Stories from August 11, 2025

 The city of St. Paul expects to begin putting its systems back online this week, after a cyberattack forced it to shut down its network for more than two weeks. St. Paul officials said Saturday night that the attack was a ransomware attack, adding that they’ve refused to pay the ransom and haven’t found evidence of data theft. Minnesota state government took in less revenue than it was expecting in July — the first time that's happened since January.
Burning questions: The threat of worsening wildfires on air quality
Wildfire smoke is becoming an unwelcome part of our already short Midwest summers. When we dive deeper into the issue of wildfires, however, the situation is a bit more complicated than it seems.
St. Paul says cybersecurity breach was a ransomware attack. What does that mean?
It’s been more than two weeks since the city of St. Paul took its systems offline due to a cyberattack. Over the weekend, city officials said the attackers demanded a ransom, which the city said it has not paid.
St. Paul to begin restoring online systems this week following cyberattack
The city of St. Paul expects to begin putting its systems back online this week, after a ransomware attack forced it to shut down its network for more than two weeks. St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter joined Morning Edition guest host Emily Bright to detail the plan and answer questions about the city’s response so far.
Trial to start on whether deployment of National Guard to Los Angeles violated federal law
A federal judge will hear arguments on whether the Trump administration violated federal law when it deployed National Guard soldiers and U.S. Marines to Los Angeles following June protests over immigration raids.
Stuck valve drains Lake Alice in William O'Brien State Park
A lake inside a Minnesota state park has vanished, after a mechanical issue with the valve that control’s the lake’s water level.
Morning Announcements for Aug. 11
These are the Morning Announcements for Monday, Aug. 11. Tell us what you’re celebrating!
Factories are losing immigrant workers, stressing those who remain
Trump campaigned on helping American workers through his immigration policies. Now that he’s revoked work authorization for thousands of immigrants, those left behind are feeling taxed by their absence.
Judge denies release of Ghislaine Maxwell grand jury transcripts
President Trump called for the release of the grand jury transcripts after growing pressure to divulge more information about Jeffrey Epstein’s case, but the judge on the case said there is nothing new to release.
What's ahead for electric vehicles?
Have you thought about buying an electric vehicle? Do you drive one? MPR News host Angela Davis talks about how cuts to EV funding could affect the future of electric cars and how we get around.  
Australia will recognize a Palestinian state, Prime Minister Albanese says
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced that Australia will recognize a Palestinian state. This move aligns with recent signals from leaders in France, Britain and Canada. Albanese’s decision follows internal pressure and criticism over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, which he described as a “catastrophe.”
What’s the deal with claims that birth control is dangerous?
Social media is full of videos saying hormonal contraception can hurt you and promoting natural alternatives. How did the treatments get such a bad reputation and do alternatives work?
Darren Yapi’s two second-half goals lead Rapids to 2-1 victory over Minnesota United
Darren Yapi scored twice in the second half to spark the Colorado Rapids to a 2-1 victory over Minnesota United. Neither team scored until Yapi found the net in the 60th minute to give Colorado (9-11-6) the lead. Defender Sam Vines snagged his second assist this season and the third of his career.
Keaschall hits 2-run homer in 11th as Twins top Royals 5-3
Luke Keaschall hit a two-run homer in the 11th inning, Ryan Fitzgerald homered for his first career hit, and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 5-3. 
Back-to-school shots: Pediatrician answers health care questions as federal guidance shifts
What should kids and families do to start the school year off healthy? M Health Fairview Pediatrician Dr. Lara Al-Ejeilat joined MPR News host Cathy Wurzer on Morning Edition Friday with answers.
Duluth man walks up to 12 miles a day checking in on people living on the streets
Nathan Kesti walks up to 12 miles a day around downtown Duluth, offering “compassionate accountability” to people who don’t have a home, and who are often struggling with addiction and mental health issues.