Here are the top moments in Minnesota politics for 2024
From Gov. Tim Walz becoming the Democratic nominee for vice president to the whirlwind conclusion of Minnesota's legislative session, 2024 was packed with political highlights in the state.
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From Gov. Tim Walz becoming the Democratic nominee for vice president to the whirlwind conclusion of Minnesota's legislative session, 2024 was packed with political highlights in the state.
Fighting fraud will likely take center stage at the State Capitol next year.
Minnesota is expected to have a $616 million surplus in the next two-year budget, state officials said Wednesday, but there is a looming $5 billion deficit in future years.
The Republican candidate in a close state House race is asking a judge to invalidate the results and declare a vacancy for that seat, which could prompt a special election sometime early next year.
A new law requiring public agencies in Minnesota to report cybersecurity incidents to state IT officials is now in effect.
Control of the Minnesota House is still up in the air as Republicans were able to flip three seats and several other races could head towards a recount.
If you have walked on a trail or swam in a lake in Minnesota you've benefited from the environmental natural resources trust fund. The fund was designed decades ago using funds from the state lottery.
The DFL monopoly on power in St. Paul is coming to an end. Democrats kept control of the Minnesota Senate with Ann John Stewart winning the only state Senate race on the ballot.
All 134 seats in the chamber are on the ballot this fall. But only about a dozen — like District 48B covering all of Chanhassen and parts of Chaska — are competitive. Roughly half of those are in the Twin Cities metro.
The race for president gets the majority of the attention as we race towards Election Day, but Minnesota could be in for some major changes on a state level, too. Democrats currently control the Minnesota House 70 seats to 64. But Republicans only need to secure 68 seats this election to take control back. As our Caroline Cummings reports, that's going to come down to just a handful of races.
In a rare special election this November, just one seat will decide the balance of power in the state Senate and decide whether DFL priorities keep getting the green light.
The move comes after the Minnesota Star Tribune published previously unreported court filings detailing several accusations against Rep. Jeff Dotseth, R-Kettle River, who is seeking a second term in the legislature.
Democrats in control of the state capitol have pushed for insurance mandates so IVF and other fertility treatments are included in health plans.
After a historic 2023 legislature session, Minnesota Republicans have their eyes on breaking up the Democratic trifecta at the Capitol. In Talking Points, Esme Murphy looks at the battle for the Minnesota House and why it could impact our lives.
Several new laws take effect in Minnesota Monday, including a fee on some retail deliveries to help fund transportation systems.
It will soon become a felony to buy a gun for someone else not legally allowed to have one — known as a straw purchase — under a new law effective Aug. 1.
Gun safety advocates are celebrating what they see as a win for Minnesota communities. State lawmakers approved tougher penalties for people who buy guns for others who are not allowed to have them. That's known as a straw purchase. Caroline Cummings reports on what you need to know.
Though the session ended in controversy, the legislature did pass some impactful policies. Rep. Melissa Hortman discusses those laws.
The Minnesota Legislature finished its work on Sunday with a chaotic close as lawmakers raced against the clock.
A new Minnesota law is considered a win-win for people in search of a job and those in search of workers.
Drive too fast in Minneapolis and you may get a speeding ticket — not from a cop, but a camera. The state legislature this year created a new lane for the city to test drive how they work.
The Minnesota Legislature ended its work for the 2024 session Sunday with a chaotic finale, as political tensions erupted over a last-minute decision by Democrats to put their unfinished priorities into one bill to get them across the finish line.
Sunday evening was a grim one at the Minnesota State Capitol, with lawmakers engaging in shouting matches during the final moments of the 2024 legislative session. But amid the chaos was a rare moment of bipartisan jubilation.
The 2024 legislative session ended in chaos. Lawmakers in both the house and senate found themselves in a shouting match in the final hours.
The Minnesota Legislature ended its work for the 2024 session Sunday with a chaotic finale, as political tensions erupted over a last-minute decision by Democrats to put their unfinished priorities into one bill to get them across the finish line.
Three people are dead after a house fire in a small western Wisconsin town early Saturday.
Scott Jensen says he is pivoting his aspirations for statewide office, dropping out of the Minnesota governor's race and instead launching his campaign for state auditor.
Lindsey Vonn thanked a journalist who wished her well on social media a day after suffering a broken leg in a devastating crash at the Winter Olympics in Italy.
A judge at an asylum hearing on Friday granted the family of 5-year-old Liam Ramos a continuance, allowing them more time to make their case, according to the family's attorney.
People describing themselves as constitutional observers tell WCCO that in the past week, reports of ICE agents disguising themselves have flooded in from the Twin Cities Metro and rural areas of the state.
Scott Jensen says he is pivoting his aspirations for statewide office, dropping out of the Minnesota governor's race and instead launching his campaign for state auditor.
A judge at an asylum hearing on Friday granted the family of 5-year-old Liam Ramos a continuance, allowing them more time to make their case, according to the family's attorney.
People describing themselves as constitutional observers tell WCCO that in the past week, reports of ICE agents disguising themselves have flooded in from the Twin Cities Metro and rural areas of the state.
Every parent will tell you, kids see everything, they hear everything and so there's no doubt little eyes and hearts are seeing and feeling the tension, especially of the last few weeks.
An early morning house fire killed one person and injured another Sunday in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, officials say.
Scott Jensen says he is pivoting his aspirations for statewide office, dropping out of the Minnesota governor's race and instead launching his campaign for state auditor.
People describing themselves as constitutional observers tell WCCO that in the past week, reports of ICE agents disguising themselves have flooded in from the Twin Cities Metro and rural areas of the state.
Last month, congressional Republicans moved closer to lifting a 20-year ban on mining near Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, pushing a resolution to end the moratorium through the House.
Several sheriff's offices in Minnesota have what's called a 287(g) agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Different models allow departments to help enforce ICE operations and to serve warrants on people inside their jails. Crow Wing County has both.
Border czar Tom Homan says in the past month, 158 people have been arrested for impeding or assaulting federal officers, with 85 cases already accepted for prosecution.
Three people are dead after a house fire in a small western Wisconsin town early Saturday.
John Lauritsen shares the story behind a massive snow sculpture that's now become a winter destination.
A jury has found a Wisconsin man guilty of forging threats against President Donald Trump in an attempt to get a witness against him deported.
Minnesota and Wisconsin are among the 11 states reporting their first measles cases of 2026.
Hundreds of schools in Minnesota and Wisconsin have closed or shifted to virtual learning on Friday amid dangerous cold.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations aren't only happening in the Twin Cities. Federal agents are also working in smaller towns, and in some, seeing similar resistance from the community.
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle-down effect it could have on consumers.
Minnesota's governor spoke out Sunday afternoon following the shooting death of Alex Pretti by federal immigration enforcement agents. "What's the plan, Donald Trump? What is the plan?" Walz said. "Fear, violence and chaos is what you wanted from us, and you clearly underestimated the people of this state and nation."
A marching protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Minneapolis Friday afternoon happened as a widespread work stoppage across Minnesota, as organizers called for a day of no work, no school and no shopping.
"When you come to our church, you see Muslims, Christians, Catholics, atheists, LGBT community, everybody with one purpose: helping the neighbor, loving your neighbor as yourself," said Pastor Sergio Amezcua
Scott Jensen says he is pivoting his aspirations for statewide office, dropping out of the Minnesota governor's race and instead launching his campaign for state auditor.
The Republican Party endorsing convention is in May, and Demuth has said that if she doesn't win the endorsement, she will drop out, but several candidates are expected to continue to the August primary.
The official DHS statistics, which had not been previously reported, provide the most detailed look yet into who ICE has arrested during the Trump administration's crackdown.
In a crowded field, Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth had a very good caucus night; she won the straw poll by about 32%.
Last month, congressional Republicans moved closer to lifting a 20-year ban on mining near Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, pushing a resolution to end the moratorium through the House.
Amid ongoing immigration operations in Minnesota, a local company is filling a desperate need for on-demand legal help.
Outside the governor's mansion in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Friday, demonstrators, including many students and teachers, pleaded for Gov. Tim Walz to enact an immediate eviction moratorium to help families impacted by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement surge.
It's part of broader protests calling on the Minneapolis-based retailer to respond more directly to immigration enforcement.
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle-down effect it could have on consumers.
For Minister JaNae Bates Imari, Co-executive director of ISAIAH — a progressive, multi-faith non-profit — it's an idea that was set into motion weeks ago.
Minneapolis Police are investigating a fatal shooting that happened Friday evening. Police say officers responded to a crash near 33rd and Chicago Avenue around 8:25 p.m.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension says it "remains committed" to working with the FBI and the Department of Justice on finding a joint path forward in the investigation into the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti.
Border czar Tom Homan says in the past month, 158 people have been arrested for impeding or assaulting federal officers, with 85 cases already accepted for prosecution.
Lang posted a video to social media of him kicking the newly-installed sculpture that reads "prosecute ICE."
Investigators have no proof that the missing mother of "Today" show host Savannah Guthrie is still alive but are holding out hope she is "still out there," the sheriff said.
Public health officials say a measles crisis has long been brewing in Minnesota.
Patients in Minnesota are canceling appointments and deferring critical health care needs because of fear of immigration enforcement as the federal crackdown continues, doctors say.
Children's Minnesota announced Tuesday it plans to pause some gender-affirming care for children amid "threats" from the federal government.
Nurses in Minneapolis doubted federal immigration officers' claims about a Mexican immigrant's severe injuries.
Minnesota and Wisconsin are among the 11 states reporting their first measles cases of 2026.
Bad Bunny says he wants to bring his culture to his 2026 Super Bowl halftime show Sunday.
Renowned comedian Dave Chappelle is set to return to the Twin Cities later this month to perform and "show a stand with a community at the center of events that should unite all Americans," show organizers said Monday.
Complete closure of the performing arts center in Washington, D.C., will start on July 4, Mr. Trump said. It's not yet clear how extensive the changes to the building might be.
Music's biggest night returned Sunday with the 68th annual Grammy Awards. Here is how to watch and stream and what to know.
In 1971, Demond Wilson appeared on an episode of "All in the Family," a role that led him to land a lead part in "Sanford and Son."
Lindsey Vonn thanked a journalist who wished her well on social media a day after suffering a broken leg in a devastating crash at the Winter Olympics in Italy.
David "Diggy" Coit scored 20 of his 28 in the final 13-plus minutes, including the game's final seven points, to help Maryland beat Minnesota 67-62.
Kawhi Leonard had 41 points and eight rebounds and the Los Angeles Clippers beat the slumping Minnesota Timberwolves 115-96 on Sunday.
Team USA defended its Olympic figure skating team event gold medal on Sunday after Ilia "Quad God" ushered the team to victory at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
The Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots Sunday to win the 2026 Super Bowl.
The Republican Party endorsing convention is in May, and Demuth has said that if she doesn't win the endorsement, she will drop out, but several candidates are expected to continue to the August primary.
In a crowded field, Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth had a very good caucus night; she won the straw poll by about 32%.
The state of Minnesota is vowing to continue the legal battle after it and 12 cities were denied a temporary restraining order that would have shut down Operation Metro Surge.
The state of Minnesota is vowing to continue the legal battle after it and 12 cities, including St Paul and Minneapolis, were denied a temporary restraining order that would have shut down Operation Metro Surge.
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle-down effect it could have on consumers.
John Lauritsen shares the story behind a massive snow sculpture that's now become a winter destination.
Northland Arboretum was built half a century ago on top of what was once a city dump. But over time, nature carved its own path with a little help from a Zamboni.
St. James is a smaller town with a main street and a railroad running though. But inside a local building, the main street and the railroad are even smaller.
On Dec. 9, 1965, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" debuted on CBS, and it became an instant classic. Lee Jenkins' home is proof that the show is still a hit six decades later.
Holiday lights are on full display across the state right now, and just south of the Twin Cities you'll find a Christmas light show that's been around for more than half a century.
According to the Police Executive Research Firm, 82% of police departments in the United States equip officers with body cameras. That number comes from 2023, meaning it could be even higher by now.
With the new $2,600 stipend, DHS said the cost of a single self-deportation is $5,100. That's significantly less than the cost to arrest, detain and deport an undocumented immigrant, which DHS said costs more than $18,000.
It might be hard to believe, but it's gotten warmer outside over the past few days. The temperature is creeping above zero during the day, but the wind chill remains dangerously low. So, how is wind chill calculated?
Minnesota gun rights are in the spotlight after U.S. Border Patrol agents shot and killed a lawful gun carrier over the weekend.
It's a saying Minnesotans and Wisconsinites know well: "There's no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing." The problem is that even proper clothing might not be enough to withstand the bitter chill headed for the bold north.
Minnesotans got a great view of the northern lights Tuesday night.
A look at the newest addition to the polar bear population at St. Paul, Minnesota's Como Zoo.
From food shelves to school programs, our team is proud to serve where it matters most.
The Minnesota State Fair has unveiled its new food, drinks and vendors for 2025.
A suspect was taken into custody after an attack on Pearl Street Mall in Boulder on June 1 in which there were 15 people and a dog who were victims. The suspect threw Molotov cocktails that burned some of the victims, who were part of a march for Israeli hostages.
Monday is the warmest day of the week, with light rain possibly mixing with snow Monday evening across central Minnesota, WCCO meteorologist Joseph Dames reports.
In Minnesota, weather can be all over the place. Here at WCCO, we want to give you what you need to prepare for what's happening next.
Monday will be the warmest day of the week, with light rain possibly mixing with snow Monday evening across central Minnesota.
The Twin Cities will be very above average all week, with highs generally in the 40s — 30s on Tuesday and Wednesday — and lows in the 20s.
Highs will reach the 40s in the Twin Cities on Monday, and some precipitation is possible in the evening.
Ashley Klatte-Olson, with Ruthie's House Vintage, shares a preview of what you could find in a vintage store.
Anthony Tucker, with Hoop Habits, shares some advice.
Monday is the warmest day of the week, with light rain possibly mixing with snow Monday evening across central Minnesota, WCCO meteorologist Joseph Dames reports.
A judge at an asylum hearing on Friday granted the family of 5-year-old Liam Ramos a continuance, allowing them more time to make their case, according to the family's attorney.
An update on Minnesota's paid leave program, authorities continue to search for clues related to the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie and more.