621) school board amid federal fraud allegations. The departure changes leadership for the Ramsey County district and follows his recent federal indictment tied to his prior role outside the district.

Education Local Government

Developer seeks $3.5M St. Paul loan for Grand/Victoria project

Oct 24 Breaking TC 1

A developer has asked the City of St. Paul to approve a $3.5 million public loan to support a mixed‑use housing and retail project at Grand Avenue and Victoria Street, according to a Friday report. City officials are expected to consider the request as part of the project’s financing review.

Housing Local Government

Gun found at Champlin Park High; 2 arrested

Oct 24 Breaking TC 1

Brooklyn Park police say a handgun was recovered from a backpack at Champlin Park High School around 8:45 a.m. Friday after a tip led the school resource officer and staff to the students involved. Two 15-year-old boys, both students, were arrested and booked into the Hennepin County Juvenile Detention Center; the investigation is ongoing.

Public Safety Education

Shutdown delays Social Security COLA announcement

Oct 24 Breaking TC 2

A government shutdown delayed the usual announcement of the Social Security cost-of-living adjustment, leaving recipients uncertain about next year’s benefit increase. Officials have now set the 2026 COLA at 2.8%, which will raise average monthly benefits by about $56 and ends the uncertainty caused by the earlier delay.

Business & Economy Government Government/Regulatory

Social Security sets 2026 COLA at 2.8%

Oct 24 Breaking TC 1

Social Security recipients will receive a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment in 2026, translating to an average increase of about $56 per month, according to a report published Oct. 24, 2025. The nationwide change directly affects beneficiaries in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro as monthly payments adjust in the new year.

Business & Economy Government

Alaska Airlines resumes after IT outage grounds flights

Oct 24 Breaking TC 1

Alaska Airlines said Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, that it has resumed operations after an IT outage grounded its flights for hours, causing delays and cancellations across its network. The disruption affected flights serving Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) before service restarted.

Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

Fridley man charged with two counts in Fletcher’s firebombings; community rallies

Oct 24 Breaking TC 4

Prosecutors have charged a Fridley man with two counts of first‑degree arson after two Molotov cocktail attacks on Fletcher’s Ice Cream in Minneapolis — one Sunday night that broke a window but was extinguished and a second in daylight Monday that failed to ignite when the wick fell out. A witness photo of a suspect in a minivan helped police make an arrest about a half‑mile away, and the community, joined by Mayor Jacob Frey and others, rallied at the shop Thursday while officials say motive — including whether it was related to the shop’s pride flag — remains undetermined.

Public Safety Legal Business & Economy

State investment board cites safety, moves online

Oct 24 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota State Board of Investment delayed parts of its agenda and shifted its Oct. 23 meeting to a virtual format, citing concerns about political violence and safety. The board, which oversees public pension investments for state and local employees including many in the Twin Cities, said the changes were precautionary as it conducted business remotely.

Local Government Public Safety

St. Paul family seeks DOC accountability after prison death

Oct 24 Dev TC 1

The family of Stephen Williams, a St. Paul man who died while incarcerated at the state’s Rush City prison, is calling for accountability from the Minnesota Department of Corrections. In reporting published Oct. 23, 2025, relatives urged transparency and action regarding the circumstances of his death at MCF–Rush City.

Public Safety Legal

Southwest LRT begins on‑track testing

Oct 23 Breaking TC 2

Trains on the Southwest Light Rail have begun moving along the new tracks for on‑track testing. The Metropolitan Council says the Green Line extension to the west metro is still targeted to begin service in 2027, reaffirming that timeline after testing started.

Public Safety Local Government Transit & Infrastructure

Secondary market emerges for MN cannabis licenses

Oct 23 TC 1

FOX 9 reports Minnesota recreational cannabis licenses are being listed and resold on secondary markets, with more than 80 licenses recently posted at combined asking prices once above $100 million. One local example is a former Wendy’s site in Roseville marketed with city approval and a lease, though any change in majority ownership would reset its place in the city’s queue for three retail licenses; all transfers require approval from the Office of Cannabis Management.

Business & Economy Local Government

Eagan man pleads guilty in apartment rape

Oct 23 Breaking TC 1

An Eagan man pleaded guilty on Oct. 23, 2025, to raping a woman after sneaking into her first‑floor apartment in Eagan. The plea resolves a violent sexual assault case in the Twin Cities suburb and advances the case toward sentencing in Dakota County.

Legal Public Safety

St. Paul Mayor Carter seeks third term

Oct 23 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter said he is seeking a third term, citing ongoing work he wants to complete as the Nov. 4, 2025 election approaches. The announcement comes with early voting already underway; Carter faces challengers Kaohly Vang Her, Adam Dullinger, Yan Chen and Mike Hilborn.

Elections Local Government

Eight charged in MN Housing Stabilization Services fraud allegedly spent millions on Kenya real estate, luxury cars

Oct 23 Breaking TC 4

Federal prosecutors in Minnesota have charged eight people with wire fraud in an alleged scheme to siphon more than $8 million from the state's Medicaid Housing Stabilization Services program, and one defendant has already pleaded guilty. Authorities say the funds were spent on Kenya real estate, leased luxury vehicles (including BMWs and Mercedes), a Roseville apartment, nearly $500,000 on a joint American Express Platinum card and were funneled through companies such as Brilliant Minds Services LLC, Leo Human Services LLC, Faladcare Inc. and Liberty Plus LLC; the FBI raided sites July 16 and the investigation is ongoing with more charges expected.

Housing Legal

Early voting starts Sept. 19 in Twin Cities

Oct 23 Breaking TC 2

Early voting in the Twin Cities begins Sept. 19 for 2025 contests, including a Nov. 4 special election for Minnesota Senate District 29. The SD29 race pits GOP nominee Michael Holmstrom Jr., a Buffalo small‑business owner, against DFL nominee Louis McNutt, a MnDOT heavy equipment mechanic and AFSCME Council 5 secretary, and because the district leans GOP (Anderson won 68–32 in 2022) the result could affect the DFL’s narrow 33–32 Senate majority with two open seats (SD47 and SD29).

Local Government Elections

Tesla recalls 63,000+ Cybertrucks for bright headlights

Oct 23 Breaking TC 1

Tesla has issued a nationwide recall of more than 63,000 Cybertrucks because the front lights are too bright and can cause glare for other drivers, a violation of federal safety standards. Announced Oct. 23, 2025, the recall affects owners in the Twin Cities; Tesla says it will provide a free remedy (expected via software update) and notify owners and dealers.

Public Safety Technology

US, EU sanctions lift oil; gas prices may rise

Oct 23 Breaking TC 1

The United States and European Union imposed new sanctions on Russian oil companies on Thursday, prompting a jump in global oil prices that could raise gasoline costs for Minneapolis–Saint Paul drivers in coming days. Analysts and industry watchers say higher crude and wholesale fuel prices typically flow through to the pump, with timing dependent on station inventories and supply contracts.

Energy Business & Economy

Evergreen Recovery leaders plead guilty in Medicaid fraud, kickback scheme

Oct 23 Breaking TC 2

Two leaders of Evergreen Recovery, Shantel Magadanz and Heather Heim, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in a scheme prosecutors say involved illegal kickbacks with Sber Chances Sober Living—offering housing in exchange for attendance at Evergreen programming that was often not provided, with falsified records and coercion that allegedly cost taxpayers millions. A third Evergreen leader, Shawn Grygo, was indicted in December 2024 and has not pleaded guilty, and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison condemned the theft of Medicaid funds and vowed continued enforcement.

Legal Health

Rep. Elliott Engen launches auditor bid

Oct 23 Breaking TC 1

Republican state Rep. Elliott Engen announced he is running for Minnesota state auditor, entering the 2026 statewide race for the office that audits state and local governments. The auditor’s work directly affects metro cities, counties and school districts, and Twin Cities voters will help decide the contest.

Elections Local Government

Express buses to replace Northstar at two stops

Oct 23 Breaking TC 1

Metro Transit will replace Northstar commuter rail service at the Big Lake and Elk River stations with new express bus service, affecting riders who use those stations to reach Minneapolis and other Twin Cities stops. The change shifts how Sherburne County commuters access the Northstar corridor and downtown, with officials outlining the replacement service to maintain connectivity.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Minneapolis posts full 2025 mayor, council ballot

Oct 23 TC 1

FOX 9 lists all candidates for Minneapolis’ 2025 mayoral and City Council races and details where and when residents can vote. Fifteen candidates are on the mayoral ballot, including incumbent Jacob Frey and Sen. Omar Fateh, with ranked-choice voting in use; early voting is open now at the Early Vote Center (980 E Hennepin Ave) ahead of Election Day on Nov. 4, 2025. The guide also notes at least three open council seats (Wards 5, 8, 11) and publishes ward-by-ward candidate lineups.

Elections Local Government

St. Paul meeting addresses racist fliers

Oct 23 Dev TC 1

About two dozen St. Paul residents met with police and Mayor Melvin Carter Wednesday night at Bethlehem Lutheran Church to discuss racist fliers found Oct. 2 in several Merriam Park locations targeting Black and Somali people. Police said they are investigating who distributed the fliers—tossed on the ground at four spots—and noted it is unclear whether a crime occurred, though littering or trespassing could apply.

Public Safety Local Government

Brooklyn Park police search for missing boy

Oct 23 Breaking TC 1

Brooklyn Park police issued a public alert Wednesday night for a missing 10-year-old boy last seen near Single Creek Drive and Hampshire Avenue. He was wearing green pants, a green sweater, a blue Ralph Lauren jacket with patches, an army backpack, and tan shoes. Police ask anyone who sees the child or knows his whereabouts to call 911.

Public Safety Legal

Lakeville weighs 390-acre, 1,440-home project

Oct 22 Breaking TC 1

Lakeville officials are reviewing a proposal for a roughly 390-acre development in the city’s southwest corner that could include up to 1,440 homes and substantial commercial space. The plan, reported Oct. 22, 2025, would significantly reshape land use and could impact housing supply, retail mix, and local services if approved.

Housing Local Government

MPD seeks two cyclists in Temple Israel bias‑graffiti case; asks public for video

Oct 22 Breaking TC 2

Minneapolis police are treating anti‑Semitic graffiti at Temple Israel as a bias crime and are seeking two cyclists seen leaving the scene — both wearing dark hoodies, masks and blue surgical gloves — and have issued a public appeal for tips and surveillance footage. The pair were observed arriving and leaving via 24th St W to Fremont Ave S, seen near 25th St W & Humboldt Ave S and last seen southbound at 26th St W & Irving Ave S; residents with video from Oct. 8 between 2–3 a.m. are asked to contact policetips@minneapolismn.gov, 612‑673‑5845 or CrimeStoppersMN.org/1‑800‑TIPS.

Legal Local Government Public Safety

Legrand’s Minnetonka HQ building sells for $23M

Oct 22 Breaking TC 1

Buhl Investors has sold the Minnetonka office building that houses Legrand’s new headquarters for $23 million, marking a major markup on the asset. The transaction, reported Oct. 22, 2025, underscores investor demand for single-tenant, HQ‑anchored properties in the Twin Cities market.

Business & Economy Real Estate

Wind advisory brings 45–50 mph gusts Tuesday

Oct 22 Breaking TC 2

A wind advisory on Tuesday produced widespread gusts in the mid-40s to low-50s, including a 53 mph peak at Redwood Falls and a 43 mph gust in the Twin Cities, with numerous communities reporting gusts in the mid-40s. Cloud cover should clear midweek, with sunshine returning and highs climbing into the upper 50s toward the weekend with generally dry conditions.

Weather

MN Supreme Court: USAPL discriminated against trans athlete; remands ‘business purpose’ defense

Oct 22 Breaking TC 2

The Minnesota Supreme Court ruled that USA Powerlifting discriminated against transgender weightlifter JayCee Cooper under the Minnesota Human Rights Act’s public‑accommodations provision, affirming partial summary judgment that USAPL’s policy constituted sexual‑orientation discrimination. The court remanded a separate business‑statute claim to district court so USAPL can pursue a “legitimate business purposes” defense; Cooper, who sued in 2021 after being denied entry to women’s events in 2018, and her advocates say the public‑accommodations ruling would still leave USAPL liable even if it prevailed on the remanded claim.

Legal

I-94 downtown St. Paul closed this weekend

Oct 22 Breaking TC 1

MnDOT says sections of I-94 through downtown St. Paul will be closed from Friday through Monday for construction work, with posted detours and significant travel delays expected. The shutdown affects a core interstate corridor used by commuters and event traffic, and is part of ongoing road and bridge work in the downtown St. Paul area.

Transit & Infrastructure Public Safety

Robins Kaplan downsizes, moves to Wells Fargo Center

Oct 22 Breaking TC 1

Robins Kaplan will reduce its Minneapolis office footprint and relocate to the Wells Fargo Center downtown, with a multimillion‑dollar build‑out planned, firm leaders said on Oct. 22, 2025. The move reflects a strategic shift in how the law firm uses office space in the Twin Cities’ core business district.

Business & Economy Real Estate

Brooklyn Center school bus fire; 8 evacuated

Oct 22 Breaking TC 1

The Brooklyn Center Fire Department extinguished a school bus fire near 55th Avenue and Brooklyn Boulevard shortly before 3 p.m., safely evacuating eight children with help from the driver and bystanders. Metro Transit provided a bus to keep students warm and Brooklyn Center police coordinated reunification at a nearby elementary school; the bus was a total loss and the cause is under investigation, with an initial suspicion of a mechanical issue near the engine.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

3M lifts outlook; shares jump nearly 8%

Oct 22 Breaking TC 1

Maplewood-based 3M raised its full-year earnings outlook on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025, citing progress in its turnaround, and its shares climbed about 7.7% on the day. As one of the Twin Cities’ largest employers, the improved guidance and market reaction signal strengthening business conditions with potential implications for local operations and jobs.

Business & Economy

Union stages protest against Ramsey County detox program closure

Oct 21 Dev TC 2

On Oct. 21 union members held a public protest opposing Ramsey County’s planned closure of its detox/withdrawal management program, escalating organized labor’s pushback beyond earlier statements. Protesters urged county commissioners to keep the program open, emphasizing the closure’s impact on St. Paul and Ramsey County residents.

Health Local Government

East Bethel mom alerts driver, saves bus riders

Oct 21 Breaking TC 1

A school bus caught fire in East Bethel, and parent Kari Thorp alerted the driver after spotting flames near a tire, allowing all 22 children and the driver to evacuate safely, according to FOX 9. The bus tires later exploded after firefighters arrived; a week later, the community presented thank‑you baskets to both the driver and Thorp for their actions.

Public Safety Education

Hennepin County releases 911 call transcript

Oct 21 Dev TC 1

Hennepin County has released the 911 transcript from an attempted political assassination in Minnesota after a legal fight, making the emergency call record public. The newly released transcript pertains to a case involving Vance Boelter and follows a dispute over access to the document.

Public Safety Legal

St. Paul joins lawsuit over $100M emergency grants

Oct 21 Dev TC 1

The City of St. Paul said Tuesday it has joined a coalition of cities suing the federal government over a policy that threatens more than $100 million in emergency grants. City officials argue the federal conditions unlawfully put critical emergency funding at risk for municipalities, and the suit seeks to block the changes while the case proceeds.

Local Government Legal

Grand Ave Macalester–Wheeler segment reopens Tuesday; $6.7M project ribbon cutting 4:30 p.m.

Oct 21 Breaking TC 2

Grand Avenue between Macalester and Wheeler streets reopens Tuesday, Oct. 21, with a free community celebration from 4–6 p.m. and a ribbon cutting at 4:30 p.m.; traffic is expected to reopen by 11 p.m. The $6.7 million phase — part of the larger Grand Ave. project between Snelling and Fairview and partly funded by the 1% sales tax approved in 2023 — aims to improve pedestrian safety and crossings, modernize infrastructure, and upgrade environmental and transit amenities, with most construction due to finish by year‑end 2025 and final cleanup into 2026.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

St. Paul man charged in teen sex assault

Oct 21 Breaking TC 1

A St. Paul man has been charged with sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl he allegedly met through a dating app, according to a Tuesday report. The case, filed in Ramsey County, involves an alleged assault of a minor and remains under investigation by authorities.

Public Safety Legal

Funding secured for 600+ Twin Cities homes

Oct 21 Breaking TC 1

Emerging developers have secured financing to build more than 600 housing units in Minneapolis and St. Paul, according to the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal on Oct. 21, 2025. The funding advances multiple projects that would add significant new apartments/homes in both cities, marking a notable boost to the metro’s housing pipeline.

Housing Business & Economy

Minnesota measles cases rise to 21 after Mayo case

Oct 21 Dev TC 3

Minnesota’s measles total for 2025 has risen to 21 after a newly identified case linked to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester/Olmsted County; officials and local outlets have reported recent additional cases, including reports of 10 new infections among unvaccinated patients. Public health authorities and reporters say the surge is tied in part to declines in routine childhood vaccination, increasing the risk of transmission.

Public Safety Health

Xcel names Bria Shea regional president

Oct 21 Breaking TC 2

Xcel Energy has promoted Bria Shea to regional president overseeing its operations in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. Shea brings more than 15 years of experience at Xcel Energy to the role.

Utilities Business & Economy

State lifts cap on Hennepin jail capacity

Oct 21 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota Department of Corrections has approved an increase in the Hennepin County jail’s allowable population after a hiring spree boosted detention staffing, officials said this week. The change, affecting the Adult Detention Center in downtown Minneapolis, relaxes earlier limits tied to staffing shortfalls and enables the county to hold more detainees locally under DOC standards.

Public Safety Local Government

Rollover crash shuts I-35W in Burnsville

Oct 21 Breaking TC 1

A rollover crash closed a stretch of I-35W in Burnsville during the morning commute, forcing traffic to divert, according to a local report. Authorities warned of significant delays as detours were set up; no immediate information on injuries or a reopening timeline was available.

Transit & Infrastructure Public Safety

AG Keith Ellison seeks third term

Oct 21 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison announced he will run for a third term, launching his 2026 re‑election campaign. As the state’s top legal officer, Ellison’s bid sets up the statewide race that will shape consumer protection, public safety, and civil enforcement priorities affecting Minneapolis–Saint Paul.

Elections Legal

Supreme Court to review federal gun ban for marijuana users (922(g)(3))

Oct 21 Breaking TC 2

The Supreme Court will decide whether the federal ban on firearm possession by "unlawful users" of controlled substances (18 U.S.C. 922(g)(3)) applies to people who regularly use marijuana, a question arising after a Texas man's gun conviction was overturned post‑Bruen because he wasn’t found actively using while armed. The Biden administration argues the prohibition is justified for "regular drug users" on public‑safety grounds, while challengers point to historical laws that punished carrying while intoxicated rather than mere use; the case also underscores ATF and DOJ reminders that combining guns and marijuana remains illegal under federal law despite state legalization, with arguments likely early next year.

Public Safety Legal

MPS denies race-only classes, updates course guides

Oct 21 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis Public Schools said it does not restrict class enrollment by race or gender after course guides at South and Roosevelt high schools listed Black culture courses as open only to Black boys or Black girls. The district said the posted language is not reflective of actual practice and will be updated, while an attorney interviewed by FOX 9 argued race-based restrictions would violate Title VI and risk federal funding.

Education Legal

Ramsey County settles foster parents data case

Oct 21 Breaking TC 1

Ramsey County will pay $875,000 to foster parents from Little Canada to resolve a data practices dispute, according to a report published Oct. 20, 2025. The settlement closes a legal conflict over the county’s handling of data, ending the case without further litigation and carrying financial implications for the county.

Legal Local Government

Walz, Prairie Island sign cannabis compact; wholesale to state dispensaries could begin in November

Oct 21 Breaking TC 2

Gov. Tim Walz and leaders of the Prairie Island Indian Community signed a tribal-state cannabis compact on Monday, Oct. 20, 2025, establishing terms for the tribe to supply recreational cannabis to state dispensaries. If implementation proceeds as planned, wholesale deliveries to state-licensed retailers could begin as soon as November.

Local Government Business & Economy

Minnesota ends same-day license pilot Oct. 31

Oct 21 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Driver and Vehicle Services will discontinue its pilot for same‑day printing of standard Class D driver’s licenses on Oct. 31, 2025, after recommending against expansion due to quality and appearance differences that led to acceptance issues at bars and airports. The pilot, launched in May 2023 at the Dakota County License Center in Lakeville and in Moorhead, will shift all standard licenses, IDs, and permits back to vendor‑printed cards mailed to customers.

Local Government Transit & Infrastructure

Itasca Project leadership to end group

Oct 20 Breaking TC 1

The Itasca Project, a business-led regional development group in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul area, is being ended by its leadership, the Star Tribune reports. The change affects a long‑running CEO and civic leader forum that has played a role in shaping metro economic strategy; details on timelines and how work may transition to other organizations were not immediately specified.

Business & Economy

Federal cuts slash Minnesota food aid

Oct 20 Dev TC 1

USDA funding reductions to The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) have removed roughly 1 million pounds of food from Minnesota’s supply, and state and nonprofit officials warn deeper cuts could follow. The shortfall affects food shelves statewide, including in the Twin Cities, forcing pantries to stretch resources as demand remains high.

Health Local Government Business & Economy

Wayzata sued over short-term rental ban

Oct 20 Breaking TC 1

Five Wayzata rental owners have filed a lawsuit challenging the city’s September ordinance that bans short‑term rentals like Airbnb and Vrbo, which is set to take effect next April. The suit argues the city failed to follow required procedures such as holding a public hearing and that the ordinance conflicts with city and state laws; plaintiffs are asking a judge to block enforcement so they can continue operating. The ordinance allows rentals only if they are 30 days or longer.

Legal Local Government Housing

Maple Grove woman takes lesser plea after appeal

Oct 20 Dev TC 1

A Maple Grove woman who fatally shot her boyfriend pleaded to a lesser charge in Hennepin County District Court after the Minnesota Court of Appeals overturned her murder conviction. The plea, reported Oct. 20, 2025, resolves a high‑profile domestic violence case rooted in allegations of abuse and shifts the outcome from a prior murder verdict to a reduced offense.

Legal Public Safety

Minneapolis starts fall street sweeping Tuesday

Oct 20 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis Public Works will begin its fall street sweeping on Tuesday, enforcing temporary 'No Parking' rules on posted streets while crews clean. Residents are urged to watch for signs, use the city’s online map or call 311 to check their block’s schedule; vehicles parked in violation may be ticketed and towed.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Stillwater Lift Bridge closes for the season

Oct 20 Breaking TC 1

The Stillwater Lift Bridge in Washington County closed for the season on Oct. 20, affecting pedestrian and bicycle crossings on the St. Croix River in the Twin Cities metro. The seasonal shutdown diverts trail users to alternative routes such as the St. Croix Crossing path until the bridge reopens in spring.

Transit & Infrastructure

Bemidji teen, infant may be in St. Paul

Oct 20 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota BCA issued an alert Monday for 17-year-old Laura Wright and her 7-month-old son, Kylo, reported missing from Bemidji after they were last seen Saturday entering a sedan with LED lights. Authorities say the pair may be in the St. Paul area and released physical descriptions to aid the search. Anyone with information is asked to call 218-333-9111.

Public Safety

Bouncer charged in Rick's Cabaret shooting that critically injured man

Oct 20 Breaking TC 3

Andrew Jordan Thompson, 30, a bouncer at Rick’s Cabaret, has been charged with second-degree assault in the Oct. 5 shooting outside the downtown Minneapolis strip club that left a man hospitalized with potentially life‑threatening injuries; police have released the victim’s identity and said the incident occurred near 300 3rd St. S. Witness video and accounts show a fight in which Thompson was knocked down before he allegedly followed the pair clutching his waistband and fired a shot, then three more; officers recovered multiple shell casings and a live round, found handgun ammunition in Thompson’s apartment, and booked him into Hennepin County Jail where he is also being held on a 2023 Hopkins weapons case.

Public Safety Legal Crime

AWS outage disrupts Snapchat, Ring services

Oct 20 Dev TC 1

A major Amazon Web Services outage on Monday, Oct. 20, 2025, disrupted Snapchat, Ring and other online services nationwide, affecting users in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro. The scope extended across multiple AWS-reliant apps and sites, with service interruptions reported as restoration efforts proceeded.

Technology

Speeding motorcyclist dies on Minneapolis ramp

Oct 20 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota State Patrol says a motorcyclist who was speeding crashed on a downtown Minneapolis freeway ramp and died. The fatal single-vehicle crash occurred on a ramp serving the city’s downtown; the State Patrol is investigating and has not yet released further details.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Former Minnesota Teacher of the Year Abdul Wright sentenced to 14 years

Oct 20 Dev TC 3

Abdul Wright, a former Minnesota Teacher of the Year, was sentenced to 14 years in prison on Oct. 17, 2025, in Hennepin County District Court after being convicted of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old student. During the sex-crimes trial the judge found that Wright lied while testifying.

Public Safety Education Legal

Minneapolis board weighs school closures

Oct 20 Dev TC 1

The Minneapolis School Board signaled on Oct. 20, 2025, that school closures are on the table, according to a Minnesota Reformer report. The indication suggests the district may pursue consolidation or closures, with details, affected schools, and a decision timeline not yet specified.

Education Local Government

Group attacks, robs men outside Minneapolis church

Oct 19 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis police say two men leaving St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church were attacked around 8 a.m. Sunday by a group of 7–8 men who jumped out of two gray vehicles near 3rd Ave. S. and E. 46th St. One victim was pushed to the ground and robbed while the other was injured dodging objects thrown by the group. The suspects fled in the vehicles; no arrests have been made and the victims chose private transport to a hospital after on‑scene evaluation.

Public Safety

Minneapolis raid seizes nearly 10 pounds fentanyl

Oct 19 Breaking TC 1

Hennepin County Sheriff’s deputies executing a search warrant Oct. 16 at a home on Fremont Ave. N near Lowry Ave. in Minneapolis’ Folwell neighborhood recovered about 4.5 kg (9.9 lb) of suspected fentanyl, 726 g of meth, 13 lb of cannabis, three firearms and $46,000 in cash. Kiron Jamoll Williams, 43, of Phoenix, Arizona, was charged with first-degree drug and weapons offenses after allegedly trying to dump a bag of white powder into a toilet as officers entered; deputies initiated exposure protocols due to airborne powder. Investigators also found a kilo press, blender with residue, ammunition and packing materials; a neighbor reported another man jumped from a window and has not been identified.

Public Safety Legal

Scott Jensen launches second run for governor

Oct 19 Breaking TC 1

Former Minnesota gubernatorial candidate Scott Jensen announced a second bid for governor and said he is embracing Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the “Make America Healthy Again” theme. The Star Tribune reports the move positions Jensen in the emerging 2026 field, which includes Gov. Tim Walz seeking a third term, and signals the messaging he plans to center in his campaign.

Elections Local Government

Body found in Richfield’s Wood Lake Saturday

Oct 19 Breaking TC 1

A pedestrian reported a body floating in Wood Lake in Richfield just after 10 a.m. Saturday, and responders recovered an unidentified adult male. The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation while the Medical Examiner works to determine the man’s identity and cause of death; police have not said whether the death appears suspicious.

Public Safety Legal

Off-duty St. Cloud officer Ryan Ebert dies after Apple Valley bus crash

Oct 18 Breaking TC 2

Ryan Ebert, 44, an 18‑year veteran of the St. Cloud Police Department, died Oct. 18 at Hennepin County Medical Center after being gravely injured in a crash Oct. 13 on northbound Highway 77 just south of I‑35E in Apple Valley. The Minnesota State Patrol report says Ebert’s pickup struck a transit bus and a cable barrier, the 65‑year‑old bus driver suffered non‑life‑threatening injuries, the report lists alcohol as a factor and notes Ebert was not wearing a seat belt, though St. Cloud Chief Jeff Oxton said medical records showed only a trace amount well below impairment levels; family members have authorized organ donation and final MSP findings are pending.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

South St. Paul tannery strike ends with deal

Oct 18 Breaking TC 1

A weeklong strike at a tannery in South St. Paul ended after workers and management reached an agreement reported Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. Details of the pact were not immediately disclosed, but the resolution concludes a work stoppage affecting a Dakota County industrial employer.

Business & Economy

Prior Lake medspa owner Nancy Anderberg charged over 'black market' Botox, fake RN license

Oct 18 Breaking TC 2

Prior Lake medspa owner Nancy Anderberg, who operates Regen Life Antiaging Medspa, has been charged with unlawfully practicing medicine after allegedly buying "black market" Botox and administering injections — including Botox and semaglutide/Ozempic — without proper licensure or prescriptions, allegedly faking a registered nurse license and listing a medical director who was unaware of the listing. The investigation, which began in May 2024, includes witness texts saying she sourced products and learned injection techniques from YouTube, and a collaborating physician told investigators she lacked qualifications; the unlawful-practice charge carries up to one year in jail and a $3,000 fine.

Legal Health

BCA: Twin Cities violent crime up 1% in 2024

Oct 17 TC 2

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension reports violent crime in the Twin Cities rose 1% in 2024, even as statewide data show murders and assaults continued to decline, extending a post‑pandemic downward trend. The BCA framed 2024 as a continuation of post‑pandemic normalization in key violent‑crime categories.

Public Safety Local Government

Minnesota federal courts limit operations amid shutdown

Oct 17 Dev TC 1

The U.S. District Court for Minnesota announced it is shifting to limited operations due to the federal funding lapse tied to the government shutdown, affecting the Minneapolis and St. Paul courthouses. Essential criminal proceedings will continue while some civil matters and court services are curtailed until funding is restored.

Legal Local Government

USDA flags critical issues at UMN labs

Oct 17 Breaking TC 1

USDA inspection reports cite 'critical' animal‑welfare and compliance problems at University of Minnesota animal research labs, according to the Star Tribune. The findings, classified at the most serious level by federal regulators, concern UMN facilities in the Twin Cities and could require corrective actions under the Animal Welfare Act.

Education Government/Regulatory

Census: Minnesota poverty rate second-lowest

Oct 17 TC 1

The U.S. Census Bureau’s latest figures show Minnesota has the nation’s second‑lowest poverty rate, though the rate has risen in recent measurements. Released this week, the new data provide a current snapshot of economic hardship that will inform policy and service planning for Minneapolis–Saint Paul and the rest of the state.

Business & Economy Health

Ford recalls 290,000 U.S. vehicles for camera issue

Oct 17 Breaking TC 1

Ford Motor Company announced a U.S. safety recall affecting more than 290,000 vehicles due to a rearview camera system issue that may impair the display of the rear image. The recall applies nationwide, including Twin Cities owners, with Ford indicating affected vehicles will be eligible for a no‑cost remedy at dealers and advising owners to check their VINs for recall status.

Public Safety Business & Economy

Guide to 2025 metro county elections

Oct 16 TC 1

The Pioneer Press provides a 2025 election guide for Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington counties, detailing local races and ballot questions ahead of Election Day on Nov. 4, 2025. The guide consolidates what’s on ballots across the three Twin Cities counties with timing reminders as early voting continues.

Elections Local Government

Minnesota drops 800 inactive Medicaid providers statewide

Oct 16 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota’s Department of Human Services disenrolled about 800 inactive Medicaid providers on Oct. 15, 2025, under Gov. Tim Walz’s Executive Order 25-10 directing immediate removal of providers who haven’t billed in the past 12 months. DHS said the step, which excludes 621 inactive Housing Stabilization Services providers slated to end Oct. 31, is part of tightening oversight after widespread fraud allegations, with additional rounds of eliminations planned.

Health Local Government

HistoSonics raises $250M for global expansion

Oct 16 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis‑based medtech HistoSonics raised $250 million to scale its noninvasive ultrasound tumor‑treatment platform globally, according to the Twin Cities Business Journal on Oct. 16, 2025. Investors include Bezos Expeditions and Thiel Capital, and the company says the financing will accelerate commercialization and expansion of its histotripsy technology, with implications for its Twin Cities operations.

Business & Economy Health Technology

Meta expands land holdings in Rosemount

Oct 16 Breaking TC 1

The Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal reports that Meta Platforms, Facebook’s parent company, has purchased additional land near its prospective data center site in Rosemount, Minnesota. The acquisition expands Meta’s footprint in Dakota County and signals continued movement on the potential data center project.

Business & Economy Technology

Burned body found at Lake Minnetonka dock

Oct 16 Breaking TC 1

South Lake Minnetonka police launched a death investigation after a badly burned body was found in Lake Minnetonka beside a smoldering dock on the 4500 block of Enchanted Point in Shorewood just before 2 p.m. on Oct. 14. A Hennepin County search warrant cites signs of accelerants near the body, notes a possible fractured leg and burned dock canopy, and lists seized items including laptops, phones, paperwork that may include a note or will, and a can; court records show one person tied to the property was under an Extreme Risk Protection Order earlier this year and was civilly committed.

Public Safety Legal

Lakeville I-35W stop nets 200-pound meth haul

Oct 16 Breaking TC 1

A Minnesota State Patrol trooper conducting a Sept. 26 traffic stop on I-35W in Lakeville found about 200 pounds of methamphetamine in a commercial truck after a K9 alert, according to Dakota County charges. Driver Jonathan Israel Tirado-Juarez, 43, who lacked required commercial paperwork and produced only a photo of a Mexican CDL, was charged with possession and intent to sell and is detained pending further proceedings.

Public Safety Legal

Minneapolis mayoral hopefuls split on policing

Oct 16 Dev TC 1

At a Wednesday forum at The Capri Theater in Minneapolis, mayoral candidates outlined contrasting approaches to policing and public safety with less than three weeks before Election Day. All agreed the city needs officers for violent crime, while diverging on funding priorities and responses to non‑violent calls, with Mayor Jacob Frey emphasizing hiring more officers and others focusing on reallocating resources toward behavioral crisis response and alternatives to police.

Elections Public Safety Local Government

Mercy Hospital - Unity Campus lockdown lifted after bomb threat

Oct 16 Dev TC 1

Fridley Police say the Allina Health Call Center received a bomb threat around 3 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15, targeting Mercy Hospital - Unity Campus in Fridley. The campus was placed on lockdown while police and security searched the area; the lockdown was lifted after the search, and the investigation is ongoing with a public tip line open.

Public Safety Health

Edina High students allowed to carry Narcan

Oct 15 Breaking TC 2

Edina High School has adopted a new policy allowing students in grades 9–12 to carry and administer Narcan (naloxone), making the district one of the early adopters in Minnesota after a 2025 state revision that built on a 2023 law requiring at least two doses per school. Superintendent Dan Bittman said he expects other districts may consider similar policies; the Minnesota Department of Education does not track district-level student-carry naloxone policies, and Edina reports overwhelmingly positive parent feedback with no negative responses so far.

Education Health

FAFSA 2026–27 application now open

Oct 15 Breaking TC 1

Federal Student Aid opened the 2026–27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid on Oct. 15, 2025, allowing Twin Cities students and families to begin applying for federal, state, and institutional aid for the 2026–27 academic year. Applicants use FSA IDs, invite required contributors (such as a parent) to consent to IRS data sharing, and should file ahead of college and state priority deadlines.

Education

Minneapolis crash with train critically injures driver

Oct 15 Breaking TC 1

A chain-reaction collision in Minneapolis involving two SUVs and a moving train left one driver in critical condition, according to the Star Tribune. The crash occurred at a rail crossing in Minneapolis; emergency responders transported the critically injured driver as investigators worked to determine how the sequence of impacts unfolded.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Medicare open enrollment starts amid MA cuts

Oct 15 Breaking TC 1

Medicare open enrollment runs Oct. 15–Dec. 7, allowing Twin Cities Medicare members—especially those losing Medicare Advantage plans in 2026 due to insurer pullbacks—to join, drop, or switch plans. Enrollees in Medicare Advantage also have an additional Jan. 1–March 31 window to change MA plans, with coverage effective the month after enrollment; assistance is available via 1-800-MEDICARE and Minnesota Aging Pathways (800-333-2433).

Health Business & Economy

St. Paul teen admits fatal University Ave. shooting

Oct 15 Breaking TC 1

A St. Paul teenager has admitted to killing a man with a shot to the head along University Avenue in St. Paul, according to the Star Tribune. The admission marks a major development in the homicide case tied to the University Avenue shooting; further court proceedings, including sentencing, are expected to follow.

Public Safety Legal

Two killed in wrong-way crash on U.S. 52

Oct 15 Breaking TC 1

Two drivers were killed in a wrong-way collision on U.S. Highway 52 in Inver Grove Heights on Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025. Authorities responded to the scene in Dakota County and have opened an investigation into how the wrong-way vehicle entered the roadway.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Report: Downtown St. Paul vacancies ease

Oct 15 TC 1

Greater Saint Paul BOMA’s 2025 Market Report, released Oct. 14, finds downtown St. Paul’s competitive office vacancy improved to about 31% from a peak above 32% last year, after rising from roughly 18% in 2020. BOMA president Tina Gassman says the district is stabilizing with public‑private efforts underway, while more than 1 million square feet left vacant by Madison Equities remains a major drag.

Business & Economy Housing

Highway 7 closes Minnetonka–Shorewood Oct. 15–20

Oct 15 Breaking TC 1

MnDOT will close both directions of Highway 7 between Vine Hill Road in Shorewood/Deephaven and County Road 101 in Minnetonka from 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15, to 5 a.m. Monday, Oct. 20, for a culvert replacement. Drivers will be detoured via I-494, Highway 5, and Highway 41 during the shutdown.

Transit & Infrastructure

Commerce Dept. bans unlicensed insurer in Minnesota

Oct 14 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota Department of Commerce announced on Oct. 14, 2025, that it has barred an unlicensed insurance seller from operating in the state. The regulatory action applies statewide, protecting consumers in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro and across Minnesota from unlawful insurance sales.

Legal Business & Economy

AG: Two contractors accused in $1.5M fraud

Oct 14 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota Attorney General’s Office alleges contractors Ryan Pietron and Earl Bode took more than $1.5 million from families for home projects they abandoned or never started, with victims in Maplewood and Apple Valley among those affected. The state has already imposed a lifetime contractor ban on Bode and barred Pietron from applying for a license until at least 2030, and lawsuits are seeking further penalties and restitution.

Legal Local Government

Judge: DHS can’t tie FEMA aid to immigration cooperation, calls tactic ‘bullying’

Oct 14 Breaking TC 2

A federal judge ruled that the Department of Homeland Security cannot condition FEMA disaster aid on state cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, issuing an injunction barring the DHS-imposed eligibility requirement. In his opinion the judge said DHS was "bullying" states into accepting those immigration-enforcement conditions, a prohibition that affects states and localities including Minnesota.

Legal Local Government

Ex-St. Paul police employee Jamond Glass charged after 11-lb meth, fentanyl seizure at Woodbury home

Oct 14 Breaking TC 2

Ex-St. Paul police employee Jamond Leroy Glass, 34, a former civilian worker in the SPPD non-fatal shooting unit who has been fired, was charged after detectives seized about 9.8 pounds of methamphetamine, 1.68 pounds of fentanyl, 10.5 grams of cocaine and several firearms from a Woodbury home. The package was intercepted by Minneapolis Airport Police and a controlled delivery was made to a Woodbury address listed to “Kay Wilson”; Glass was formally charged Oct. 13 in Washington County with first-degree possession, posted a $50,000 bond and is next due in court Dec. 1.

Legal Public Safety

Search warrant: 22-year-old who posed as White Bear Lake student allegedly received nude images from a student

Oct 14 Breaking TC 10

Authorities say 22-year-old Kelvin Luebke (aka "KJ Perry") enrolled at White Bear Lake High School Sept. 3–29, 2025 using fraudulent documents — including a Liberian birth certificate listing a 2007 birth year — and registered for football practices while the district, citing McKinney‑Vento rules, says it followed enrollment procedures and has launched a review; FOX 9 reported he has a prior conviction for sending explicit images to a 15‑year‑old and was previously enrolled at Forest Lake Area High School. A Ramsey County search warrant alleges Luebke received nude photos from a student, investigators have sought his phone and other records and say multiple parents came forward, and authorities are probing possible fraud, forgery and criminal sexual conduct while no school‑related charges had been filed as of mid‑October.

Public Safety Education Government/Regulatory

Downtown Council steps back from Holidazzle, Aquatennial

Oct 14 Breaking TC 1

The Minneapolis Downtown Council says it will stop directly producing the Holidazzle and Aquatennial festivals and is seeking another organization to take over, citing inconsistent sponsorship funding and evolving needs of downtown Minneapolis. MDC will continue to promote the events and says Holidazzle will evolve into “Winterapolis,” a season‑long campaign highlighting winter activities rather than a single festival.

Business & Economy

Target pilots THC beverages at select Minnesota liquor stores

Oct 14 Breaking TC 2

Target is piloting the sale of THC beverages at select Minnesota liquor stores, rather than in general store aisles. The move taps into what industry observers call the nation’s most competitive THC beverage market, with the pilot reported on Oct. 13, 2025.

Health Government/Regulatory Business & Economy

Maple Grove seeks SUV in Oct. 2 hit-and-run

Oct 13 Dev TC 1

Maple Grove Police are asking the public to help identify a newer black Dodge Durango that allegedly struck a motorcyclist and fled around 7:45 a.m. on Oct. 2 at the four-way stop in front of the Sam’s Club and Walmart in Maple Grove. Police say the motorcyclist, a woman, suffered non-life-threatening injuries but lost her leg; anyone with information is urged to call (763) 494-6100.

Public Safety

Minneapolis seeks developer for Dania Hall site

Oct 13 Breaking TC 1

The City of Minneapolis is seeking a developer to revive the former Dania Hall site in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood, a historically significant parcel where the 1886-built Danish cultural center was destroyed by fires in 1991 and 2000. The move signals a new push to redevelop the long-vacant site; formal solicitation details were not included in the preview.

Local Government Housing

Rep. Ilhan Omar backs Fateh for mayor

Oct 13 Breaking TC 1

U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar endorsed state Sen. Omar Fateh for Minneapolis mayor, the Minnesota Reformer reports. The high‑profile backing comes during Minneapolis’s ongoing 2025 mayoral campaign as early voting is underway ahead of the Nov. 4 election.

Elections Local Government

MSP opens Terminal 1 FLEX Lane for MEA

Oct 13 Breaking TC 1

MSP Airport and the Metropolitan Airports Commission say MEA-week travel will surge about 19% over a typical fall day, with more than 52,000 passengers expected at TSA on Thursday, Oct. 16, and over 50,000 on Wednesday, Oct. 15. To ease congestion, a new free FLEX Lane at Terminal 1 on the left side of Departures Drive (access via doors 5–8; connected to ramps and sky bridges) is now available, while officials expect only minimal local impacts from the ongoing federal government shutdown. Travelers are urged to arrive two hours early for domestic flights, three hours for international, consider MSP RESERVE for security, prebook parking, and use cell phone lots for pickups.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Supreme Court to hear Voting Rights Act challenge

Oct 13 Breaking TC 1

The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a Republican-backed challenge to the Voting Rights Act’s Section 2 involving Black representation, a case that could alter how states draw districts and how voters enforce voting-rights protections. A ruling would apply nationwide, directly affecting Minnesota redistricting practices and Twin Cities voters’ ability to challenge maps and election rules.

Legal Elections

CDC urges COVID shots; Walz gets vaccinated

Oct 13 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz received a COVID-19 vaccination as the CDC recommended that Americans get vaccinated this fall to reduce severe illness. The nationwide guidance applies to Twin Cities residents and comes ahead of the colder season when respiratory viruses typically rise.

Health Local Government

Nonprofit takes over Alliance Bank Center

Oct 13 Breaking TC 1

The Saint Paul Downtown Development Corporation has acquired the vacant Alliance Bank Center in downtown St. Paul from Madison Equities and will assume property management and security from the city, officials confirmed. The nonprofit, a subsidiary of the St. Paul Downtown Alliance, will keep the building and connected skyways closed while conducting a 12‑month redevelopment evaluation, with updated skyway maps coming before winter.

Business & Economy Local Government

Minneapolis Fire Chief Bryan Tyner to retire Dec. 31; to lead Phyllis Wheatley Community Center

Oct 12 Dev TC 2

Minneapolis Fire Chief Bryan Tyner, who began his Minneapolis Fire Department career in 1995 and was appointed the city's second Black fire chief in December 2020, will retire effective Dec. 31, 2025, to become executive director of the Phyllis Wheatley Community Center. During his 30-year career—raised in North Minneapolis and holding an Executive Fire Officer certification—Tyner led the department through COVID-19 and civil unrest, increased firefighter staffing, launched EMS Pathways and Safe Station programs and a nationally recognized commercial building inspection program; a national search for his successor is underway and an interim chief will be appointed.

Public Safety Local Government

UPS may destroy uncleared imports under new rules

Oct 12 Breaking TC 1

UPS told FOX Business Friday it has implemented procedures for imported packages that cannot clear U.S. Customs under newly tightened rules, saying parcels will either be returned to the shipper at their expense or, if customers don’t respond and clearance isn’t possible, disposed of in compliance with regulations. Citing Trump administration changes like suspended de minimis exemptions and stricter documentation, UPS said about 90% of shipments clear on day one and that it makes multiple contact attempts to obtain missing information, but a growing number of parcels are stranded at hubs nationwide.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

IRS shifts high-earner 401(k) catch-ups to Roth

Oct 12 TC 1

The IRS issued regulations implementing SECURE 2.0 that require workers who earned $145,000 or more in the prior year to make 401(k) catch-up contributions to after-tax Roth accounts starting with the 2026 tax year. For 2025, the standard 401(k) contribution limit is $23,500 with an additional $7,500 catch-up for ages 50+ (and $11,250 for ages 60–63), but high earners will lose the option to make pre-tax catch-ups in 2026; plans without a Roth option may need updates or affected workers could be unable to make catch-ups. This change affects Twin Cities employees and employers administering retirement plans.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

Two men shot in St. Paul Battle Creek

Oct 12 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul police say two men were shot just after 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, in the Battle Creek area, with one found in a parking lot on the 1800 block of Suburban Avenue and another located near White Bear Avenue and Old Hudson Road. Both were transported to Regions Hospital; investigators believe the shooting occurred in the parking lot and no arrests have been made as the probe continues.

Public Safety

Bloomington used COVID relief for City Hall bathroom

Oct 12 TC 1

The City of Bloomington spent nearly $1 million in federal COVID‑19 relief funds to renovate a bathroom at City Hall, according to a Star Tribune report. The use of federal aid for a municipal facility upgrade highlights how pandemic funds were allocated locally and raises oversight and prioritization questions for residents and officials.

Local Government Transit & Infrastructure

Minnesota exports fall 19% in Q2 2025

Oct 12 TC 1

Minnesota DEED reported Friday that state exports of agricultural, mining, and manufactured goods totaled $5.8 billion in Q2 2025, a $1.3 billion (19%) drop from Q2 2024, led by a 96% plunge in mineral fuel and oil exports to Canada (-$703 million). Exports to Mexico and China also fell more than 20%, while shipments to Ireland, the UK, Germany and Switzerland increased; officials completed a business mission to Ireland and plan a November trade mission to Germany and Switzerland.

Business & Economy Government

Lakeville wrong-way crash kills man, injures woman

Oct 11 Breaking TC 1

An 85-year-old Lakeville man died and a 44-year-old Farmington woman was critically injured after a wrong-way crash around 11:45 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, on Cedar Avenue just south of 185th St. W in Lakeville. Police say preliminary information indicates the man was driving south in the northbound lanes when the vehicles collided; both were transported to Hennepin County Medical Center, and investigators report no signs of impairment at the scene as the probe continues.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

UnitedHealth to cut MN Medicare Advantage counties from 72 to 27 in 2026; UCare exits; Blue Cross maintains statewide coverage via MA/Cost

Oct 11 Dev TC 3

UnitedHealth Group will sharply shrink its Minnesota Medicare Advantage footprint from 72 counties to 27 in 2026 (part of a national pullback from 109 counties affecting up to 180,000 members), a change that will affect roughly 20% of its Minnesota MA subscribers; UCare is exiting Medicare Advantage entirely while Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota will offer MA in 66 counties and Medicare Cost plans in the other 21, preserving Blue Cross options across all 87 counties. Beneficiaries who lose MA plans will revert to Original Medicare Parts A and B and could lose supplemental benefits and drug coverage, with guarantee-issue Medigap enrollment and stand‑alone Part D plans (with widely varying premiums) cited as immediate replacement options.

Business & Economy Health

FOF defendant accused of tampering pleads guilty

Oct 10 Dev TC 1

A defendant in Minnesota’s Feeding Our Future fraud case who had been accused of witness tampering pleaded guilty to fraud in federal court ahead of trial. The plea is the latest development in the wide‑ranging prosecution over alleged misuse of federal child‑nutrition funds tied to operations in the Twin Cities and across Minnesota.

Legal Public Safety

Minneapolis opens RFP for 'New Nicollet' Phase One

Oct 10 Breaking TC 1

The City of Minneapolis has issued a formal Request for Proposals this week for Phase One of the 'New Nicollet' redevelopment at Lake Street and Nicollet Avenue, the former Kmart site long blamed for severing the corridor. Phase One targets the southeast quadrant with subsidized and affordable apartments; bids are due in January 2026, with a developer to be approved later in 2026 and construction still several years away.

Housing Local Government Transit & Infrastructure

Judge blocks conditions on domestic-violence grants

Oct 10 Breaking TC 1

A federal judge ruled on Oct. 10, 2025, that the Trump administration cannot impose additional conditions on federal domestic‑violence grants, limiting the administration’s ability to tie funding to new requirements. The decision has direct implications for Twin Cities governments and victim‑service providers that depend on these grants to fund domestic‑violence programs.

Legal Local Government

Shakopee neighbor feud triggers 232 police calls

Oct 10 Dev TC 1

Shakopee police say a long-running shared-driveway dispute between neighbors Juan Salas and Jessica Keil generated 232 calls and 260 officer hours over the past year in Shakopee, with Police Chief Jeff Tate estimating the saga has cost taxpayers tens of thousands of dollars. Both parties hold harassment restraining orders against each other and accuse the other of violations, as the city and courts seek a resolution to the escalating conflict.

Public Safety Local Government

Mississippi Market, River Market co-ops to merge

Oct 10 Breaking TC 1

Member-owners of Mississippi Market Natural Foods Co-op in St. Paul and River Market Community Co-op in Stillwater voted to approve a merger on Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, combining the two Twin Cities–area cooperatives. The vote paves the way for legal and operational integration affecting co-op members, shoppers, and staff in Ramsey and Washington counties; further details on timeline and branding were not immediately disclosed.

Business & Economy

Bloomington mulls 9.44% levy, $100M complex

Oct 10 Dev TC 1

City of Bloomington officials are considering a 9.44% property tax increase alongside plans for a $100 million complex, according to a new report. The proposal would affect Bloomington taxpayers in Hennepin County as city leaders review budget and capital project options.

Local Government Transit & Infrastructure

I-94 St. Paul weekend closure for bridge work

Oct 10 Breaking TC 1

MnDOT will close sections of I-94 in St. Paul from 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, to 5 a.m. Monday, Oct. 13, for John Ireland Boulevard bridge replacement work tied to a nine-bridge repair program. Westbound I-94 will be closed between I-35E and Dale Street and eastbound I-94 between Highway 280 and University Ave East, with detours via I-35E, Highway 36, and Highway 280; the bridge is slated to reopen next summer.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Family sues Eagan, Dakota County over jail death

Oct 10 Breaking TC 1

The family of Kingsley Bimpong, 50, filed a federal wrongful death lawsuit alleging Eagan police and Dakota County jail staff ignored signs he was suffering a massive stroke after a Nov. 16, 2024 traffic stop, delaying medical care for more than three hours before he was taken to a hospital where he died three days later. Court filings cite surveillance video of his collapse and body‑camera audio suggesting an officer suspected a stroke; Eagan’s attorney called the death tragic but said he did not exhibit an obvious emergent condition, while Dakota County declined comment.

Legal Public Safety

UMN regents approve 9-2 transfer of Eastcliff to University Foundation

Oct 09 Breaking TC 2

The University of Minnesota Board of Regents voted 9-2 on Oct. 9, 2025, to transfer Eastcliff to the University of Minnesota Foundation. The approval clears a $2.2 million sale of the property to the Foundation.

Education Local Government Business & Economy

State settles sex-discrimination cases with two businesses

Oct 09 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota Department of Human Rights announced Oct. 2025 settlements with Lakes Concrete Plus of Bemidji and Key Lime Air of Thief River Falls after finding both violated the Minnesota Human Rights Act through gender stereotyping. Each company will pay $45,000 to an aggrieved job applicant or former employee and must revise workplace policies to prevent future sex discrimination.

Legal Business & Economy

Jerrod Rentist Johnson charged with attempted murder after St. Paul Green Line table-leg attack

Oct 09 Breaking TC 2

Jerrod Rentist Johnson, 20, of Minneapolis, has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly using a large wooden table leg to repeatedly beat a woman at the Fairview and University Avenue Green Line platform in St. Paul about 5:45 p.m. on Oct. 7, 2025; surveillance footage reportedly shows initial swings, 21 additional strikes and about 17 seconds of continued blows after the victim lost consciousness. The victim suffered a fractured skull, multiple fractures in her right arm, a swollen‑shut eye, a concussion and head wounds closed with staples; officers found a bloodied table leg on the platform and arrested Johnson with blood on his hands, and he faces a separate pending assault charge in Hennepin County.

Legal Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

St. Paul officers give CPR to collapsed 10K runner

Oct 09 Breaking TC 1

During the Twin Cities Marathon 10K on Oct. 9, 2025, a runner collapsed and was given CPR by a St. Paul police officer and three other officers. The officer told reporters, 'God put us there,' describing the on-scene lifesaving effort; the incident prompted an emergency medical response at the race in St. Paul.

Public Safety Health

Walz Threatens Lawsuit if Federal Troops Are Sent to Minnesota

Oct 09 Dev TC 2

Gov. Tim Walz warned he would sue the Trump administration if it sent federal troops to Minnesota, directly tying the threat of legal action to suggestions President Trump might deploy National Guard forces to the state. His statement follows reporting that the administration could consider such deployments.

Government/Regulatory Legal Public Safety

Minnesota launches 10-year Drinking Water Action Plan to address PFAS and nitrate contamination

Oct 09 Breaking TC 2

Minnesota launched a 10-year Drinking Water Action Plan to tackle PFAS and nitrate contamination, with the Minnesota Department of Health reporting 97% of the state's drinking water meets federal standards while about 3% of communities fall below standards due to excessive nitrate and arsenic. The plan — financed by the Clean Water Fund (which expires in 2034) and updated every two years — directs the Clean Water Council to fund grants for testing and remediation, cites projects like a $330 million Woodbury treatment plant funded in part by the 3M settlement, and responds to more PFAS-positive residential wells and a PFAS plume moving toward the Mississippi and St. Croix rivers.

Environment Health

Hao Nguyen enters Hennepin County Attorney race

Oct 09 Breaking TC 2

Senior prosecutor Hao Nguyen has declared his candidacy for Hennepin County Attorney, becoming the second person to announce a run and one of four publicly declared contenders. Nguyen has 15 years of experience as a prosecutor and previously served as a corrections officer, police officer and sheriff’s deputy.

Legal Elections

Matt Pelikan launches Hennepin County attorney bid

Oct 09 Breaking TC 2

Matt Pelikan has officially launched a campaign for Hennepin County Attorney, declaring his candidacy in the emerging 2026 contest. FOX 9 lists him among four declared contenders, noting his entry follows incumbent Mary Moriarty’s decision not to seek re-election.

Legal Elections Local Government

Four candidates now running for Hennepin County Attorney

Oct 09 Dev TC 1

Four candidates have publicly announced runs for Hennepin County Attorney ahead of the November 2026 election: Anders Folk (former acting U.S. attorney and DOJ official), state Rep. Cedrick Frazier, Hao Nguyen (former assistant Ramsey County attorney), and Matt Pelikan (Minneapolis attorney). The Fox9 roundup summarizes each campaign announcement, cites endorsements (Andy Luger for Folk, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flangan and several mayors for Frazier), and notes the race is open after incumbent Mary Moriarty said she will not seek reelection.

Elections Legal Local Government

Duos raises $130M to expand aging-at-home care

Oct 09 Breaking TC 1

Duos, a Minnesota digital-health startup launched by a former Optum executive to help seniors age at home, announced Oct. 9, 2025 that it raised $130 million in a funding round led by investors including FTV and Forerunner. The infusion ranks among the largest investments for a Minnesota startup this year and positions the company to scale its senior-care technology and services from its Twin Cities base.

Business & Economy Health

Former Minnesota trooper pleads guilty

Oct 09 Dev TC 1

Jeremy Plonski, a former Minnesota state trooper and National Guard member, pleaded guilty in federal court to producing and distributing child pornography after investigators say he made and shared video(s) showing sexual abuse of an infant. The federal plea was filed this week; separate Scott County charges for first‑degree criminal sexual conduct related to the same alleged video remain pending. Authorities including the FBI and state law‑enforcement leaders have described the allegations as horrifying and say the case remains under active review ahead of sentencing and state proceedings.

Public Safety Courts/Legal

Burnsville Meridian Pointe Apartments sold for $63M

Oct 09 Breaking TC 1

Meridian Pointe Apartments, a 339-unit complex in Burnsville (Dakota County), was sold in a $63 million transaction to a New York–based multifamily real-estate buyer, the Minneapolis / St. Paul Business Journal reported on Oct. 9, 2025. The deal transfers ownership of a large metro rental property and could affect management, rents, or operations for the hundreds of tenants who live there.

Business & Economy Housing

Breezy, warmer Thursday with light shower chance

Oct 09 Dev TC 1

FOX 9 meteorologists forecast a warmer, breezy Thursday for the Twin Cities metro (Oct. 9, 2025), with highs near 70°F and southerly winds of 10–20+ mph. Clouds increase through the afternoon with an isolated late shower possible; milder overnight lows in the 50s are expected and sunshine returns Friday with highs in the 60s.

Weather Local News

Largest Twin Cities credit unions, 2025 rankings

Oct 09 TC 1

The Minneapolis / St. Paul Business Journal published a ranked list of the region’s largest credit unions on Oct. 9, 2025, reporting June 30, 2025 balances and metrics. The list names Wings Financial Credit Union as the largest with $9.48 billion in assets and provides assets, year-over-year asset changes, net income, membership counts and local executive contacts for the top institutions in the metro.

Business & Economy Banking and Finance

Isanti sheriff’s foundation treasurer charged in $100K swindle

Oct 09 Breaking TC 1

Isanti County Sheriff's Foundation treasurer Kim Nordenstrom has been charged with two counts of theft by swindle after a criminal complaint alleges she diverted nearly $100,000 in grant money that was to be stewarded for Project 612, a Minneapolis nonprofit serving at-risk youth. Investigators from the Chisago County Sheriff's Office say Nordenstrom used funds for personal debt and farm equipment; the case is filed in Isanti County District Court and could carry up to 20 years on the theft count.

Legal Public Safety

Shipt driver accused of stealing $16K from Target orders

Oct 08 Breaking TC 1

A Minneapolis man, Khang Huu Hoang, 25, was charged in Hennepin County with theft by swindle after court documents say he marked Target deliveries as delivered then took the merchandise himself. Investigators found empty Target boxes in an apartment building tied to Hoang and recovered more than $6,000 during a search; total undelivered items linked to him are valued at about $16,541.69. Hoang is in custody and has a first court appearance set for Oct. 27, 2025.

Public Safety Legal

Hundreds of Minnesota clergy demand assault-weapons ban

Oct 08 Dev TC 1

About 750 clergy from across Minnesota gathered at the State Capitol in St. Paul, delivering a letter to Gov. Tim Walz and lawmakers calling for a special legislative session to ban assault-style weapons and high-capacity magazines. The group — representing more than 60 of the state's 87 counties — launched a "Seven Days of Prayer and Action," holding noon prayer vigils on the Capitol steps for a week; the action was organized in response to the Annunciation Church mass shooting that killed two children and wounded dozens.

Local Government Public Safety

Robbinsdale agrees $3.2M police-shooting settlement

Oct 08 Dev TC 1

The City of Robbinsdale has agreed to pay $3.2 million to resolve a civil lawsuit arising from a police shooting, the Star Tribune reports. The settlement covers claims tied to the incident in Robbinsdale and represents a significant municipal liability with implications for the city's budget and police oversight.

Legal Public Safety

Ron Schutz launches Minnesota attorney general campaign

Oct 08 Breaking TC 1

Republican Ron Schutz has announced he is entering the race for Minnesota attorney general, according to a Star Tribune report. The campaign entry makes Schutz a declared candidate in the statewide contest that will shape legal priorities affecting Minneapolis–Saint Paul residents and local governments.

Elections Legal

Daniel Rosen confirmed as U.S. Attorney for Minnesota

Oct 08 Breaking TC 1

The U.S. Senate confirmed Minneapolis attorney Daniel Rosen as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota by a 51-47 vote. Rosen, principal of Rosen LLC with about 30 years of federal and state litigation experience and a University of Minnesota graduate, was nominated by President Trump in May after recommendations from Minnesota's Republican congressional delegation; he will take over federal prosecutorial leadership previously handled by acting U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson following Andy Luger's resignation.

Legal Public Safety

Frost advisory for Twin Cities; freeze warning for central and northern Minnesota

Oct 08 Dev TC 3

A frost advisory is in effect for the Twin Cities until 8 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025, and a freeze warning covers most of central and northern Minnesota until 10 a.m.; overnight lows are expected in the 30s in the Twin Cities and the 20s farther north (the Twin Cities’ average first 32°F day is Oct. 18). Daytime highs Wednesday should rebound to about 64°F in the Twin Cities and generally the 50s–60s statewide with southwestern Minnesota near 70°F, with a warming trend into the upper 60s–low 70s Thursday and back into the 70s by Friday and through the weekend.

Public Safety Weather

Evereve doubling Edina headquarters, plans hiring surge

Oct 08 Breaking TC 1

Evereve, a women’s fashion retailer headquartered in Edina, announced on Oct. 8, 2025 a multiyear plan to double its Edina headquarters footprint, double its corporate workforce, and triple its digital revenue as it expands operations in the Twin Cities suburb. The move signals increased local hiring and investment in digital channels tied to the company’s Edina base.

Business & Economy Jobs/Employment

Anoka extends downtown social district through 2025

Oct 07 Dev TC 1

The Anoka City Council voted Oct. 6, 2025 to extend its downtown 'social district' open-container rules through the end of 2025, allowing patrons to legally carry beer, wine and cocktails within a defined area of downtown and Riverfront Park from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The program includes a color-coded sign system for participating businesses, requires drinks to be served in special recyclable plastic cups, and excludes use during the city's Halloween parades; the council also approved allowing the expanded hours annually going forward.

Local Government Public Safety

Ramsey County to pay $100,000 settlement

Oct 07 Breaking TC 1

Ramsey County has agreed to pay $100,000 to a former detainee of the county’s Juvenile Detention Center, the Twin Cities–area news outlet reported on Oct. 7, 2025. The payment was announced by county officials (or reported by the paper) and concerns a former juvenile held at the Ramsey County facility; the action raises questions about the county’s handling of the underlying claim and potential oversight or policy implications.

Local Government Courts/Legal

St. Paul bar customer dies after security guard’s punch; charges filed

Oct 07 Breaking TC 3

A St. Paul bar customer, 33-year-old Melvin A. Martinez Altamirano of Madison, Wisconsin, has died after suffering a devastating brain bleed following a punch by 28-year-old security guard Jose Eucario Conejo Marquez of North St. Paul, with surveillance video showing Marquez step between the couple and strike Altamirano in the parking lot as pepper spray was deployed. Marquez was arrested Sunday night, remains in custody at the Ramsey County Jail, and has been formally charged with one count of first-degree manslaughter.

Public Safety Legal Courts/Legal

L.L. Bean to open Maple Grove Arbor Lakes store

Oct 07 Breaking TC 1

L.L. Bean announced plans to open a new store at the Arbor Lakes retail complex in Maple Grove, Minnesota, scheduled for 2026. The store will consolidate space by replacing four former retail units at the development, marking the retailer’s expansion into the Twin Cities regional market and altering occupancy at a major suburban shopping hub.

Business & Economy Retail

SSI recipients get two payments in October

Oct 07 Dev TC 1

The Social Security Administration will disburse Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits twice in October — on Oct. 1 and Oct. 31 — because November's scheduled payment date (Nov. 1) falls on a weekend, prompting the SSA to issue November benefits on the last business day of October. The government shutdown is not expected to interrupt Social Security payments, though a COLA announcement tied to benefits could be delayed.

Government/Regulatory Economy & Benefits

USDA warns HelloFresh spinach may contain listeria

Oct 07 Breaking TC 1

The U.S. Department of Agriculture issued a warning that HelloFresh meals containing spinach may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a foodborne pathogen. The advisory was reported Oct. 7, 2025 by TwinCities.com and affects HelloFresh customers nationwide, including residents of the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro, who should check USDA and HelloFresh notices for product details and safety instructions.

Health Public Safety

Outdoor Retailer to move trade show to Minneapolis

Oct 07 Breaking TC 1

Outdoor Retailer announced it will relocate its major outdoor-industry expo to Minneapolis, scheduling a reimagined three-day trade show for Aug. 19–21, 2026 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Organizers say the move positions the show to focus on collaboration and innovation, and city leaders expect convention activity to bring measurable economic benefits to the metro.

Business & Economy Events

Tile Shop to Delist in $6.60 Cash-Out Deal

Oct 07 Dev TC 1

Minnesota-based retailer Tile Shop announced plans to exit public markets via a cash-out offer of $6.60 per share, a move the Business Journal reports is the company's second attempt to delist since 2019. The proposal would take the firm private, with the cash-per-share figure and the timing of the announcement provided by company filings and the Business Journal report.

Business & Economy Corporate

Wells Fargo raises checking fee 50%

Oct 07 Breaking TC 1

Wells Fargo announced Oct. 7, 2025 that it will increase the monthly fee on its common checking account by 50%, a change that will raise costs for customers in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro as well as nationwide. The change was reported by the Twin Cities Business Journal and stems from the bank’s pricing update communicated to customers.

Business & Economy

U.S. News ranks two Minnesota children's hospitals

Oct 07 Breaking TC 1

U.S. News & World Report's annual Best Children's Hospitals list (published Oct. 7, 2025) named Mayo Clinic and M Health Fairview among the top children's hospitals in the Midwest. The recognition highlights M Health Fairview's standing in the Twin Cities metro and Mayo Clinic's regional prominence in Rochester, information that may influence patient referrals and consumer choices.

Health Business & Economy

Loma Bonita Market to Open in Richfield

Oct 07 Breaking TC 1

Loma Bonita Market, a locally owned Mexican grocery chain, will occupy the long-vacant Rainbow Foods building at The Hub in Richfield and is set to open in the next few weeks. The store — the chain's largest at more than 50,000 square feet — will include a bakery, butcher shop, taqueria and tortilleria, and city officials say the project will revitalize the strip-mall area and expand grocery options for local residents.

Business & Economy Local Government

Minnesota DFL probes Minneapolis DFL mailers amid Fateh endorsement dispute

Oct 07 Dev TC 3

Following a contentious review that saw the Minnesota DFL State Executive Committee vote 40–7 to uphold the revocation of Sen. Omar Fateh’s Minneapolis mayoral endorsement and form a subcommittee to ensure convention compliance, the party has opened an investigation into postcards mailed by the Minneapolis DFL that featured Fateh. A complaint to the DFL’s Constitution, Rules and Bylaws Committee alleges the mailer contradicted the party’s retraction, while Minneapolis DFL says the postcards were delivered to its printer before a leaked draft ruling and bulk-mail delays explain late arrival; party leaders cited a “substantially flawed” first ballot and complications after the convention operator suffered a stroke, and Hennepin County judges previously fined Fateh’s campaign $500 for using the endorsement logo after it was rescinded.

Local Government Elections

All five St. Paul mayoral candidates speak at Gloria Dei forum

Oct 07 Breaking TC 2

All five St. Paul mayoral candidates — incumbent Melvin Carter, Kaohly Her, Adam Dullinger, Yan Chen and Mike Hilborn — spoke at a forum held at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church and organized by Fair Vote Minnesota. Candidates addressed public safety, housing and property taxes, with early voting already under way ahead of Election Day on Nov. 4, 2025.

Local Government Elections

Minnesota school board members urge ban on trans girls' sports

Oct 07 Dev TC 1

A coalition of school board members from 40 Minnesota districts sent a letter this week to the Minnesota Department of Education, the Minnesota State High School League, the attorney general and the governor, asking state leaders to bar transgender athletes assigned male at birth from competing in girls' sports. The move follows a recent U.S. Department of Education finding that Minnesota is in violation of Title IX and comes amid a separate lawsuit by an advocacy group challenging current participation policies; the case has seen a denied emergency injunction and an appeal to the Court of Appeals.

Education Legal Local Government

St. Francis police: school threat claims fabricated

Oct 07 Dev TC 1

St. Francis police investigated reports that a middle school student threatened the school after a loaded rifle magazine was found near the football bleachers following a Thursday night sporting event; by Monday officers said the threat claims — including an alleged Snapchat post — were fabricated by other students and that the magazine belonged to a person who said they unintentionally left it at the event. The department says there is no evidence of any real threat to students, staff or the public, though the rumors prompted some parents to keep children home.

Public Safety Education

Former Golden Valley chief alleges department racism

Oct 06 Dev TC 1

Virgil Green, who resigned as Golden Valley police chief after four months and a period on paid administrative leave, told FOX 9 that he felt unsupported and believes racism remains within the city’s police department. His resignation followed two internal investigations — one into the alleged improper release of body-worn-camera footage and another into alleged interference with an internal probe — and comes amid deep staffing turnover at the department.

Local Government Public Safety

I-494 overnight closure for Portland Ave bridge work

Oct 06 Breaking TC 1

MnDOT will close I-494 between I-35W and Highway 77 overnight Friday at 10 p.m. through Saturday at 5 a.m. to pour concrete for the Portland Avenue bridge decks; drivers are detoured to Highway 62. Two ramps — I-494 east to Lyndale Avenue and I-35W north to eastbound I-494 — are scheduled to close starting Sunday night, Oct. 12 and will remain closed through November.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Toro buys Canadian vacuum truck maker Tornado

Oct 06 Breaking TC 1

The Toro Co., a Bloomington-based manufacturer, announced on Oct. 6, 2025 that it will acquire Tornado Infrastructure Equipment, a Canadian maker of vacuum excavation trucks, for $200 million to expand its construction product lineup and establish a manufacturing footprint in Canada. The deal aims to broaden Toro’s presence in construction markets and add specialized vacuum truck capabilities to its portfolio.

Business & Economy Manufacturing

WalletHub: Minnesota ranks eighth-safest state

Oct 06 TC 1

A WalletHub study released Oct. 6, 2025 ranked Minnesota the eighth-safest state in America for 2025, citing 52 indicators across personal/residential safety, financial safety, road safety, workplace safety and emergency preparedness. The analysis puts Minnesota at No. 2 for road safety but flags lower performance in residential safety and emergency preparedness, with WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo quoted describing the methodology and factors.

Public Safety Health

Minnesota Sen. Jim Carlson to Retire in 2026

Oct 06 Breaking TC 1

State Sen. Jim Carlson (DFL‑Eagan), who has represented Senate District 52 since first being elected in 2006, announced Oct. 6, 2025 that he will retire at the end of his current term. Carlson — a five‑term senator who chaired the Senate Elections Committee and served on Judiciary, Public Safety, State and Local Government and Veterans, and Transportation committees — cited satisfaction with his legislative accomplishments; his seat will be contested Nov. 3, 2026.

Local Government Elections

Medical examiner rules March Minneapolis death a homicide

Oct 06 Breaking TC 1

The medical examiner has determined that a man who died from a head injury sustained in March in Minneapolis was the victim of a homicide, according to a Star Tribune report. The official ruling reclassifies the March injury after autopsy review and is expected to inform an ongoing police investigation.

Public Safety Legal

John Ireland Blvd bridge closed until summer 2026

Oct 06 Breaking TC 1

MnDOT announced the John Ireland Boulevard bridge over I-94 in St. Paul will close starting Monday, Oct. 6, 2025, for a teardown and rebuild and is expected to remain closed until August 2026. The long-term project is part of repairs to nine bridges on I-94 and I-35E in St. Paul; MnDOT published driver and pedestrian detours and warned of construction noise and traffic impacts for nearby residents and commuters.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Man critically wounded after strip-club fight

Oct 06 Breaking TC 1

A dispute inside a Minneapolis strip club spilled into the street, where a man was shot and critically wounded, Minneapolis police told the Star Tribune. Police say investigators are on scene and the shooting remains under investigation; the victim was taken to a hospital and no further details or arrests have been publicly announced.

Public Safety Local Crime

Minnesota wildland firefighter dies during Idaho burn

Oct 06 Breaking TC 2

Isabella "Bella" Oscarson, 26, of Watertown, Minnesota, died while participating in a prescribed burn in Idaho. Oscarson began her career with the Wildland Fire Conservation Corps of Minnesota and Iowa, was trained by the Minnesota DNR and served as a lead firefighter near Grand Rapids before taking a job with the Idaho Department of Lands in March; Minnesota has honored her with flags at half-staff as officials, including Gov. Tim Walz and state DNR supervisors, praised her service.

Government/Regulatory Public Safety

Ramsey deputies dodge gunfire; man shot

Oct 05 Breaking TC 1

Ramsey County deputies investigating a reported stolen vehicle in a parking lot off Maryland Avenue East near Herbert Street in St. Paul were forced to take cover Friday evening when someone opened fire across the lot. A 39-year-old man was shot in the chest; deputies applied chest seals and transported him to a hospital, and the St. Paul Police Department is leading the investigation. At least one bullet struck a squad car; officials say the shooting appears unrelated to the traffic stop and the victim is expected to survive.

Public Safety Law Enforcement

Blue, green ribbons along TC Marathon for Annunciation

Oct 05 Dev TC 1

Organizers and volunteers have installed hundreds of blue and green ribbons along about four miles of Summit Avenue in St. Paul to honor victims of the Annunciation Church mass shooting during this weekend’s Twin Cities Marathon. The display — organized by Kristen Lyrek with help from volunteers and coordinated with group Bows of Love — runs up to the marathon finish line; family members of one victim will run in tribute during the race.

Public Safety Education

Twin Cities hit record 90°F Saturday; cooler weather expected Sunday

Oct 05 Dev TC 3

Forecasts had warned of record warmth — even a possible 91°F — and gusty 30–40 mph winds Saturday with overnight lows in the low 70s Friday night. Saturday’s high reached 90°F in the Twin Cities, topping the previous 89°F record, and other Minnesota locations also set records (Hibbing 83°F, Brainerd 86°F, Rochester 86°F, Duluth 84°F); cooler weather is expected Sunday with highs near 78°F and a further cooldown into the 60s next week as winds shift.

Public Health Public Safety Environment

Andrew Nietz charged with murder, arson in NE Minneapolis duplex fire that killed Housten Housley

Oct 04 Breaking TC 3

Around 11:20 p.m. Wednesday, a fire on the 900 block of 22nd Avenue NE gutted a northeast Minneapolis duplex, killing 39-year-old Housten Housley — firefighters found him on the first floor, three other residents were displaced and aided by the Red Cross, and the unit where Housley was found sustained extensive damage and heavy flames. Authorities have charged longtime friend Andrew Nietz with second-degree murder and arson, saying surveillance showed him returning to the scene while crews were present, police recovered Housley’s car being driven by Nietz and observed scratches on his hands, arm and face, and court records list prior arson convictions in 2012 and 2023.

Legal Public Safety

Hennepin County seeks help identifying two 1990s bodies

Oct 04 Dev TC 1

The Hennepin County Medical Examiner this week released details and images seeking public help to identify two men found dead in the Mississippi River in 1995 and 1996 in Minneapolis. Officials provided forensic approximations, clothing and personal-item descriptions, locations where the bodies were recovered, and a contact number for tips as part of an active effort to close the cold cases.

Public Safety Local Government

Twin Cities Marathon adds heat preparations as yellow-flag alert issued

Oct 04 Dev TC 2

Twin Cities Marathon organizers and Twin Cities in Motion medical directors have issued yellow‑flag heat conditions for Saturday and Sunday but say the races are still a "full go" while adding extra preparations. Measures include 14 water stations along the courses and planning "as though they’re going to be red flag conditions," with organizers noting Saturday events finish by noon while Sunday’s marathoners are expected to finish around 2:30–3 p.m., affecting heat exposure.

Events Weather Public Safety

Forest Lake superintendent Steve Massey to retire

Oct 03 Breaking TC 1

Forest Lake Schools Superintendent Steve Massey announced plans to retire, according to a TwinCities.com article published Oct. 3, 2025. The announcement concerns leadership at the public school district serving Forest Lake in Washington County and is expected to prompt local officials and the school board to begin transition planning.

Education Local Government

Golden Valley police chief resigns after probe

Oct 03 Dev TC 1

Golden Valley announced the resignation of Police Chief Virgil Green after internal investigations concluded he released confidential body-worn camera footage from an active criminal investigation to a local news outlet and improperly attempted to interfere with an internal affairs probe. Green was placed on administrative leave in June (initially placed on leave in late May), and a city memorandum says he acknowledged the mistake; City Manager Noah Schuchman thanked assistant chiefs for interim leadership and said a search for a new chief will be announced.

Local Government Public Safety

I-35W Burnsville overnight lane closures start Oct. 6

Oct 03 Dev TC 1

MnDOT announced overnight lane reductions and targeted closures on I-35W in Burnsville beginning Monday, Oct. 6, to allow crews to stripe and deck the westbound Highway 13 bridge. Southbound I-35W will be closed nightly from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Oct. 6–8 while northbound is reduced to one lane; then northbound will be closed nightly 9 p.m.–5 a.m. Oct. 8–10, with detours and traffic impacts between I-494 and the I-35/I-35E/I-35W split.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Prep Network lands private equity investment in Plymouth

Oct 03 Dev TC 1

Plymouth-based sports-media company Prep Network announced its first private-equity investment Oct. 3, 2025, a deal the company says will fund expansion of its sports-media operations. The business, which began as a side hustle and now employs about 60 full-time staff, intends to use the capital to scale content, technology and distribution from its Twin Cities base.

Business & Economy Technology

Driver sentenced for deadly Lyndale Avenue crash

Oct 03 Dev TC 1

Talon Covie-Cadrell Walker, 30, was sentenced Oct. 2, 2025 to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to criminal vehicular homicide and related counts for an October 2024 DWI crash on Lyndale Avenue in Minneapolis that killed 26-year-old Natalie Gubbay and injured 10 others. Authorities say Walker was driving over 100 mph, over the legal alcohol limit, and an open bottle of liquor was found in his Chevy Avalanche; the collision involved seven vehicles and produced significant force that spun two cars 180 degrees.

Public Safety Legal

North Loop building lands 50,000-s.f. Stagwell lease

Oct 03 Dev TC 1

A North Loop office building in Minneapolis has signed Stagwell to a 50,000-square-foot lease, the latest major tenant commitment downtown. The property, purchased last fall by Crowe Cos., has been rebranded and is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation that the owner says will reposition the asset for creative-office tenants.

Business & Economy Real Estate

St. Paul man jailed 10 years for I-94 crash

Oct 03 Breaking TC 1

A St. Paul man was sentenced to 10 years in prison after driving about 100 mph and causing a deadly crash off Interstate 94 in Minneapolis, the Twin Cities news site reported on Oct. 3, 2025. The sentencing resolves a criminal case tied to a fatal motor-vehicle collision that occurred on the I-94 corridor in Minneapolis and is being reported as a matter of public safety and legal accountability.

Public Safety Courts/Legal

Fridley man indicted in thallium poisoning death

Oct 03 Dev TC 1

Stuart Hanmer, 35, a Fridley resident, was indicted by a grand jury on a count of premeditated first-degree murder and faces an existing second-degree murder charge after his roommate Cody Ernst, 33, died of thallium poisoning. Court records say Ernst fell ill May 15, was hospitalized and died June 22; prosecutors cite internet searches and three purchases of thallium found in connection with Hanmer, and bail was raised to $5 million without conditions ($2.5 million with conditions). Hanmer remains in custody at the Stearns County Jail pending further court proceedings.

Public Safety Legal

Kaohly Her outlines St. Paul downtown plan

Oct 03 Dev TC 1

State Rep. Kaohly Her, a leading challenger to St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, told FOX 9 she would prioritize improving city operations (permitting and licensing) and immediately work with partners to structure an "urban wealth fund" to finance downtown investment. Her framed the approach as combining operational reforms with an investment vehicle leveraging city assets to turn the Downtown Investment Strategy into concrete projects ahead of the Nov. 4, 2025 mayoral election.

Elections Local Government

Annunciation students' cards reach the Pope

Oct 03 Dev TC 1

Students at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis created cards and acts of service to mark the school’s feast day as part of healing after an August mass shooting that killed two students and injured nearly two dozen. Archbishop Bernard Hebda personally delivered the students' cards and a centennial button to Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, and said the Pope promised prayers for the families and the Archdiocese.

Education Religion

Minnesota doctors demand assault-weapon ban

Oct 02 Dev TC 1

At a news conference at the State Capitol, physicians who treated victims of the Aug. 27 Annunciation Church mass shooting in Minneapolis urged lawmakers to call a special legislative session and enact statewide gun measures, including bans on assault-style weapons and high-capacity magazines, mandatory locked-and-unloaded storage, and removal of the state preemption preventing local governments from adopting stricter firearm rules.

Public Safety Health Government/Regulatory

West St. Paul police add therapy dog Rocky

Oct 02 Dev TC 1

West St. Paul Police Department has adopted an abandoned eight-month-old black lab found in April at the Thompson Park pavilion and named him Rocky. Officer Isabelle Lalor is training Rocky with Soldier’s Six to serve as a therapy dog on the department’s peer-support team; training is ongoing and a K-9 foundation fundraiser is scheduled for Oct. 5 in Lilydale.

Public Safety Community

ICE detains roofing crew in St. Paul

Oct 02 Breaking TC 1

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents detained an entire roofing crew working in St. Paul’s North End neighborhood on Thursday morning, witnesses and immigrant-advocacy groups said. Advocacy organizations and state Rep. Athena Hollins condemned the action and organized a 5:30 p.m. vigil at Marydale Park while FOX 9 has sought confirmation from DHS/ICE.

Public Safety Legal

Dunwoody College enrollment hits 17-year high

Oct 02 Dev TC 1

Dunwoody College of Technology in Minneapolis reports enrollment reaching a 17-year high as of an Oct. 2, 2025 report, with college leaders attributing the surge to strengthened industry partnerships and demand for technical-skills programs. The growth is presented as bolstering the Twin Cities skilled-trades pipeline and meeting employer needs for machinists and other technicians.

Education Business & Economy

Driver in Andover school bus crash identified as Dustin King

Oct 02 Breaking TC 2

Authorities identified the pickup driver killed in the head-on Andover crash with a school bus as Dustin King, according to a GoFundMe page set up by a family friend. Deputies said the pickup, which was towing a trailer, crossed the center line on Roanoke Street at 175th Avenue NW (just south of the Rum River) and struck the school bus; the driver was pronounced dead at the scene and two people on the bus were injured.

Public Safety Education Transit & Infrastructure

Best man arrested after Maplewood wedding shooting; stolen gun recovered

Oct 02 Breaking TC 2

Authorities say a 36-year-old wedding guest was shot in both legs during an argument at a Sept. 27 wedding in Maplewood. Ramsey County deputies arrested a 34-year-old South St. Paul man identified as the wedding's best man on Oct. 1 in St. Paul and recovered two guns — including one reportedly stolen — and he has been arrested but not yet formally charged.

Public Safety Legal

Minnesota SNAP benefits increase, new monthly amounts

Oct 02 Breaking TC 1

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s annual cost-of-living update raises maximum SNAP monthly allotments in Minnesota effective Oct. 1, 2025, with new household amounts published using the USDA Thrifty Food Plan. The change yields modest increases for most household sizes (e.g., $298 for one person, $994 for four), while the article also notes recent federal legislation that tightened SNAP work and eligibility rules and will reduce some state reimbursements.

Government/Regulatory Health

Roseville parents charged after toddler falls from balcony

Oct 02 Dev TC 1

Roseville parents Aisha Ali, 30, and Hanad Hassan Jama, 35, were charged with manslaughter after their 15-month-old daughter fell from a two-story apartment balcony on July 6, 2025, and died the following day. Police and a criminal complaint say property management warned the couple in 2024 after seeing children hanging from the balcony, and investigators found a torn screen door and a partially open sliding door at the Lexington Avenue North apartment building.

Public Safety Courts/Legal

U.S. Bank Center in St. Paul set for auction

Oct 02 Breaking TC 1

The U.S. Bank Center, a 380,170-square-foot office tower in downtown St. Paul owned by Madison Equities, is going to auction with a $1 million starting bid, the BizJ reports. The building was part of a 10-building portfolio put up for sale last year and saw a major tenant contraction after U.S. Bank relinquished about 118,000 square feet last year.

Business & Economy Real Estate

Plymouth daycare teacher sentenced for abuse

Oct 02 Dev TC 1

Katie Voigt, a former teacher at Lil' Explorers Child Care Center in Plymouth, pleaded guilty in July to two counts of malicious punishment of a child after videos showed her yelling at and pushing toddlers. Hennepin County court documents filed Sept. 30, 2025 say she received stayed sentences (no jail if no further violations), must complete 10 days of community service within six months, undergo anger-awareness training and therapy, and is barred from working with children or vulnerable adults; 16 families have since hired a law firm to investigate.

Legal Education

Twin Cities suburbs face fierce apartment competition

Oct 02 TC 1

A RentCafe report cited by the Twin Cities Business Journal on Oct. 2, 2025, shows rental demand in Twin Cities suburbs has surged, with about 12 prospective renters competing for each apartment that hits the market—up from 10 a year earlier—outpacing competition in many large U.S. markets. The increase signals tightening supply and growing pressure on affordability for metro-area renters across the Minneapolis–Saint Paul suburbs.

Housing Business & Economy

Sylvan franchise owner files bankruptcy, closes multiple Twin Cities tutoring centers

Oct 02 TC 2

Paul Ripon, the franchise owner of multiple Sylvan Learning centers in the Twin Cities, filed for bankruptcy in U.S. Bankruptcy Court and listed more than a dozen creditors after reporting debts exceeding $600,000 — including about $205,000 owed to Sylvan Corporation and an estimated $100,000 owed to individual customers. Sylvan revoked Ripon’s tutoring licenses, forcing closures of centers in Edina, Maple Grove, Roseville and Woodbury as the Minnesota school year begins; in an owner email he wrote, "There are no funds available at this moment."

Education Business & Economy

50 sticks of suspected dynamite prompt Medina evacuation

Oct 01 Breaking TC 1

A Medina resident discovered a container holding 50 sticks of suspected dynamite in an old garage on the 4600 block of Mohawk Drive just after 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, prompting an immediate evacuation of the immediate area. The Minneapolis bomb squad responded, removed the explosives, and police said there was no danger to the public once the scene was cleared, according to a Medina Police Department press release.

Public Safety Local Government

Weidner buys downtown Minneapolis apartments for $77M

Oct 01 Dev TC 1

Weidner Acquisitions purchased a 13-story apartment building in downtown Minneapolis for $77 million and has rebranded the property The Grand Mill District Apartments. The sale, reported Oct. 1, 2025, expands Weidner’s Twin Cities portfolio and follows the building’s recent summer listing.

Business & Economy Housing

South St. Paul council member's daycare license reinstated

Oct 01 Dev TC 1

South St. Paul City Council member Pam Bakken had her in-home daycare license conditionally reinstated after appealing the state's revocation tied to a Dec. 6, 2024 incident in which a 3-year-old tested positive for methamphetamine. Dakota County prosecutors rescinded a maltreatment determination, saying they could not prove exposure occurred at the daycare beyond a reasonable doubt, but a separate DHS order keeps the facility closed pending conditions; residents have launched a recall petition with over 2,500 signatures.

Local Government Public Safety

Omar Jamal released after settlement following ICE arrest

Oct 01 Breaking TC 2

Omar Jamal, a Somali community advocate who has served as a civilian Community Service Officer and liaison to the Somali community with the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office since 2020, was arrested by ICE in Minneapolis on Aug. 29 and later released after a mutually agreed-upon settlement that resulted in a court order directing his release, prompting a lawsuit over his detention. DHS said Jamal had a final order of removal issued in 2011 and publicly listed alleged prior offenses, while Jamal’s attorney thanked the local U.S. Attorney’s Office and ICE personnel for their cooperation.

Local Government Legal Public Safety

Minneapolis man Robert Warren charged in Loring Park double homicide

Oct 01 Breaking TC 2

Minneapolis man Robert Warren, 51, has been charged in the Loring Park double homicide after surveillance footage allegedly showed him ambushing two people as they exited an apartment elevator; both victims were killed and a shotgun and shells were recovered. Hennepin County prosecutors filed two counts of second-degree murder with intent and two counts of possessing a firearm after a violent-crime conviction; Warren, who has prior felony convictions for domestic assault and third-degree assault, was arrested at the scene and is scheduled for a first court appearance on Oct. 1, 2025.

Courts/Legal Legal Public Safety

Nonprofits convert former Havenbrook rentals to single-family homes

Sep 30 Dev TC 1

Nonprofits have acquired and are renovating hundreds of former Havenbrook rental properties in north Minneapolis after an Attorney General investigation and settlement over poor conditions. About 345 homes went to local nonprofits, roughly 110 have been renovated and sold to single-family buyers, and the AG secured roughly $2 million in payments plus about $2 million in rent forgiveness for affected tenants.

Housing Legal

U.S. Bank to spend $200M yearly renovating branches

Sep 30 Dev TC 1

U.S. Bancorp announced it will invest $200 million a year to renovate its retail-branch network, beginning with upgrades in five key markets and signaling a strategic reappraisal of physical locations as digital banking grows. The plan, announced Sept. 30, 2025, implicates branches in the Twin Cities—where U.S. Bank is headquartered—and could affect branch operations, customer access and local construction work.

Business & Economy Corporate

Feds uncover immigration‑fraud ring in Twin Cities

Sep 30 Breaking TC 1

Federal authorities — USCIS, ICE and the FBI — said Operation Twin Shields, conducted in the Twin Cities Sept. 19–28, flagged roughly 1,000 suspect cases involving about 900 people for sham marriages, forged documents and fake death certificates. Officials reported four arrests, 42 notices to appear in immigration court, and highlighted abuses tied to Uniting for Ukraine sponsorships and a fake Kenyan death certificate used to allege a spouse was deceased.

Legal Public Safety

New Brighton man charged in Frogtown fatal shooting

Sep 30 Breaking TC 1

TwinCities.com reports that a man from New Brighton was arrested and charged in connection with a fatal shooting in the Frogtown neighborhood of St. Paul. The arrest and charges were reported Sept. 30, 2025; police say the incident involved a deadly shooting in the neighborhood and authorities have moved to file criminal charges against the suspect.

Public Safety Legal

DOJ sues Minnesota, Minneapolis over 'sanctuary' policies

Sep 30 Breaking TC 1

The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit on Sept. 29, 2025, against Minnesota, the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Hennepin County, Attorney General Keith Ellison, and Sheriff Dawanna S. Witt, alleging policies that obstruct federal immigration enforcement. DOJ, citing a DHS directive, claims local noncooperation results in the release of removable offenders; Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey vowed to fight the lawsuit, calling it politically motivated.

Legal Local Government

MnDOT holds first-ever statewide safety stand-down Sept. 29 after two Twin Cities work-zone deaths

Sep 30 Dev TC 2

The Minnesota Department of Transportation will hold its first-ever statewide safety stand-down on Sept. 29, pausing projects and requiring all employees to reflect and recommit to work-zone safety in honor of two contractors killed in Twin Cities work zones last week. One worker was struck by a construction vehicle with a boom on I-35W in Burnsville on Sept. 24 and another by a dump truck on Hwy. 610 in Maple Grove on Sept. 26; MnDOT says it is coordinating with the State Patrol and Minnesota OSHA on investigations, noting the deaths are Minnesota’s fifth and sixth construction-related fatalities this year.

Transit & Infrastructure Public Safety

Nilfisk closing Brooklyn Park plant; 105 layoffs

Sep 29 Breaking TC 1

Nilfisk, a professional cleaning equipment manufacturer, will close its plant in Brooklyn Park, cutting 105 jobs. The shutdown affects Hennepin County workers in the Twin Cities metro; the company confirmed the closure and workforce reductions.

Business & Economy

Driver charged in Maplewood fatal hit-and-run; intoxication alleged

Sep 29 Breaking TC 3

Ramsey County prosecutors have charged a driver in a Maplewood fatal hit-and-run that killed a 31-year-old man around 4:30 a.m. on the 2300 block of Maryland Avenue East; the complaint alleges the driver was intoxicated, fled the scene, and then drove roughly two hours to work. Police say a witness saw a large conversion van with a ladder rack near the victim, who was pronounced dead at the scene, and investigators obtained suspected vehicle information and surveillance video, with the Minnesota State Patrol assisting.

Legal Public Safety

Minneapolis man admits twice trying to join ISIS

Sep 29 Breaking TC 1

A Minneapolis resident pleaded guilty in Minnesota court to twice trying to join the Islamic State group, concluding the guilt phase of a terrorism-related case tied to the Twin Cities. The plea was entered in Minneapolis, with sentencing to follow.

Legal Public Safety

Normandale 8500 Tower sells at steep discount

Sep 29 TC 1

The Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal reports that the 8500 Tower at Normandale Lake Office Park in Bloomington has been sold at a price nearly 94% below what the lender paid when it took the property at a 2024 foreclosure auction. The Sept. 29 report cites industry experts on factors contributing to the lower price, highlighting ongoing stress in the Twin Cities office market.

Business & Economy

Trump imposes 100% tariffs on foreign films

Sep 29 Breaking TC 1

President Donald Trump announced Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, that the U.S. will levy 100% tariffs on foreign-made films, a nationwide move that could affect how imported movies are distributed and priced in Minneapolis–Saint Paul. The White House framed the measure as part of its broader tariff policy; implementation details were not immediately available.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

Spirit Airlines to exit MSP in December

Sep 29 Breaking TC 2

Spirit Airlines will end all flights and service at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, exiting the market in December. The move follows the carrier’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing earlier this year and comes after it had already scaled back most of its MSP flights.

Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

Woman killed as car hits St. Paul yard

Sep 28 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul police say a vehicle left the roadway around 2:30 p.m. Sunday and crashed into a backyard along Stinson Street near Oxford Street North, striking and killing a 36-year-old woman. The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating; the cause of the crash is under investigation.

Public Safety Transportation

Pedestrian killed by car and bus in Minneapolis

Sep 28 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis police say a man died after being struck by a white sedan and a bus while crossing mid-block near Franklin Avenue East and Cedar Avenue South just after 3 p.m. Saturday. Both drivers remained at the scene and are cooperating; no arrests or citations have been issued. The victim’s identity and official cause of death have not yet been released.

Public Safety

Bicyclist seriously injured in Stillwater Township crash

Sep 28 Breaking TC 1

A bicyclist was struck and seriously injured in a crash in Stillwater Township on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, according to a Pioneer Press report. The incident occurred in Washington County within the Twin Cities metro; authorities are investigating and additional details were not immediately released.

Public Safety

Pedestrian killed in St. Paul Maryland Avenue crash

Sep 27 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul police say a male pedestrian died after being struck by a vehicle near Maryland Avenue and Clarence Street around 12:45 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 27. The driver, who reported traveling westbound on Maryland and not seeing the victim, showed no signs of impairment, is cooperating with investigators, and has not been arrested as the investigation continues.

Public Safety

Three wounded in downtown Minneapolis shooting

Sep 27 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis police say three men were shot just after 6:30 p.m. Friday on the 700 block of Hennepin Avenue in downtown Minneapolis, and all are expected to survive. The shooter fled before officers arrived, and no arrests have been announced as MPD investigates.

Public Safety

MSP Airport $600M renovation nears completion

Sep 27 Dev TC 1

A Sept. 27 report says a $600 million renovation program at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport is nearing completion. The multi‑year capital project, overseen by the Metropolitan Airports Commission, modernizes facilities at the region’s primary airport and is entering its final phase.

Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

Essentia leaves UMN–Fairview health talks

Sep 26 Dev TC 1

Essentia Health said Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, it has exited negotiations with the University of Minnesota and Fairview Health Services over an 'All‑Minnesota' health solution intended to reshape the state’s academic health system. The move forces UMN and Fairview—operators of major Twin Cities hospitals and clinics—to reassess next steps for a Minnesota‑based model and the future governance of university‑affiliated facilities.

Health Business & Economy

Frey, Fateh clash in first Minneapolis debate

Sep 26 Breaking TC 1

On Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, the Citizens League hosted the first Minneapolis mayoral debate at Westminster Presbyterian, featuring Mayor Jacob Frey, Sen. Omar Fateh, Rev. Dewayne Davis, Jazz Hampton, and Brenda Short. The 82‑minute forum highlighted divisions on encampment clearances and public safety response models, with only Fateh backing rent control; candidates also agreed against using more city funds to keep the Timberwolves/Lynx. Early voting is already open, and another debate is scheduled for Oct. 13.

Elections Local Government

Woman dies after Lake Street encampment shooting; victim identified

Sep 26 Dev TC 7

A woman shot during a Sept. 15 mass shooting at a homeless encampment near E. Lake St. and 28th Ave. S. in Minneapolis died Sept. 18; police identified her as 30-year-old Jacinda Oakgrove, while several others were wounded and tents caught fire during the gunfight. Investigators say the violence stemmed from a drug-territory dispute; Hennepin County prosecutors have charged Trivon D. Leonard Jr., 31, of Illinois, with first-degree riot resulting in death and illegal gun possession after he admitted firing before his gun jammed. The city has increased patrols and erected fencing along the corridor, and MPD is examining whether this shooting is connected to another Lake Street shooting earlier that day.

Legal Local Government Housing

Minnetonka ex-CBP agent pleads to child porn

Sep 26 Dev TC 1

A former U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent from Minnetonka admitted in court to possessing child pornography, according to the Star Tribune. The plea resolves the guilt phase of the case, with sentencing to be scheduled by the court.

Legal Public Safety

Man arrested in Missouri after Waite Park Elementary threat; MPD used license plate reader

Sep 26 Breaking TC 2

A man who allegedly called in a threat to “shoot anything that moves” with an AR-15 at Minneapolis’ Waite Park Elementary just before 11 a.m. on Sept. 25—prompting a lockdown—was tracked using a license plate reader and arrested in Missouri with assistance from the ATF and local police. Investigators say he lived about two miles from the school and had ties to two people there; he was booked into the Jackson County Jail and could face a terroristic threats charge as the investigation continues.

Legal Public Safety Education

Minneapolis gang member pleads to federal fraud

Sep 26 Breaking TC 1

A member of the Minneapolis 'Lows' gang pleaded guilty in federal court to a fraud scheme that used money mules to steal about $220,000, according to federal prosecutors and court filings. The plea resolves part of a case tied to organized criminal activity in Minneapolis and details how proceeds were moved through recruited intermediaries.

Legal Public Safety

Second Twin Cities work-zone death in two days

Sep 26 Dev TC 1

A second highway construction-zone worker has been killed in the Twin Cities on successive days, the Star Tribune reports, one day after a worker died on I-35W in Burnsville. Authorities are investigating both crashes amid renewed concerns about driver behavior and safety in active work zones across the metro.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

St. Paul opens $250M McCarrons water plant

Sep 26 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul Regional Water Services opened its new $250 million McCarrons water treatment plant on Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, upgrading core drinking water infrastructure for St. Paul and nearby suburbs. The facility’s commissioning marks a major capital project for the utility intended to enhance service reliability and capacity for metro customers.

Utilities Transit & Infrastructure

Wild owner vows team will stay in St. Paul

Sep 26 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold said Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, that the NHL franchise will remain in St. Paul, affirming the team’s long‑term home at Xcel Energy Center. The pledge, reported by the Pioneer Press, addresses questions about the club’s future location and signals continued commitment to downtown St. Paul.

Business & Economy Local Government

Westbound I-94 closed I-35E to John Ireland Sept. 26–29; MnDOT detours set

Sep 26 Breaking TC 2

Westbound I-94 will be closed in downtown St. Paul between southbound I-35E and John Ireland Blvd. from 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Sept. 29, as part of a MnDOT project to repair nine bridges on I-94 and I-35E. Detours include routing northbound I-35E traffic to westbound Hwy 36 and southbound Hwy 280, and sending southbound I-35E drivers via eastbound I-94 to southbound Hwy 52 to I-494; additional weekend closures and John Ireland Blvd. bridge work in October mean drivers should expect delays.

Traffic Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Inver Grove Heights man sentenced to 20 years

Sep 26 Breaking TC 1

An Inver Grove Heights man was sentenced to 20 years in prison for coercing and manipulating girls to send nude photos, the Pioneer Press reported Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025. The case stems from conduct involving minors and concludes with a lengthy prison term for the Twin Cities resident.

Legal Public Safety

Trump imposes tariffs on cabinets, furniture, trucks

Sep 25 Breaking TC 1

President Donald Trump announced new import taxes on kitchen cabinets, furniture, and heavy trucks that will take effect starting next week. The nationwide tariffs, announced Sept. 25, 2025, are poised to impact Twin Cities consumers, retailers, home contractors, and trucking-related businesses as prices and sourcing adjust.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

Judge rules DJ stalker not guilty by mental illness

Sep 25 Breaking TC 1

A Twin Cities judge found that a person who stalked a DJ at The Current violated a restraining order but entered a verdict of not guilty due to mental illness on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025. The ruling acknowledges the conduct occurred while concluding the defendant is not criminally responsible because of mental illness.

Legal Public Safety

1.2M Oster French-door ovens recalled nationwide

Sep 25 Breaking TC 1

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a recall of more than 1.2 million Oster French‑door countertop ovens on Sept. 25, 2025, due to a safety hazard. The recall applies nationwide, including the Twin Cities; consumers are advised to stop using the product and follow recall instructions for a remedy from Oster/Sunbeam.

Public Safety Health

I-94 eastbound closed at Hwy 610 in Maple Grove

Sep 25 Dev TC 1

MnDOT says eastbound I-94 at Minnesota 610 in Maple Grove is closed Thursday afternoon due to a traffic incident, with reopening estimated around 6 p.m. A separate crash on westbound MN 610 between Fernbrook Lane N and Maple Grove Parkway is contributing to major backups amid ongoing construction lane closures.

Transit & Infrastructure Public Safety

89-year-old dies in Oak Park Heights crash

Sep 25 Breaking TC 1

An 89-year-old man from New Richmond, Wisconsin died in a vehicle crash in Oak Park Heights in Washington County, according to authorities. The fatal collision occurred in the east Twin Cities metro and remains under investigation; officials did not immediately release additional details on circumstances or other injuries.

Public Safety

Minneapolis Fed orders full-time office return

Sep 25 Breaking TC 1

The Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, one of downtown Minneapolis’ largest employers, has mandated a full-time return to the office, reversing hybrid or remote arrangements. The policy goes further than other large organizations that have recently tightened remote-work rules, signaling a notable shift for the downtown workforce.

Business & Economy Local Government Technology

Texas brothers hit with federal kidnapping charges in Grant crypto case; feds value theft at $8M

Sep 25 Breaking TC 3

The U.S. Attorney’s Office has filed federal kidnapping charges against Texas brothers Raymond Christian Garcia, 23, and Isiah Angelo Garcia, 24, in a Sept. 19 Grant, Minnesota, home invasion, valuing the stolen cryptocurrency at $8 million—far above the $72,000 cited in county filings. Authorities say the men bound a family with zip ties, used an AR-15-style rifle and a shotgun, and forced transfers at the Grant home and a Jacobson cabin before their arrests in Texas; they face the federal counts in addition to state charges of kidnapping, first-degree burglary, and first-degree aggravated robbery, with a first federal court appearance set for Thursday.

Legal Public Safety

Amazon settles FTC Prime case for $2.5B, averting jury trial

Sep 25 Dev TC 2

Amazon agreed to pay $2.5 billion to settle the Federal Trade Commission’s lawsuit alleging it used deceptive tactics to enroll customers in Prime and made cancellation onerous. The deal resolves a case that a judge had ruled would go before a jury, averting a federal jury trial.

Legal Business & Economy Technology

Fateh campaign reports vandalism, hate message

Sep 25 Breaking TC 1

Omar Fateh’s Minneapolis mayoral campaign says it found a message outside its office reading 'Somali Muslim — this is no joke' and filed a police report on Wednesday. The campaign called it the latest hate incident and said it will not be deterred, as Fateh challenges incumbent Mayor Jacob Frey in November.

Elections Public Safety

Xcel settles Marshall Fire suits for $640M

Sep 25 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis-based Xcel Energy agreed to a $640 million settlement on Sept. 25, 2025, resolving litigation alleging the utility sparked the Denver-area’s devastating Marshall Fire, reached on the eve of a jury trial. The settlement is a significant financial development for the primary electric utility serving the Twin Cities and could influence regulatory and rate considerations.

Utilities Legal

St. Paul rejects 28.5% Ashland rent hikes

Sep 25 Breaking TC 1

The St. Paul City Council voted 4-3 on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, to reject proposed 28.5% rent increases for properties on Ashland Avenue under the city’s rent stabilization framework. The decision directly affects tenants at the Ashland Avenue addresses and reflects the council’s oversight of large rent-hike requests.

Housing Local Government

Minnesota Supreme Court expands eviction protections

Sep 25 Breaking TC 1

On Sept. 24, 2025, the Minnesota Supreme Court issued a ruling that expands eviction protections for renters who use housing vouchers or other rental subsidies, setting binding precedent for courts statewide, including Hennepin and Ramsey counties. The decision clarifies how judges must treat third‑party rental assistance in nonpayment and related eviction proceedings, directly affecting landlords and tenants across the Twin Cities.

Housing Legal

Legislative auditor urges stronger anti-fraud controls

Sep 25 TC 1

Minnesota Legislative Auditor Judy Randall said her office is coordinating with the BCA’s new financial crimes unit and stressed the state must tighten and enforce existing internal controls to stop fraud, in an interview following new federal charges in state-funded programs. DHS said it designated the autism program “high risk” in May, enhanced provider screening, imposed stricter billing, and is moving faster to halt payments when fraud is suspected, with expanded data analytics outlined to lawmakers this month.

Local Government Legal Health

Edina’s Mark Erjavec indicted in $975K COVID-relief fraud

Sep 25 Breaking TC 2

Mark Erjavec, 49, of Edina, has been indicted in Minnesota on five counts of wire fraud for an alleged $975,000 scheme targeting COVID-19 relief programs, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Prosecutors say he reactivated dormant business entities dissolved between 2008 and 2013, opened new bank accounts, and submitted false EIDL and PPP applications with nonexistent employees and inflated revenues; he has appeared in federal court.

Business & Economy Legal

First charge in MN autism program fraud

Sep 24 Breaking TC 2

Federal prosecutors charged Asha Farhan Hassan, 28, with wire fraud, alleging she used Smart Therapy LLC/Smart Therapy Centers to obtain more than $14 million from Minnesota’s EIDBI program via DHS and UCare by paying parents $300–$1,500 a month and hiring unqualified teen relatives, while also claiming to feed up to 1,200 children a day under Feeding Our Future and seeking nearly $500,000 in reimbursements. Authorities say funds were moved overseas, including for property in Kenya; the FBI previously raided autism centers in Minneapolis and St. Cloud, and Hassan is the 76th defendant tied to the broader Feeding Our Future case but the first charged in the autism-center probe. Her attorney says she plans to plead guilty within weeks and is cooperating to some degree, as investigators estimate related fraud totals approaching $300 million; the defense called it a “perfect storm” amid recent state funding changes.

Legal Health

MyPillow to sell Chaska HQ, shift offices

Sep 24 Breaking TC 1

MyPillow has put its Chaska headquarters up for sale and will relocate office functions to Shakopee, according to a Star Tribune report. The move consolidates operations within the Twin Cities metro across Carver and Scott counties; details on timing and employment impacts were not immediately disclosed.

Business & Economy Housing

Lake Street restaurant owner gets 8-month sentence

Sep 24 Breaking TC 1

The owner of a Lake Street restaurant in Minneapolis was sentenced to eight months in an immigration-related case, following an earlier federal raid at the business. The federal sentencing closes a local investigation tied to immigration violations at the establishment, according to the Star Tribune.

Legal Public Safety

Charges filed in U of M Rapson Hall gunfire

Sep 24 Breaking TC 1

Hennepin County prosecutors charged 18-year-old Anas Mursal Mohamed after two shots were fired outside the University of Minnesota’s Rapson Hall around 8:45 p.m. on Sept. 18, causing panic and the evacuation of hundreds with no injuries. A criminal complaint cites surveillance video showing Mohamed firing twice, 10mm casings at the scene, recovery of a discarded hoodie and a 10mm Glock near the area, and his arrest the next day during a traffic stop where a loaded 9mm was found under the driver’s seat.

Public Safety Legal

Minnesota Supreme Court censures, suspends Anoka County judge for misconduct

Sep 24 Breaking TC 2

The Minnesota Supreme Court on Sept. 23, 2025, publicly censured and suspended an Anoka County District Court judge for nine months following a misconduct case brought by the Board on Judicial Standards. The high court’s order cites key findings from the board’s investigation, according to the Star Tribune.

Local Government Legal

Oppidan sells Pillars of Prospect Park for $140M

Sep 24 Breaking TC 1

Oppidan sold the Pillars of Prospect Park senior living community near the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis to Ventas for $140 million, the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal reports on Sept. 23, 2025. The deal is described as one of the Twin Cities’ largest real estate transactions of the year, with the property’s unique features and partnerships cited as drivers of the price.

Business & Economy Housing

Construction worker killed on I-35W in Burnsville

Sep 24 Breaking TC 1

A construction worker was fatally struck by a vehicle on Interstate 35W in Burnsville on Sept. 24, 2025, authorities said. The incident occurred within a work zone on the core Twin Cities freeway and remains under investigation.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Mahtomedi homecoming canceled amid manhunt for Grant kidnapping suspects

Sep 24 Breaking TC 3

Mahtomedi High School canceled its homecoming football game on the advice of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office due to ongoing law enforcement activity near campus, with electronic ticket purchases to be refunded. The cancellation coincided with a shelter-in-place as authorities searched for Texas brothers Raymond and Isiah Garcia, who are charged in Washington County in a Grant home-invasion kidnapping and robbery involving armed suspects, a hostage, and the forced transfer of more than $72,000 in cryptocurrency.

Public Safety Education

I-94 St. Croix bridge work starts Monday

Sep 24 Breaking TC 1

Bridge work on Interstate 94 over the St. Croix River at the Minnesota–Wisconsin border will begin Monday, affecting traffic between Washington County and Hudson. The project is slated to create travel impacts at the busy Twin Cities–to–Wisconsin crossing; drivers should plan for delays and possible changes to traffic patterns.

Transit & Infrastructure

Robbinsdale schools weigh mergers, closures amid $21M deficit

Sep 24 Dev TC 1

Robbinsdale Area Schools said at a Tuesday night board meeting it faces a $21 million budget shortfall and is considering merging Cooper and Armstrong high schools, closing several middle and elementary schools, and seeking a voter-approved bond to build a new high school. The district, now in statutory operating debt, must submit a board‑approved plan to the Minnesota Department of Education by Jan. 31, 2026. Leaders cited declining enrollment, rising costs, and a $20 million compensatory funding double‑count as drivers of the crisis, with closures projected to save $500,000 to over $1 million per building.

Education Local Government

Minneapolis to nominate three Black heritage sites

Sep 24 Breaking TC 1

The City of Minneapolis says it will nominate the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder building, the Phyllis Wheatley Community Center in North Minneapolis, and the former home of Harry Davis Sr. in South Minneapolis to the National Register of Historic Places. The effort, part of a city initiative begun in 2019 to document Black history, could open access to preservation grants and tax credits, with decisions expected in late 2026 or early 2027.

Local Government Housing

Arrest made in Aug. 26 Minneapolis mass shooting

Sep 24 Dev TC 1

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said Tuesday that officers arrested 24-year-old Trayveion Alvin Green on a murder warrant in the Aug. 26 mass shooting near Cristo Rey Jesuit High School and a nearby encampment. Green is the third suspect charged, following Ryan Timothy Quinn and Tiffany Lynn Marie Martindale; the shooting involved a .223 rifle and left seven people shot, including one man who died.

Public Safety Legal

Washington County sets 2026 levy cap at 6.95%

Sep 23 Breaking TC 1

The Washington County Board on Sept. 23, 2025, approved a preliminary 2026 property tax levy allowing an increase of up to 6.95%. The preliminary action sets the maximum levy that can be reduced before final adoption later this year, affecting homeowners and businesses countywide in the east Twin Cities metro.

Local Government Business & Economy

Nicole Mitchell sentencing set Tuesday; defense seeks misdemeanor downgrade and Ramsey County confinement

Sep 23 Dev TC 2

Sentencing is set for 9 a.m. Tuesday in Becker County (Detroit Lakes) for Nicole Mitchell, a Minnesota state senator representing Woodbury, following her July 2025 jury convictions for first-degree burglary and possession of burglary tools. Her defense is asking the court to reduce the felony convictions to misdemeanors, to allow any sentence—minimum six months in jail or workhouse—to be served in Ramsey County rather than Becker County, and is disputing $23,585 in restitution sought by prosecutors.

Elections Local Government Legal

Dense fog advisory for Twin Cities

Sep 23 Breaking TC 1

A dense fog advisory remains in effect until 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23, for eastern Minnesota, including the Twin Cities, with conditions expected to brighten by late morning. Highs around 70°F are forecast in the metro with light northeast winds; more morning fog is possible Wednesday, followed by a warm-up into the upper 70s and low 80s later this week.

Weather

Tad Jude announces secretary of state bid

Sep 23 Breaking TC 1

Tad Jude announced he is running for Minnesota secretary of state, emphasizing a platform of transparency in election administration. The statewide office oversees elections that include Minneapolis–Saint Paul, making the campaign relevant to metro voters as the 2026 race takes shape.

Elections Local Government

St. Paul driver gets workhouse in fatal crash

Sep 22 Breaking TC 1

A driver who was traveling 77 mph on a St. Paul city street when he fatally struck a pedestrian was sentenced to serve time in a workhouse on Sept. 22, 2025. The case concludes with a non‑prison sentence following the deadly collision on a St. Paul roadway.

Legal Public Safety

Arden Hills considers allowing backyard ducks

Sep 22 Breaking TC 1

The Arden Hills City Council will take public comment Monday on proposed changes to its backyard poultry ordinance that would allow residents to keep ducks and loosen chicken rules. The proposal would raise the chicken limit from three to seven, permit larger coops, allow fenced-yard roaming, and enable coops in detached garages; a staff memo notes six metro cities already allow ducks and the Planning Commission recommended approval 7–0.

Local Government Environment

Blue Line shuts 10 p.m. Sept. 22–Oct. 4; buses replace trains

Sep 22 Breaking TC 3

Metro Transit will shut the Blue Line light rail for 12 days starting at 10 p.m. Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, through Saturday, Oct. 4, with replacement buses running and trips expected to take longer. The closure launches phase one of the agency’s multi-year Renew the Blue project, replacing track along the entire corridor and several switches near Cedar-Riverside; trains resume at 7 a.m. Oct. 4, running every 12 minutes. A second phase is planned for June 2026 with a 45-day full-line closure; the Blue Line carries more than 17,000 rides per day.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

St. Paul restores library, rec center internet

Sep 22 Dev TC 2

St. Paul has restored public internet access at its libraries and recreation centers after a cyberattack disrupted services, officials announced Sept. 18, 2025. Mayor Melvin Carter said the city did not pay a ransom in the summer ransomware attack and that response and cybersecurity upgrades have cost well over $1 million, with teams working around the clock to back up data and restore services.

Local Government Technology

St. Paul cyberattack cost tops $1M; no ransom

Sep 22 Dev TC 1

St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter said in a Sept. 22 FOX 9 interview that the city did not pay a ransom after this summer’s ransomware attack and that response and cybersecurity upgrades have cost 'well over $1 million.' He added teams worked around the clock to back up data and restore services as systems came back online.

Technology Local Government

St. Paul man sentenced in White Bear shootout

Sep 22 Dev TC 1

A St. Paul man was sentenced on Sept. 22, 2025, for his role in a 2023 shootout at Doc's Landing bar in White Bear Lake. The case stems from gunfire inside or near the bar that year and concludes with a district court sentence handed down in the Twin Cities metro.

Legal Public Safety

Court: Bus stop arms must be fully extended

Sep 22 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota Court of Appeals overturned a driver’s school‑bus stop‑arm conviction and ruled that motorists are required to stop only when the bus’s stop sign/arm is fully extended. Issued this week, the decision clarifies statewide enforcement and applies to drivers, police, and school transportation across the Twin Cities metro.

Legal Public Safety

Man killed in shooting near Peavey Field Park

Sep 21 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis police say a man was shot just before midnight Saturday near Chicago Avenue and E. Franklin Avenue by Peavey Field Park in the Ventura Village neighborhood and later died at the hospital. MPD says an altercation preceded the gunfire, a possible suspect ran from the scene, and no arrests have been made; Chief Brian O’Hara is asking anyone with information to contact police or CrimeStoppers.

Public Safety

Maplewood rollover kills baby; driver arrested

Sep 21 Breaking TC 1

A black Chevy Tahoe rolled off the eastbound Hwy 36 to southbound Hwy 61 exit ramp in Maplewood around 6:25 p.m., landing upside down in 1–2 feet of water, the Minnesota State Patrol said. One-year-old Revon Melvin Anthony Todd was extricated and later died; two boys, ages 5 and 6, and a 32-year-old man were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. Driver Rachale Francine Peloquin, 28, of St. Paul, was arrested after medical clearance, suspected of alcohol use, and booked into Ramsey County Jail on criminal vehicular homicide.

Public Safety Legal

Minneapolis opens shooting assistance center

Sep 20 Dev TC 1

The City of Minneapolis has opened an assistance center to support people affected by recent shootings in the city, providing a centralized place to access victim services and other resources. The move follows multiple high-profile shootings and is intended to streamline help for victims, families, and impacted community members.

Public Safety Local Government

Man dies after Lake Street transit station shooting; victim identified as Adam Peterson

Sep 20 Breaking TC 4

Five people were shot near the Midtown Greenway by Lake Street and Stevens Avenue, steps from the transit station, shortly after 11 a.m. on Sept. 15; one victim, 46-year-old Adam John Peterson, died at the hospital Saturday. Investigators say shots were fired near the Greenway and on a walkway by the I-35W exit ramp, with victims found at multiple nearby locations; no arrests have been made as the investigation continues. Police Chief Brian O’Hara has linked the violence to nearby encampment activity and signaled increased enforcement.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

Minnesota OKs campaign funds for candidate security

Sep 20 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board has ruled that campaign funds may be used for candidate security, including threat assessments and on‑site event protection, following a request from the Minnesota DFL Party. The decision applies statewide to candidates of any party, enabling security expenses during the 2025–2026 campaign cycle across the Twin Cities and Minnesota.

Elections Local Government

St. Paul's West 7th Street reopens after sinkhole

Sep 19 Breaking TC 1

The City of St. Paul reopened West 7th Street on Friday, Sept. 19, 2025, after a sinkhole forced a four-month closure. The restoration of the major corridor resumes normal traffic flow along a key route connecting downtown and surrounding neighborhoods.

Transit & Infrastructure Local Government

Hennepin County halts charges from minor stops

Sep 19 Breaking TC 2

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced her office will no longer charge cases arising from low-level traffic stops — such as equipment or registration violations — across Minneapolis and its suburbs. The policy, which effectively limits felony prosecutions stemming from these stops, drew swift criticism from multiple police officials, who warned it could hinder prosecutions and harm public safety.

Legal Public Safety Local Government

Metro Transit boosts service for Farm Aid 40

Sep 19 Breaking TC 1

Metro Transit says it will increase service to accommodate the all-day Farm Aid 40 concert at Huntington Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, adding capacity and extra trips to handle large crowds before and after the event. The agency is directing concertgoers to use transit for access to the stadium area given expected heavy traffic and limited parking.

Transit & Infrastructure

Trump seeks Supreme Court rollback of Venezuelan protections

Sep 19 Dev TC 1

The Trump administration on Sept. 19, 2025, asked the U.S. Supreme Court to remove legal protections from Venezuelan migrants, a nationwide change that would affect those living and working in the Twin Cities. The filing seeks high‑court intervention to alter current immigration protections for Venezuelan nationals.

Legal Government

BB guns found at St. Paul school

Sep 19 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul police say preteen boys brought BB guns to Creative Arts Secondary School in St. Paul on Friday, Sept. 19, 2025. Police responded and the BB guns were found on campus; the incident involves juveniles and is under investigation.

Public Safety Education

Hennepin County charges Mora man for email threats

Sep 19 Breaking TC 1

Hennepin County charged John Allen Sandeen Jr., 64, of Mora with four counts of terroristic threats for emails sent Sept. 13–16 that threatened a Maple Grove church music director and another person, referencing retaliation for the killing of Charlie Kirk. Maple Grove police took the report on Sept. 15; Sandeen is in Ramsey County custody on a related matter, and a Hennepin County arrest warrant is active. County Attorney Mary Moriarty called the threats “chilling” and vowed to pursue accountability.

Public Safety Legal

Columbia Heights man Abdullahe Nur Jesow pleads guilty in Feeding Our Future scheme tied to S&S Catering

Sep 19 Dev TC 2

Abdullahe Nur Jesow, 65, of Columbia Heights, pleaded guilty in federal court in Minnesota to money laundering in the Feeding Our Future fraud case, becoming the 56th defendant to do so. Prosecutors say he was linked to the S&S Catering group that stole and laundered $17.4 million, operating the Academy For Youth Excellence site that claimed more than 1.7 million meals from Dec. 2020 to Sept. 2021, resulting in $4,286,088 in inflated reimbursements, of which he kept about 5% and returned most via cash or checks to launder proceeds. He had been set for trial Oct. 14; sentencing will be scheduled later.

Legal Public Safety

Second defendant gets 12½ years in South St. Paul killing

Sep 19 Breaking TC 2

On Sept. 18, 2025, a second defendant was sentenced to 12½ years in prison for his role in the fatal shooting of a South St. Paul father during a marijuana robbery. The accomplice received nearly the same prison term as the shooter, indicating little disparity between the codefendants.

Legal Public Safety

Minnesota free school meals hit 302M total

Sep 19 TC 1

Gov. Tim Walz said Minnesota’s Universal Free School Meals program served 151 million meals in its second year, bringing the total to more than 302 million since the program launched in 2023. The statewide program provides free breakfast and lunch to all K–12 students regardless of income, with the governor’s office estimating about $1,000 in annual savings per student; a State Fair House poll found most respondents opposed an income cap. Parents interviewed praised access while noting some portion-size concerns requiring paid seconds.

Education Local Government

Minneapolis hires firm for neighbor shooting audit

Sep 19 Dev TC 1

The City of Minneapolis says it has contracted an independent law firm to assist with an audit related to the shooting of Davis Moturi by his neighbor, John Sawchak, and anticipates releasing findings in February 2026. Moturi, who was shot in the neck while trimming a tree and says MPD took five days to arrest Sawchak, continues to seek accountability as Chief Brian O’Hara has previously said the department failed him.

Public Safety Local Government

Minnesota adds 5,900 jobs in August

Sep 19 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota’s August 2025 jobs report shows a net gain of 5,900 jobs while the statewide unemployment rate ticked up to 3.6%, according to data released Sept. 18. The update, from the state’s employment agency, reflects current labor-market conditions that directly affect Twin Cities workers and employers.

Business & Economy

Toyota, Hyundai recall 1.1M vehicles for defects

Sep 18 Breaking TC 1

On September 18, 2025, Toyota and Hyundai announced nationwide vehicle recalls totaling more than 1.1 million vehicles to address seat belt and panel display problems. The recalls affect owners in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro due to their national scope and will require affected vehicles to be serviced to remedy the defects.

Public Safety Business & Economy

FTC sues Ticketmaster over pricing practices

Sep 18 Breaking TC 1

The Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit on Sept. 18, 2025, against Ticketmaster/Live Nation, alleging practices that force fans to pay more for concerts and events. The case seeks to curb alleged anticompetitive or unfair methods that raise ticket costs nationwide, which could affect Twin Cities consumers who buy tickets for metro venues.

Legal Business & Economy

Duluth man charged in Mariucci upskirt case; 144 victims, CSAM alleged

Sep 18 Breaking TC 2

A Duluth man, Benjamin Thomas Goldsmith, 32, has been charged in Hennepin County via warrant with three counts of possessing pornographic work and three counts of interfering with privacy after prosecutors say he filmed under the skirts of high school graduates at Minneapolis’ Mariucci Arena on June 1–2, 2024. Authorities say there are 144 alleged victims; witnesses reported Goldsmith for avoiding metal detectors, leading to his arrest and the discovery of a concealed camera, and a vehicle search turned up a hard drive with 151 child sexual abuse material images and videos. Investigators also found programs from other graduations and are examining whether additional victims or locations are involved; the criminal complaint was filed Sept. 16, 2025.

Legal Education Public Safety

Bluestem to close Eden Prairie HQ; 103 layoffs

Sep 18 Breaking TC 1

Eden Prairie–based Bluestem Brands is closing its headquarters and laying off 103 employees, including its CEO, the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal reports on Sept. 18, 2025. The move follows prior layoffs and two bankruptcy filings; the company’s online shops reportedly have only a few items remaining.

Business & Economy Employment

Carver man indicted on 16 animal-crushing counts

Sep 18 Breaking TC 1

Federal prosecutors charged Bryan Wesley Edison, 32, of Carver, with 16 counts of animal crushing for allegedly creating nearly 350 pay-per-view YouTube videos showing animals being tortured and killed since 2022. The DOJ says YouTube has removed the accounts; Edison made his initial appearance Wednesday and remains jailed in Sherburne County. Prosecutors cited the 2019 federal PACT Act expansion in announcing the case.

Legal Public Safety

Mahtomedi crash driver sentenced for killing two classmates

Sep 18 Breaking TC 1

A driver who killed two Mahtomedi classmates in a crash was sentenced on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, in the Twin Cities metro. Families addressed the court during sentencing and expressed grace toward the driver, according to the report.

Legal Public Safety

Pentair acquires Hydra-Stop from Madison Industries

Sep 18 Breaking TC 1

Twin Cities–based Pentair announced on Sept. 18, 2025, that it acquired Illinois-based Hydra-Stop from Madison Industries. Pentair says the acquired business is expected to generate about $50 million in 2025 revenue with roughly a 30% return on sales, signaling strategic expansion of its water-related offerings.

Business & Economy Utilities

Man pleads guilty in Twin Cities mosque arsons

Sep 17 Dev TC 1

Jackie Rahm Little pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court on Sept. 17, 2025, to federal charges for setting fires at two Minneapolis mosques in April 2023, which prosecutors said were driven by anger toward Muslims. The incidents at Masjid Al Rahma (Mercy Islamic Center) and Masjid Omar Islamic Center forced evacuations but caused no reported injuries; sentencing will be scheduled.

Legal Public Safety

DPS, State Patrol join MPD patrols after shootings

Sep 17 Dev TC 2

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety will partner with the Minneapolis Police Department under a Joint Powers Agreement to boost patrols, with Minnesota State Patrol troopers assigned to the Lake Street corridor following two mass shootings on Monday. MPD has further increased its own presence, and the city has erected fencing and barriers along parts of Lake Street to control access, measures officials say aim to deter further violence and stabilize the area. DPS Commissioner Bob Jacobson announced the deployment, while MPD Chief Brian O’Hara said the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office and the BCA are assisting and the National Guard is not currently needed.

Public Safety Local Government

St. Paul budget leaves 16 police vacancies

Sep 17 Dev TC 1

The Pioneer Press reports that under Mayor Melvin Carter’s proposed city budget, 16 vacant St. Paul Police Department positions would remain unfilled as part of the spending plan outlined Wednesday in St. Paul. The move affects police staffing levels and is part of the administration’s budgeting decisions for the upcoming year.

Local Government Public Safety

East Ridge High placed on lockdown

Sep 17 Breaking TC 1

East Ridge High School in Woodbury was placed on lockdown Wednesday following a report of a weapon. Authorities responded to the campus as the situation was assessed; the school and district communicated the lockdown to families.

Public Safety Education

Amazon invests $1B to raise pay, cut health costs

Sep 17 Breaking TC 1

Amazon announced on Sept. 17, 2025, that it will spend $1 billion to increase pay and lower health care costs for U.S. employees, a change that applies to workers nationwide, including those in the Twin Cities metro. The company said the investment is aimed at boosting compensation and reducing out-of-pocket medical expenses.

Business & Economy Health

Illume Candles closing Maple Grove HQ, cutting 132 jobs

Sep 17 Breaking TC 1

Illume Candles will close its Maple Grove headquarters and manufacturing operations and lay off 132 workers, according to a Star Tribune report. The move affects employees at the Hennepin County facility and removes a local manufacturing and office footprint in the Twin Cities suburb.

Business & Economy

UMN ends ICE contract, closes range access

Sep 17 Breaking TC 1

The University of Minnesota has ended its contract allowing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to use the campus shooting range and will no longer permit outside law enforcement agencies to train there, the university said. The change affects metro-area agencies that previously used the facility and limits access to university purposes.

Education Public Safety

DFL Sen. Ann Rest to retire after 40 years

Sep 17 Breaking TC 1

DFL state Sen. Ann Rest, a longtime legislator representing a northwest Hennepin County district in the Twin Cities metro, announced her retirement after 40 years in office, according to the Star Tribune on Sept. 17, 2025. Her departure will open a metro Senate seat and marks the end of one of the longest tenures in the Minnesota Legislature.

Elections Local Government

Falcon Heights debates Les Bolstad redevelopment

Sep 17 Dev TC 1

Falcon Heights and University of Minnesota officials drew a large crowd Tuesday night to discuss the future of the 141-acre Les Bolstad Golf Course, which the university plans to close for financial reasons. The city presented mixed-use concepts including affordable housing, green space, and small-scale retail, citing a study that the site could support 1,500–2,000 homes; the Planning Commission is set to vote next Tuesday on a community feedback report to guide next steps with the university and developers.

Housing Local Government

Xp Lee wins Minnesota House District 34B special election

Sep 17 Dev TC 2

On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, voters in Minnesota House District 34B—which includes parts of Brooklyn Park, Coon Rapids, and Champlin in Anoka and Hennepin counties—held a special election to fill the seat vacated after Rep. Melissa Hortman’s killing in June, for which a suspect has been indicted. DFL nominee Xp Lee defeated Republican Ruth Bittner with 60.82% (4,331 votes) to 39.11% (2,785), according to the Minnesota Secretary of State’s unofficial results; the district had 26,596 registered voters at 7 a.m. on Election Day, and results will be certified later. Lee thanked supporters and pledged to honor Hortman’s legacy, as party leaders praised the win.

Local Government Elections

Gov. Tim Walz launches third-term campaign

Sep 16 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz announced Tuesday morning, Sept. 16, 2025, that he will seek a third term, releasing a campaign video stating he’s "always tried to do what's right for Minnesota." The bid sets up a 2026 race in which Republicans including Dr. Scott Jensen, Rep. Kristin Robbins, and Kendall Qualls are competing for their party’s nomination; no Minnesota governor has won three consecutive four-year terms since the state adopted four-year terms in 1958.

Elections Local Government

First metro recreational cannabis shops open

Sep 16 Breaking TC 1

Recreational cannabis sales began Tuesday at Green Goods locations statewide, including five shops in the Twin Cities, while RISE is opening five recreational dispensaries with 8 a.m. ribbon cuttings, three of them in the metro. Legacy Cannabis in Duluth is set to open at 4:20 p.m. Tuesday with flower grown by the White Earth Nation, after a tribal compact and new state licenses eased supply constraints that had delayed non-tribal openings.

Business & Economy Legal

GOP seeks Annunciation shooter toxicology

Sep 16 Dev TC 1

Minnesota Republican lawmakers led by Sen. Steve Drazkowski sent a letter to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension requesting the Annunciation Church shooter's complete autopsy and toxicology reports and asking for an expanded screen for antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, stimulants, cannabinoids, psychoactive substances, and gender‑transition medications. The request follows the Aug. 27 Minneapolis mass shooting during morning Mass that killed two children and injured 21 before the gunman died by suicide.

Public Safety Local Government

Urban farm group misses Roof Depot deadline

Sep 16 Dev TC 1

Urban farm activists seeking to buy Minneapolis’ Roof Depot industrial site in the East Phillips neighborhood missed a city-imposed deadline to complete the purchase. The lapse puts the future of the long-disputed site back in the City of Minneapolis’ hands as officials determine next steps for the property.

Local Government Housing Environment

Minneapolis man sues Met Council over LRT access

Sep 16 Breaking TC 1

A Minneapolis resident filed a discrimination lawsuit against the Metropolitan Council, alleging Metro Transit light-rail stations have accessibility barriers that impede access for people with disabilities. The case targets station conditions on the Twin Cities LRT system; details on the specific stations and court venue were not immediately available.

Legal Transit & Infrastructure

Appeals court lets dentist’s defamation suit proceed

Sep 15 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota Court of Appeals ruled that a Twin Cities dentist’s defamation lawsuit over a negative Google review may move forward, allowing the case to continue in district court. The decision clarifies that claims tied to allegedly false online statements can proceed past initial challenges in Minnesota.

Legal Technology

Shakopee crash kills 83; driver suspected drunk

Sep 15 Breaking TC 1

Shakopee police say an 83-year-old motorist died after a suspected drunk driver caused a collision at a city intersection in the Twin Cities metro. Police reported the fatality and indicated alcohol was a factor as they investigate; additional details on any arrest or charges were not immediately released.

Public Safety Legal

PUC holds hearing on Xcel rate hikes

Sep 15 Dev TC 1

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission is holding a public meeting from 6:30–8:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 15, at the Washington County Heritage Center Education Center in Stillwater on Xcel Energy’s proposed two-year electric rate increases. Xcel seeks 9.6% in 2025 ($353.3M; about $9.89/month for the average residential customer) and 3.6% in 2026 ($137.5M; about $3.90/month), totaling 13.2% ($490.7M). Public comments are open through Dec. 30, evidentiary hearings are Dec. 17–19, and the PUC’s order deadline is July 31, 2026.

Utilities Energy

Blaine child-solicitation sting nets 22 arrests

Sep 15 Breaking TC 1

The Blaine Police Department led a child-solicitation operation in Blaine, resulting in 22 arrests, according to police and local reporting. The enforcement action targeted adults attempting to solicit minors in the north metro suburb; authorities said the investigation continues and announced the results publicly.

Public Safety Legal

Falcon Heights nets $49K from State Fair parking

Sep 15 Breaking TC 1

The City of Falcon Heights reports earning a $49,000 profit from on-street parking fees charged during the Minnesota State Fair in areas near the fairgrounds. The fees were enforced on city streets in Falcon Heights during the event, generating revenue beyond program costs.

Local Government Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

Man killed, another hurt in Lake Street shooting

Sep 15 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis police say a shooting on the 1500 block of East Lake Street just before 1:50 a.m. Sunday left one man dead and another with non-life-threatening injuries. Officers responded to a ShotSpotter activation; the fatally wounded man died at the hospital, and a second victim arrived separately. No arrests have been announced, and Chief Brian O’Hara urged anyone with information to come forward.

Public Safety Legal