Stories from July 26, 2023

McConnell says he's 'fine' after abruptly stopping press conference
On Capitol Hill, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell abruptly stopped speaking at a press conference with reporters on Wednesday. He was later escorted away but then returned, saying he's "fine."
22 attorneys general oppose 3M settlement over water systems contamination with 'forever chemicals'
Twenty-two attorneys general urged a federal court Wednesday to reject a proposed $10.3 billion settlement over contamination of U.S. public drinking water systems with potentially dangerous chemicals, saying it lets manufacturer 3M Co. off too easily.
Slain Fargo officer Jake Wallin remembered as a hero
A Fargo police officer killed by a gunman earlier this month was remembered at a memorial service for his character and competence. Law enforcement, the public and the Wallin family attended the service held at a Fargo arena.
For many, Minneapolis parks offer a way to beat the heat
The city of Minneapolis has pools, beaches, wading pools and splash pads plus a few water parks to help people stay cool amid sweltering temperatures. They were busy Wednesday.
Two kids shot in latest of distressing gun incidents in Minneapolis and Minnesota is heading for what could be the hottest day of the year. This is an evening update from MPR News, hosted by Tim Nelson. Music by Gary Meister.
Finn Fest opens in Duluth, commits to the city for next five years
Around 2,000 people are expected at Finn Fest in Duluth, a five-day festival celebrating Finnish culture that features music, film, art and shopping, along with talks on Finland’s recent acceptance into NATO, and even public saunas.
Two children, ages 7 and 11, were wounded by gunfire while inside a home in Minneapolis early Wednesday.
Hunter Biden plea deal falls through, at least for now, after judge expresses concern over agreement
The outcome leaves in jeopardy the resolution of a yearslong investigation into Hunter Biden’s charge with two misdemeanor tax crimes of failure to pay more than $100,000 in taxes.
Heat advisory in effect Wednesday and Thursday after beneficial rains
The last lingering thunderstorms are moving out of southeastern Minnesota Wednesday morning with clearing skies. A heat advisory is in effect midday Wednesday through Thursday evening for the Twin Cities and much of central Minnesota into western Wisconsin.
Five dozen people are facing federal charges for allegedly spending hunger relief funds on real estate, travel, and other personal expenses. The U.S. Department of Agriculture runs the programs, but the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) manages them on the state level. Lawmakers included the MDE inspector general position in this year's education bill. This is an MPR News morning update, hosted by Phil Picardi. Music by Gary Meister.
Small funnel cloud over U.S. Capitol turns into viral photo
Observant visitors to the area around the U.S. Capitol building on Tuesday afternoon were treated to a unusual sight: an unmistakable funnel cloud extending diagonally from the sky and seemingly almost reaching the tip of the Capitol dome itself.
They put food on our tables but live in the shadows. This man is fighting to be seen
Jose Martinez has picked America's food for decades. With all that experience on different farms, he saw workers lacking labor protections. Now he works to give farmworkers more rights.
As UMN officials contemplate the future of a destination academic medical system, others wait
The proposed partnership between Fairview Health Services and South Dakota-based Sanford Health was contentious from the moment it was announced, drawing ire from union officials, private citizens and public officials alike.
With Bo'u Nashir, Minnesota JCC says 'Come, let's sing!'
Riv Shapiro is the JCC's Arts and Cultural Producer. They're organizing the festival in the Twin Cities. They talked with MPR News guest host Emily Bright about it.