Minnesota Today

Capitol security; Flooding in west central Minnesota Jul 10, 2025

Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher is renewing his call for increased Capitol security following attacks on state lawmakers at their homes.

Officials in west central Minnesota say people wanting to help with flood clean-up should contact a service organization such as the Red Cross, rather than just show up.

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

Walz defends contracting for legal counsel. Former Minnesotans admit to voter fraud Jul 10, 2025

State lawmakers convened at the Capitol Tuesday for the first legislative hearing since two colleagues were shot last month.

An effort to start the process of modifying a Minneapolis police reform agreement is now on pause. The Minneapolis City Council has voted to pause the effort to start modifying the existing MPD agreement with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights. Supporters of the proposal want the city to add provisions from a federal consent decree that was dismissed by a judge earlier this year to its existing pact with the human rights department.

The organization Abbey‘s Hope reached a milestone Tuesday in its effort to match Minnesota kids with life jackets. Scott and Katey Taylor formed the group after their 6-year-old daughter Abbey died following an incident in a wading pool where she got stuck in a filter pump.

The historic Stone Arch Bridge in downtown Minneapolis is reopening in full next month.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has temporarily turned off the lights on the Mississippi River bridges at Winona amid an ongoing mayfly hatch. The twin bridges carry State Highway 43 across the river to Wisconsin. The lights attract the insects in swarms and can create dangerous driving conditions.

'Massive' drug bust; Father charged in son's death Jul 09, 2025

The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office has charged two people in what officials are calling a "massive" methamphetamine seizure.

A Columbia Heights man is now charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of his 16-year-old son. Jordan Collins Sr. was charged in Anoka County and made his first court appearance this morning.

State lawmakers convene for first legislative hearing since colleagues were shot last month Jul 09, 2025

State lawmakers convened at the Capitol Tuesday for the first legislative hearing since two colleagues were shot last month.

An effort to start the process of modifying a Minneapolis police reform agreement is now on pause. The Minneapolis City Council has voted to pause the effort to start modifying the existing MPD agreement with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights. Supporters of the proposal want the city to add provisions from a federal consent decree that was dismissed by a judge earlier this year to its existing pact with the human rights department.

The organization Abbey‘s Hope reached a milestone Tuesday in its effort to match Minnesota kids with life jackets. Scott and Katey Taylor formed the group after their 6-year-old daughter Abbey died following an incident in a wading pool where she got stuck in a filter pump.

The historic Stone Arch Bridge in downtown Minneapolis is reopening in full next month.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has temporarily turned off the lights on the Mississippi River bridges at Winona amid an ongoing mayfly hatch. The twin bridges carry State Highway 43 across the river to Wisconsin. The lights attract the insects in swarms and can create dangerous driving conditions.

Minnesota school districts face financial hit; Duluth area nurses go on strike Jul 08, 2025

Minnesota school districts are facing a new financial hit after learning the Trump administration will withhold tens of millions in education funding.

About three hundred nurses and other medical staff went on strike today in the Duluth area. They work at six Essentia Health facilities and are negotiating their first union contracts.

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

Arrest made in connection to the death of 16-year-old Manny Collins Jul 08, 2025

The cost of health insurance is rising for Minnesota school districts Jul 07, 2025

The cost of health insurance is soaring for Minnesota school districts and teachers.

And the massive budget bill passed by Congress and signed by President Trump over the holiday weekend makes some tax cuts permanent, and cuts spending on Medicaid.

June storm in Beltrami County confirmed as a ‘microburst’ Jul 07, 2025

The National Weather Service has confirmed the severe storm that struck Beltrami County in late June was a so-called microburst. Surveys show the “microburst” created a ten-mile swath of destructive straight-line winds — reaching as high as a hundred-and-twenty-miles-per-hour.

St. Louis County on Monday opens a temporary collection site for debris from properties affected by wildfires earlier this year. That collection site at the old county garage along Highway 44 in Brimson. It’ll stay open Mondays through Saturdays through the end of July. The Camp House, Jenkins Creek and Munger Shaw fires burned thousands of acres in May and destroyed dozens of buildings, including homes and cabins.

A 13-year-old boy died after being struck by a firework on Friday in Mahnomen County.

Minnesota is warning people to be on the lookout for door-to-door pest-control scams.

Drivers traveling Interstate 35 between Duluth and the Twin Cities will encounter lane closures in Carlton County, starting Monday. MnDOT crews will be wrapping up work that started last year on the Atkinson Bridge. That’ll mean single-lane traffic for both southbound and northbound traffic on weekdays through July 18.

Prosecutors move forward with case against Boelter in Rep. Hortman's killing Jul 04, 2025

Prosecutors are moving forward with their case against the man accused of killing former DFL House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark. Vance Boelter, 57, is charged in a six-count criminal complaint with the murder of the Hortmans early on June 14 and with shooting and wounding DFL State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife Yvette earlier the same night. Boelter is also charged with stalking the lawmakers.

A Minnesota Department of Education employee no longer works there after a conservative news site reported on a prior conviction of criminal sexual conduct.

And boaters can expect to see extra law enforcement officers on Minnesota waterways Friday and through the holiday weekend.
Go deeper with the latest edition of the Minnesota Today newsletter.

Prosecution moves forward after alleged Hortman assassin waives hearings

Minnesota education agency employee out after sex-crime conviction surfaces

Law enforcement warns boaters to drive sober this holiday weekend

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U.S. House passes budget bill Jul 03, 2025

Minnesota's U.S. House members split along party lines on a tax and budget bill that President Donald Trump plans to quickly sign.

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

Minneapolis police hope to avoid a repeat of last three years’ Fourth of July mayhem Jul 03, 2025

Communities across Minnesota will be celebrating the Fourth of July with parades, picnics and fireworks displays. While most fireworks are Friday night, a few cities will get an early jump on the holiday with shows Thursday. That includes the Stars and Stripes Days fireworks in Pequot Lakes beginning at dusk. On the Iron Range, the Aurora Patriotic Days fireworks begin at 10 p.m. and the Thunder Over Eveleth fireworks are at 10:15 p.m. In the Twin Cities, Bloomington’s annual Summer Fete is Friday evening.

Minneapolis police are hoping to avoid a repeat of the mayhem that plagued the last three July Fourth holidays. While gun-related crime in Minneapolis has spiked around July 4 for the past five years, crime statistics overall are trending downward.

Law enforcement is warning boaters it will be aggressively enforcing laws prohibiting impaired boating over the Independence Day weekend. The Department of Natural Resources is calling the campaign Operation Dry Water. It runs tomorrow through Monday.

The White Earth Nation opened its second, off-reservation recreational cannabis dispensary Thursday, this time in St. Cloud.

Watch for severe weather over the Fourth of July weekend Jul 02, 2025

If you have plans to watch fireworks or take part in other outdoor activities on the Fourth of July, keep an eye on the forecast over the next couple of days. MPR meteorologist Sven Sundgaard says a cool front may touch off thunderstorms.

Also, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison announced Wednesday he is joining a multistate coalition suing the Trump Administration, accusing it of sharing personal health data with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

This is the afternoon MPR News update, hosted by Emily Reese. Theme music is by Gary Meister.

Missing teen's body found in Elk River landfill Jul 02, 2025

Law enforcement officials are continuing their investigation into the death of 16-year-old Jordan Collins who was known as “Manny.” Anoka County Sheriff Brad Wise says searchers found the boy’s body in a landfill in Elk River over the weekend. Wise says law enforcement still wants any help it can get from the public to solve the crime.

A 14-year-old boy was killed and a 13-year-old boy suffered life-threatening injuries when a pickup truck struck the motorized scooter they were riding Tuesday in St. Paul. Police say that older teen was driving the scooter and ran a stop sign on the city's west side just before 9 a.m. The driver of the pickup is cooperating with investigators.

A judge has sent a St. Paul man to federal prison for 10 years for hiding fentanyl pills inside stuffed animals and mailing them to the Twin Cities.

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board has closed the beach at Lake Hiawatha temporarily because of high E. coli bacteria levels. The agency says it hasn’t received any reports of illness, but closed the beach as a precaution after routine water quality testing. All of the city’s other beaches remain open.

The Lynx lost to Indiana last night in the WNBA's Commissioner’s Cup game 74-59. The Lynx surrendered a 13-point lead and made only 35 percent of their shots.

Senate passes tax and budget package; Authorities look for information about "Manny" Collins Jul 01, 2025

The U.S. Senate passed a major tax and budget package today after after days of floor debate over the bill's contents. Vice President JD Vance cast the tiebreaking vote.

Law enforcement is asking the public for any information about Jordan Collins Jr. -- known as "Manny." Searchers found the teen's body in a landfill in Elk River over the weekend.

Those stories and more in today’s evening update from MPR News.

New state laws and a departure from 'The X' Jul 01, 2025

Motorcyclists can now split lanes; New state law for children on social media Jun 30, 2025

Starting tomorrow motorcyclists in Minnesota will be allowed to maneuver between lanes of traffic in certain conditions -- but only when traffic is stopped or moving slower than 25 miles per hour.

And a new state law meant to protect minor children from appearing on the internet goes into effect tomorrow.

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

Much of Minnesota impacted by weekend storms Jun 30, 2025

It was a weekend of severe weather for much of Minnesota. The National Weather Service says four tornadoes swept through Carver County alone. The the storms knocked down trees and power lines, but no storm-related injuries have been reported.

Storms spawned a large twister on the Minnesota-South Dakota border. Heavy rains from the storms caused localized flooding as well.

It was also a weekend of mourning in the Twin Cities with funeral services for Melissa and Mark Hortman. After a viewing at the Minnesota Capitol on Saturday, friends, family members and dignitaries gathered Saturday for a funeral at the Basilica of St. Mary. The former DFL House Speaker and her husband were remembered for their service to the state, their sense of humor and their love of community. Gov. Tim Walz gave one of the remembrances of the Hortmans, calling Melissa Hortman the most consequential speaker of the House in Minnesota history.

A man is in custody following a standoff with police in Rochester. Police say the incident started as a domestic disturbance late Saturday. The man allegedly had a knife and fled the scene before police arrived. Early Sunday, during a traffic stop, police say the suspect emerged from a vehicle with a rifle and a police officer fired a gun. The man was not injured, but fled into a residence and — he finally surrendered more than four hours later.

Stillwater-native Denis McDonough, a former White House insider, will teach at St. John’s University and the College of St. Benedict next school year.

Minnesotans can pay respects Friday to former House Speaker Melissa Hortman, husband Mark Jun 27, 2025

Minnesotans get an opportunity to pay their final respects to former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman Friday. The Hortmans, along with their golden retriever Gilbert, will lie in state at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul Friday from noon to 5 p.m.

State investigators say one of the Brooklyn Park police officers sent to check on Melissa Hortman the night of her slaying fired shots at the man suspected in the killings.

A Michigan news outlet is reporting the deaths of two people at Isle Royale National Park earlier this month are being investigated as a murder-suicide.

A woman who was shot while driving on Interstate 394 in Minneapolis last weekend has died. The victim and another woman told police that someone shot into their car on the interstate on Sunday night. She drove to Hennepin County Medical Center with the wound, but died this week. No arrests have been made.

For a second day in a row Thursday, there were reports of tornadoes as severe storms moved across southern Minnesota. The National Weather Service says spotters reported a tornado just east of Albert Lea — near Myre Big Island State Park. Emergency management also reported downed trees and power lines south of Albert Lea.

The DNR says Lake Bemidji State Park reopens to the public Friday afternoon — nearly a week after a line of severe storms caused major damage in the park and the surrounding region. While the state park will be open for both day-use and camping, officials say most trails are still closed due to downed trees. The fishing pier and boat launch are also still closed.

Wife of Vance Boelter releases statement; More rain expected after flash flooding Jun 26, 2025

The wife of Vance Boelter — the man charged in the killing of State Rep. Melissa Hortman — has released her first public statement since the shootings.

More rain is expected across central and southern Minnesota today, following storms that caused flash flooding yesterday.

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

U.S. House passes bipartisan resolution honoring Melissa and Mark Hortman Jun 26, 2025

The U.S. Justice Department is suing Minnesota over a state law that gives undocumented college students access to in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities.

A bipartisan resolution honoring Melissa and Mark Hortman was passed by the U.S. House Wednesday. It was introduced by Minnesota’s congressional delegation, alongside leaders from both parties.

Community leaders in Minneapolis are speaking out against violence in the wake of the fatal shooting of an 11-year-old boy Monday in a north side park.

Inmates at a Minnesota prison say they are not receiving basic hygiene products.

Shooting suspect briefly worked at U of M medical school before targeted attack Jun 25, 2025

Hortmans to lie in state; Sentencing in fatal hit-and-run Jun 24, 2025

The late Minnesota House DFL Leader Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark will lie in state at the Capitol on Friday.

And a Hennepin County judge today sentenced the woman who pleaded guilty to unintentional murder and assault for driving her automobile into a group last fall.

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

Tentative truce between Israel and Iran falters. Looking back at Mankato flooding 1 year ago Jun 24, 2025

A tentative truce between Israel and Iran is faltering. Israel is vowing to retaliate after saying Iran launched missiles into its airspace more than two hours after a ceasefire was supposed to take effect. And as that conflict, and the U.S. part in it, soaks up interest around the globe, Iranians in Minnesota are voicing their concerns.

A year ago this week, many of us will remember the images of a house plunging into the raging Blue Earth River as it carved a path around the Rapidan Dam in southern Minnesota. Aging infrastructure upgrades — including flood and stormwater projects — are needed across the U.S. as severe weather events become more frequent.

Since the 1990s, conservationists say there’s been a sharp drop in the number of monarch butterflies around the world. One Minnesota nonprofit is trying to reverse that trend. The Monarch Joint Venture is hosting a North American summit this week to discuss ways to protect the monarch butterfly and its migration. The event begins Tuesday at the McNamara Alumni Center on the University of Minnesota’s Minneapolis campus.

Severe storm damage in Bemidji; Feeding Our Future update Jun 23, 2025

Beltrami County and the city of Bemidji have declared a state of emergency due to severe storm damage over the weekend. The storms early Saturday had winds of more than 100 miles per hour.

And another defendant in the Feeding Our Future case admitted that he tried to bribe one of the jurors at his trial last year.

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

Bemidji continues cleanup after stormy weekend with 100 mph winds Jun 23, 2025

Gov. Walz says lawmakers should look at banning firearms from the State Capitol Jun 20, 2025

Gov. Tim Walz says the Minnesota Legislature should consider prohibiting people from carrying firearms in the state Capitol. Current law says Minnesotans with a permit to carry are able to bring a gun inside the statehouse. Walz comments come after authorities charged a registered lobbyist who allegedly sent a text message threatening violence at the Minnesota Capitol.

Also, heat advisories and warnings are in place for parts of southern and western Minnesota as a sweltering heat wave is expected across the state. This is the afternoon MPR News update hosted by Emily Reese. Theme music by Gary Meister.

New law, fewer thefts? Depends who you ask Jun 20, 2025

Very high temperatures on the way for Minnesota this weekend Jun 19, 2025

Extreme heat and humidity will roll into Minnesota this weekend. The sauna-like weather will be the first major heat wave of the summer. Temperatures will start to rise on Friday. The tropical air mass will push heat indexes to around 90 to 105 degrees.

Also, more than 23,000 runners are registered for events connected to Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, including a half and full marathon on Saturday. That number tops last year's record-breaking participation.

This is the afternoon MPR News update, hosted by Emily Reese. Theme music by Gary Meister.

Tuition increasing at the University of Minnesota. Police investigate a break-in at the home of late Rep. Melissa Hortman and husband Jun 19, 2025

Tuition is going up at the University of Minnesota this fall. The Board of Regents yesterday approved a 6-and-a-half percent increase — the largest in a decade and a half. In-state tuition for undergrads on the Twin Cities campus will be just over 16-thousand dollars in the next academic year. That does not include additional fees — which are also going up.

Brooklyn Park police are investigating a break-in at the home of DFL leader Melissa Hortman, and her husband Mark. The incident comes days after the Hortmans were shot and killed in their home in what authorities are calling a politically motivated attack. Police say they discovered pried-off plywood that was covering the home’s rear window. The window was also broken to gain entry by an unknown individual.

A new law requires some Minnesotans to get a permit before operating a boat or personal watercraft.

The Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa recently celebrated the completion of a new heating facility. The facility will use locally sourced hardwood chips to heat the tribe's community center.

The Minneapolis City Council passed an honorary resolution Wednesday commemorating Juneteenth. The federal holiday celebrates the end of slavery in the United States.

Police report an apparent burglary at the Hortman home Jun 18, 2025

Brooklyn Park police are investigating a break-in at the home of DFL leader Melissa Hortman, and her husband Mark. The incident comes days after the Hortmans were shot and killed in their home in what authorities are calling a politically motivated attack. Police say they discovered pried-off plywood that was covering the home’s rear window, but nothing appeared to be missing.

Also, state Rep. Kristin Bahner confirmed that her home was one of the targets of the man suspected of the shootings last Saturday.

This is the MPR News evening update, hosted by Emily Reese. Theme music by Gary Meister.

Candlelight vigil to honor Melissa and Mark Hortman planned for Wednesday night Jun 18, 2025

A candlelight vigil to honor the late DFL House Leader Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark is planned for Wednesday night at Minnesota’s state Capitol. Organizers are asking attendees not to bring signs of any kind. The Hortmans were the target of a political assassination early Saturday morning at their home in Brooklyn Park. The Capitol building will be closed to the public during the vigil that begins at 8 p.m.

Federal authorities have revealed that the man suspected in the shootings had an alleged target list that included leaders of Planned Parenthood.

A Twin Cities man who joined the Islamic State terror group a decade ago is out of federal prison after providing extensive help to investigators in other terrorism cases.

The Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa recently celebrated the completion of a new heating facility.

Vigil for slain state Democratic leader Hortman set for Wednesday, as investigators search for a motive Jun 17, 2025

Investigators are still trying to figure out what motivated a man to allegedly target Democratic elected officials in a series of shootings early Saturday morning. Meanwhile, candlelight vigil to honor top state House DFLer Melissa Hortman is planned for Wednesday night on the steps of the state Capitol.

In other news, the Superior National Forest will charge people more to enter the Boundary Waters.

This is the MPR News evening update, hosted by Emily Reese. Theme music by Gary Meister.

Minnesota lawmaker shooting suspect Vance Boelter charged in federal court Jun 17, 2025

Vance Boelter has been charged in federal court with the targeted murder of state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and the shooting of state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette.

Acting U.S. Attorney for Minnesota Joe Thompson was among a contingent of law enforcement officials who discussed the shootings Monday in a news conference. Thompson alleged Boelter researched his victims and surveilled their homes before the shootings.

Boelter allegedly visited the homes of two other lawmakers the morning of the shootings. Brooklyn Park police Chief Mark Bruley said if it hadn’t been for the actions of an off-duty police sergeant who asked two officers to check on the Hortman home after the Hoffman shooting, it could have been a lot worse.

Some of the federal charges that Boelter faces are punishable by life in prison or the death penalty, if he’s convicted.

Republican Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth says Minnesota feels a loss of safety following the assassination of Hortman. Memorial tributes to her and her husband have sprung up inside and outside the Minnesota Capitol.

Severe storms — including reported tornadoes — caused damage and knocked out power to hundreds of homes and businesses Monday night. There were tornado sightings near Gull Lake and Nisswa, and possible tornadoes near Staples, Bertha, Deer Creek and Ottertail Lake.

And Minnesota chefs and restaurants earned top honors at this year’s James Beard Awards, announced Monday night in Chicago. Minneapolis restaurant Bûcheron won best new restaurant, topping nine other establishments across the country.

State, federal charges announced in Minnesota lawmakers shootings Jun 16, 2025

State and federal prosecutors today outlined charges filed against the man suspected of killing Minnesota House DFL leader Melissa Hortman and her husband.

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

Manhunt ends after suspected shooter arrested Jun 16, 2025

A two-day manhunt for the suspect in the killings of a top DFL lawmaker and her spouse ended with his capture late last night. Vance Boelter faces murder charges in the deaths of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. The 57-year-old Green Isle man also faces attempted murder charges in the wounding of state Sen. John Hoffman and his spouse, Yvette.

Boelter allegedly had a list of politicians and others, including both of Minnesota’s U.S. senators. The shootings and resulting manhunt are likely to mean big changes to the way Minnesota makes laws.

Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, are on the mend after the early Saturday shooting. That's according to a message posted by Yvette Hoffman and shared online by Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar.

Aspects of Saturday’s so-called “No Kings” rallies were canceled or curtailed because of the shootings of the Hoffmans and the Hortmans. Still, roughly 25,000 protestors gathered in St. Paul. It was part of a nationwide protest against the actions of the Trump administration.

University of Minnesota Board of Regents meeting draws protesters; Homes of some regents vandalized Jun 13, 2025

Students interrupted a University of Minnesota Board of Regents meeting today — protesting a sale of university land to an aerospace company that works with the U.S. Department of Defense.

And the homes of several members of the University of Minnesota Board of Regents were vandalized yesterday.

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

Minnesota could lose up to $500 million annually if federal funding cuts to Medicaid take effect Jun 13, 2025

Gov. Tim Walz testified before Congress Thursday about Minnesota’s cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Walz and two other democratic governors were questioned by a House committee about having what the Department of Homeland Security calls “sanctuary states.” Walz said Minnesota does not have any laws that make it a sanctuary state, and he says local law enforcement work with federal law enforcement.

A Republican candidate for governor in Minnesota, Kendall Qualls is using the Walz testimony and the national debate over immigration to stake out a position in the race. Qualls called Minnesota a sanctuary state.

Minnesota could lose up to $1.6 billion annually if proposed federal funding cuts to Medicaid take effect.

Another defendant in the sprawling Feeding Our Future case has entered a guilty plea.

I-94 will be closed to traffic in both directions this weekend between I-35W and Huron Boulevard for construction. The closure starts at 10 p.m. Friday and runs through early Monday. Traffic will be detoured north to Highway 36.

The Metro Transit B Line opens Saturday. It's a 13-mile bus rapid transit line between St. Paul and Minneapolis via Lake Street and Marshall and Selby avenues.

Gov. Tim Walz to testify at U.S. House hearing on immigration enforcement Jun 12, 2025

Effort to open land near Boundary Waters to mining has been stripped from Congressional budget bill Jun 11, 2025

An effort to open up a big swath of federal land near the Boundary Waters to copper-nickel mining has been stripped from the massive budget bill moving through Congress.

Several dozen people protested outside the Sherburne County Jail in Elk River today in support of a St. Paul woman arrested for alleged actions during a raid in Minneapolis last week.

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

Woman accused of assaulting FBI agent during Minneapolis search faces federal charges Jun 11, 2025

A St. Paul woman is facing federal charges after allegedly assaulting a FBI agent during last week’s search of a Minneapolis restaurant. In a criminal complaint, prosecutors allege the woman was recorded on video trying to punch an FBI SWAT officer as others in the crowd tried to stop her. She then allegedly kicked the agent before breaking free of the crowd and pushing another FBI agent.

The state’s response to protests following the murder of George Floyd five years ago was a point of contention in a congressional hearing Tuesday. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified before a House panel. Minnesota DFL Rep. Betty McCollum questioned sending the military to quell protests in Los Angeles. Hegseth responded by criticizing Minnesota’s handling of those protests. He said the current deployment in California is needed so federal immigration agents can conduct their operations.

Gov. Tim Walz says the Legislature showed they could work together despite being closely and deeply divided. After a regular session that featured a three-week holdout by Democrats in the House, two Senators facing criminal charges, special elections, a nearly even Republican-Democrat divide and adjournment without agreement, lawmakers came back to St. Paul and finished their work early Tuesday in a special session.

A Becker County judge has denied all pretrial motions raised by state Sen. Nicole Mitchell’s defense team in her upcoming criminal trial for burglary.

Two Minnesotans spar during Congressional hearing Jun 10, 2025

In a marathon one-day special session that ended early this morning, the Legislature passed 15 bills, most of them dealing with the budget.

And two Minnesotans — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Democratic Representative Betty McCollum — sparred during a congressional hearing today in Washington.

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

Minnesota lawmakers pass budget. Some DOH layoffs canceled Jun 10, 2025

Special session continues at Capitol Jun 09, 2025

A special session has been underway today at the state Capitol to pass a budget. Of the 14 bills that are up for a vote, one bill that would remove adult immigrants without legal status from MinnesotaCare passed the House by a small margin.

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

Special session convenes to vote on rest of Minnesota budget. Lynx extend win streak Jun 09, 2025

Minnesota Legislature sets special session; Derrick Thompson found guilty Jun 06, 2025

A special session has been called for the Minnesota Legislature - it will happen three weeks to the day after the regular session finished.

And a jury has found Derrick Thompson guilty of all charges in the deaths of five women who were in a vehicle struck by the SUV Thompson was driving in 2023.

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

Trump’s travel ban affects Minnesotans, including those from Somalia and Afghanistan Jun 06, 2025

Homeland Security agent charged with producing child sex abuse materials Jun 05, 2025

A Homeland Security agent from the Twin Cities is jailed and charged with producing child sex abuse material.

And Gov. Tim Walz says his office did not get a heads-up about a federal raid of a south Minneapolis restaurant earlier this week.

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

Layoffs possible if lawmakers don't reach deal; Cleaner air in the forecast for Minnesota Jun 04, 2025

Gov. Tim Walz says his administration will send out tens of thousands of layoff notices by Monday if legislative leaders don't reach a final deal before then that can win passage in a special legislative session.

And sighs — and breaths — of relief across Minnesota today, as the worst of the smoke from Canadian wildfires has pushed to the east.

Rep. Tom Emmer praises Trump administration’s tax bill during telephone town hall Jun 04, 2025

Officials say large federal law enforcement presence in Minneapolis was not related to immigration Jun 04, 2025

Minnesota Legislature moves to special session. 2 new measles cases in the Twin Cities Jun 03, 2025

Shooting at Boom Island Park; Air quality alert extended Jun 02, 2025

Minneapolis police are investigating after a shooting at Boom Island Park last night left one person dead and five more injured.

And more rounds of smoke from Canadian wildfires are forecast to move across Minnesota over the next couple of days. That’s prompted officials to extend an air quality alert for the entire state through midday Wednesday.

Those stories and more in today’s evening news update. Hosted by Elena See. Music by Gary Meister.

Wildfires in Canada continue to send smoke into Minnesota Jun 02, 2025

Smoky air is forcing air quality alerts May 30, 2025

An air quality alert is now in effect for all of Minnesota through Monday evening, as smoke from Canadian wildfires continues to stream across the state. That's an expansion of earlier alerts, as the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency says reinforcing waves of smoke are expected Saturday, Sunday and again on Monday.

Listen for more on the MPR News afternoon update for Friday, hosted by Emily Reese. Theme music by Gary Meister.

State trooper pleads not guilty in fatal crash case May 30, 2025

Layoff notices for state employees expected; Wildfires mostly contained May 29, 2025

Layoff notices will begin going out tomorrow as lawmakers work on unfinished pieces of the state budget.

And major wildfires burning north of Duluth for nearly three weeks are now nearly fully contained. But state officials expect the risk for more severe wildfires to remain, possibly all summer long.

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

Timberwolves’ season ends in semifinals. Convicted human smugglers get prison sentences May 29, 2025

The Minnesota Timberwolves’ season is over. They were beaten by the Oklahoma City Thunder Wednesday night 124-94. The Thunder jumped out to a 30 point lead in the first half and were never threatened. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 34 points. OKC won the best-of-seven series 4 games to 1. They play next for an NBA championship.

A federal judge in Fergus Falls sentenced two men Wednesday in a human smuggling operation that led to the deaths of an Indian family on the Minnesota-Canada border. The family was trying to cross illegally from Canada in January 2022 when a blizzard hit and they froze to death. Harshkumar Patel, a native of India, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in the smuggling ring. Steve Shand, a Florida resident, was sentenced to 6.5 years.

The Minnesota Frost celebrated another championship Wednesday night in St. Paul. It's the second year in a row the Professional Women's Hockey League team won the Walter Cup trophy.

A Minneapolis gang member convicted at a trial last fall is headed to federal prison for life.

Wildfire in Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness doubles in size May 28, 2025

A wildfire burning in the Boundary Waters in northern Minnesota is growing, leading authorities to close off a part of Superior National Forest land in the Horse River area. The Horse River fire is still relatively small, but it has more than doubled in size in recent days to nearly 25 acres, and it's burning completely uncontained.

This is the evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Bright. Music by Gary Meister.

DOJ lawsuit, federal consent decree with Minneapolis Police Department dismissed May 28, 2025

Firefighters closer to containing Minnesota wildfires May 27, 2025

Firefighters are inching closer to fully containing two wildfires that have burned for more than two weeks in northern Minnesota.

And funding for the school readiness program Head Start was spared in spending cuts the House passed, but some people who work with struggling families worry cuts could still come as the House bill is considered in the Senate.

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

Minnesota Frost win second consecutive championship. Timberwolves lose Game 4, trailing Thunder 3-1 in best-of-seven series May 27, 2025

Minnesota's professional women's hockey team has won a second consecutive championship. The Frost defeated the Ottawa Charge 2-1 in overtime last night in St. Paul. The closely matched teams battled in overtime in all four of their games. Liz Schepers took a pass from Katy Knoll to score the winning goal.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are one loss away from elimination in the NBA playoffs. They were beaten by the Oklahoma City Thunder Monday 128-126. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 40 points for OKC. Twin Cities-native Chet Holmgren scored 21 points against his hometown team. The Wolves now trail the best-of-seven Western Conference championship series 3 games to 1.

Jury selection begins today in the trial of a man accused of killing five people in a high-speed crash in Minneapolis nearly two years ago.

This weekend marks five years since George Floyd's murder May 23, 2025

Faith leaders gathered at Minneapolis City Hall today for an interfaith prayer, marking the five-year anniversary of George Floyd's murder by Minneapolis police.

And Gov. Tim Walz defended a proposal today to roll back a tax exemption for data centers in the state.

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

Events get underway today remembering the murder of George Floyd five years ago May 23, 2025

A series of events gets underway today in Minneapolis to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the murder of George Floyd and the racial justice movement that it sparked. A moment of silence will be held this afternoon at the intersection of 38th and Chicago where Floyd was killed.

The Minneapolis Park Board is closing some parking areas around Bde Maka Ska earlier in the evening. That change is in response to safety concerns stemming from large groups gathering in those parking lots at night. The Park Board said those groups have engaged in “disruptive, illegal, and sometimes violent conduct.”

The Timberwolves lost to the Thunder last night in game two of the NBA’s Western Conference championship series 118-103. The Thunder now lead a best-of-seven series 2-0.

The Minnesota Frost beat the Ottawa Charge 2-1 last night to knot the PWHL’s Walter Cup finals at a game apiece. Britta Curl-Salemme scored both Frost goals.

International student released from ICE custody. Crews make rapid progress on wildfires May 22, 2025

An international student who’s been in Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody since March was released under a judge’s order Thursday. Firefighting crews are now making quick progress on wildfires that have burned in northeastern Minnesota for nearly two weeks. And lawmakers are expecting to work through the Memorial Day weekend to finalize the bills needed to craft a two-year state budget.

DOJ drops Minneapolis police oversight agreements. U of M student to be released from ICE custody May 22, 2025

People rally against potential cuts to disability waivers; Police reform advocates speak out against possible end to federal consent decree May 21, 2025

Police reform advocates in Minneapolis are denouncing the Trump administration's attempt to drop the federal consent decree.

And a working group on the human services budget bill at the Minnesota Legislature is meeting privately to iron out differences. As they do, advocates for disabled people in the state held a rally this morning to push against possible cuts for disability waivers.

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

Minnesota lawmakers continue budget work. Timberwolves, Frost both lose opening playoff series games May 21, 2025

Here's what did pass before the Minnesota Legislature's deadline May 20, 2025

While much of the state budget will get sorted out in a special session, lawmakers passed a bill to fund several state government agencies last night.

Heavy rains that have fallen in parts of the state today will ease drought and abnormally dry conditions.

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

Minnesota lawmakers will need special session to finish budget May 20, 2025

Wildfire update for northeastern Minnesota May 19, 2025

Crews battling wildfires in northeastern Minnesota have had to contend with windy conditions today. East winds of 15 to 20 miles per hour have been accompanied by gusts of up to 40 miles per hour.

And meteorologist Sven Sundgaard says that while a system will bring rain to the state today through Wednesday, it's expected to miss the region where fires are burning.

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

Lawmakers expected to work beyond Monday adjournment deadline May 19, 2025

Minnesota governor says fire-ravaged areas will get help rebuilding May 16, 2025

Gov. Tim Walz is promising residents in the fire ravaged areas in the northeastern part of the state will get help in rebuilding.

Public sector unions are expressing frustration over a proposed plan to close the state prison in Stillwater.

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

Health care coverage for undocumented immigrants faces cuts May 16, 2025

Legislative budget deal; U of M to close racial health disparity research center May 15, 2025

Minnesota legislative leaders and Gov. Tim Walz say they have a budget deal. Leaders say the negotiations brought a bipartisan plan that balances the budget into the future.

And the University of Minnesota will close a research center focusing on racial health disparities following a plagiarism scandal.

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

Timberwolves and Minnesota Frost both advance in respective playoff series May 15, 2025

Uncontrolled wildfires continue to burn and grow in northeastern Minnesota May 14, 2025

Two large wildfires burning uncontrolled in northeastern Minnesota grew significantly overnight.

The Jenkins Creek fire more than doubled in size and has now burned more than 20,000 acres of forest, or about 31 square miles. It's burning north in a long, narrow band east of Hoyt Lakes and south of Babbitt. Meanwhile the Camp House Fire grew modestly to about 15,000 acres. That fire near Brimson has destroyed at least 144 structures.

That story and more in today’s evening update. Hosted by Kelly Bleyer. Music by Gary Meister.

Wildfires continue to burn and grow in northeastern Minnesota May 14, 2025

Hot weather, wildfires continue in Minnesota May 13, 2025

It’s another hot, dry, breezy day across the region -- creating more challenges for crews battling wildfires in northeast Minnesota. More than 40 homes and cabins have been destroyed by the fast-moving wildfires.

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

Crews in northeast Minnesota are fighting 3 rapidly-growing wildfires May 13, 2025

Campfire may have caused wildfire north of Duluth. Lawmakers barreling toward budget deadline May 12, 2025

Authorities are still investigating what caused a fast-burning wildfire about 35 miles north of Duluth, but believe a campfire may be to blame. Much of Minnesota is under an air quality alert Monday. And Gov. Tim Walz is urging lawmakers to compromise as their budget deadline quickly approaches.

Northern Minnesota wildfire prompts evacuations. Air quality alert in effect later Monday May 12, 2025

Rep. Stauber weighs in on Medicaid, Macalester offering international students summer stay May 10, 2025

At a roundtable Friday, 8th District Republican Minnesota Congressman Pete Stauber said Congressional Republicans will not cut Medicaid but, rather, work to make sure people are not abusing government help by implementing a work requirement for medical aid.

Some state lawmakers want to repeal a ban on seclusions for children in kindergarten through 3rd grade. Seclusions are forced isolations from the classroom. In Minnesota, 100 percent of children who are placed in seclusion have disabilities. Advocates for the repeal say educators need this option as a last resort, but disability rights supporters like DFL Rep. Kim Hicks argue seclusions don’t help anyone.

“We have to ask ourselves, do we really support people with disabilities and students with disabilities, if we will not stand up for the basic human right to not be locked in a box at six?” she said.

The state Department of Education recommends an "urgent end” to seclusion for all children by 2026.

Macalester College in St. Paul says it will house international students over the summer, in light of uncertain immigration rules.

In an announcement to students and staff this week, college President Suzanne Rivera said the school is worried about students not being able to get back into the country if visa rules change after they leave for the summer.

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

Macalester College offers free summer housing to international students with visa worries

Minnesota disabilities advocates push back on plan to restore school seclusion rooms

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First U.S.-born pope elected. Summer fishing season opens May 09, 2025

Catholics react to pope news; U of M talks Trump administration grant funding cuts May 08, 2025

Local Catholics are excited about the election of Pope Leo XIV from Chicago. "We have a pope! An American!" said Joan McLeod and Gailyn Ryan.

The University of Minnesota says it has lost more than 70 federal grants totaling more than $22 million in Trump administration budget cuts and that it does not know what's coming next.

And the first Republican contender has entered the 2026 Minnesota governor's race.

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

Conservation groups gather at Minnesota Capitol to protest mining in the BWCA May 08, 2025

Driver in park Tavern crash pleads guilty; Bill strengthening DWI consequences passes Senate May 07, 2025

The driver charged in a crash that killed two people and injured nine others at a St. Louis Park restaurant last year entered a guilty plea in Hennepin County court this morning.

And a bill that strengthens consequences for people with multiple DWIs has passed the Minnesota Senate.

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

Real ID takes effect Wednesday. Timberwolves lose to Warriors 99-88 in Game 1 May 07, 2025

Minneapolis State of the City; First cannabis application lottery date set May 06, 2025

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey's 2025 State of the City address was heavy on public safety improvements.

The Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management has announced the date for the first lottery to decide who will get cannabis business licenses from the state.

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

Federal judge orders Mankato college student’s release from jail May 06, 2025

Minnesota Senate ethics panel won't proceed with complaint against DFL Senate President Bobby Joe Champion May 05, 2025

A Minnesota Senate ethics panel has deadlocked along party lines and won't proceed with a complaint against DFL Senate President Bobby Joe Champion today.

The Rochester police department says it's completed an investigation into a video posted on social media that featured a woman calling a child a racial slur at a local park.

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

Suspect charged in Minneapolis shooting that killed 4 makes first court appearance May 05, 2025

White House CPB funding executive order; Rochester police investigate social media of woman calling a child a racial slur May 02, 2025

President Donald Trump's executive order directing the Corporation for Public Broadcasting's board of directors to "cease federal funding for NPR and PBS" has local stations trying to figure out how the move will affect them.

Rochester law enforcement says it's investigating a video of a local woman calling a child a racial slur. The video surfaced on social media earlier this week.

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

Minnesota House passes bipartisan funding bill for Capitol, elections, AG's office May 02, 2025

Minneapolis police announce arrest in recent shooting; Senate approves increased penalties for drivers who bypass school bus arms May 01, 2025

The Minnesota Senate approved a provision today to boost penalties for drivers who bypass extended school bus arms.

Minneapolis police announced an arrest related to a series of shootings in Minneapolis that left five people dead in less than 24 hours.

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

Timberwolves beat Lakers to advance in playoffs. Minnesota Supreme Court overturns indecent exposure conviction May 01, 2025

Minneapolis shooting update; Changes to state remote work policy Apr 30, 2025

Changes have been made to a new state remote work policy that begins in a little more than a month.

And Minneapolis police say three people are dead and two others injured -- one critically -- following a shooting overnight in the city's Phillips neighborhood.

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

Three people dead after a Minneapolis shooting Tuesday night Apr 30, 2025

Craig announces Senate run; Trump signs executive order to cut funding from sanctuary cities Apr 29, 2025

U.S. Rep. Angie Craig is running for a U.S. Senate seat that will be open in the 2026 election.

And President Donald Trump signed a new executive order yesterday to identify and cut funding for sanctuary cities, or places that don't fully comply with federal immigration policy.

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

Rep. Angie Craig is vying for Tina Smith’s U.S. Senate seat Apr 29, 2025

Legislation for stricter DWI rules; Feeding our Future update Apr 28, 2025

A bill that would place stricter rules on those with multiple DWIs is moving to floor votes in both the House and Senate.

Lawmakers got their first chance today to ask Minnesota's attorney general about a 2021 meeting he had with business owners tied to the Feeding our Future nutrition scandal.

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

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