Stories from March 31, 2026

Trump signs order directing creation of a national voter list, a move sure to face legal challenges
The order, which voting law experts say violates the Constitution by attempting to seize the power to run elections from states, is the latest in a torrent of efforts from Trump to interfere with the way Americans vote based on his false allegations of fraud.
Tropical plant has a forever home in Minnesota
A retired Minnesota horticulturist has cared for a calamondin orange tree that’s been part of her family for about 60 years.
Amid public backlash, the Bemidji School board stalled on efforts to close an elementary school where 70 percent of students are Native American. And the City of Fargo has appointed an interim police chief to replace retiring Chief Dave Zibolksi.
Some international adoptees face citizenship precarity amid immigration enforcement surge
Many people, adoptees and parents included, might assume that anyone adopted by U.S. citizens would also have citizenship. But that’s not always the case. A lawyer with the Adoptee Rights Law Center based in Minneapolis explains.
Latino sexual assault survivor advocates grapple with César Chavez's legacy
On a day that used to celebrate Chavez on his birthday, March 31, Minnesota-based Latino sexual assault survivor advocacy group Esperanza United is instead turning to support survivors.
June court date set for Rep. Elliott Engen as drunk driving charges filed
Rep. Elliott Engen is due back in court on June 26 — after the Legislature adjourns — in an arrest on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. A fellow GOP legislator was in the car and carrying a handgun at the time.
Judge blocks Trump order to end funding for NPR, PBS
A federal judge has agreed to permanently block the Trump administration from implementing a presidential directive to end federal funding for National Public Radio and the Public Broadcasting Service.
Triplets! 3 baby eagles confirmed on Minnesota DNR EagleCam
Three baby eagles have hatched in the nest featured on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ EagleCam. They estimate that the young are about four days old.
Police in Hudson, Wis., said Tuesday that a person of interest was in custody in connection with a bomb threat received by a church. That threat to Faith Community Church prompted an evacuation of the church and the surrounding area.
Morning Announcements for March 31
These are the Morning Announcements for Tuesday, March 31. Tell us what you’re celebrating!
Trump voices frustration with allies as Iran war and strait closure push fuel prices higher
President Donald Trump has expressed frustration with allies who have been unwilling to help the U.S. war effort, telling them to “go get your own oil” as the conflict with Iran and its closure of the Strait of Hormuz sent average U.S. gas prices past $4 a gallon.
'For such a time as this': Faith leaders reflect on the federal immigration surge
When ICE surged into Minnesota in January, communities didn’t just face a legal issue. They faced a moral one. At a special North Star Journey Live event, faith leaders who were on the front lines reflect on what their communities experienced and discuss the importance of faith in the resistance.
Bruce Springsteen brings 'Streets of Minneapolis' home to launch a political U.S. tour
Bruce Springsteen returns Tuesday to the “Streets of Minneapolis.” After honoring its residents in song for their courage in standing up against the federal immigration crackdown, he’s using the city to launch his latest U.S. tour.
About 3,800 Minnesota residents were arrested during the federal government’s surge into the state this winter. Federal officials said in public statements during the surge that they were targeting the “worst of the worst.” The new data shows that fewer than one-quarter of those arrested had a criminal conviction on their record.
Data shows three-quarters of ICE arrestees in Minnesota had no criminal record
The new data shows fewer than one-quarter of those arrested by immigration agents in Minnesota during Operation Metro Surge had a criminal conviction on their record. A little more than 13 percent of those arrested had pending criminal charges.
Active weather continues with 2 more wintry systems ahead
Active weather continues after system No. 1 exits this morning. More rain, ice and snow are possible late Wednesday into Thursday and Friday into Saturday.
Fergus Falls construction worker still standing among ‘American Idol’ contestants
Monday’s episode of “American Idol” featured performances of songs of faith. Chris Tungseth of Fergus Falls survived as one of the top 14 contestants, but it was unclear if he made it past the next elimination round.
Moorhead group helps immigrants shape the food system, from farm to table
A Moorhead-based group is training immigrants to grow food, including produce from their native lands. Participants say tending the land and contributing to the local food system makes them feel at home.
Meet the woman who helped revamp a Minneapolis food shelf
Sherri Green, the director of critical services at Sabathani Community Center, said that the biggest reward for her work is hearing “thank you.”
WNBA and players reach landmark labor deal
Last week, the WNBA and its players reached a landmark labor deal. Catharine Richert and her guests talk about what it means for the athletes, the game and the future of the league.
Family of man killed at St. Peter psychiatric hospital sues state
The brother of a man killed at a state psychiatric hospital by a fellow patient alleges in a lawsuit filed Monday that staff ignored warning signs and allowed the alleged killer to play a violent video game in violation of hospital rules shortly before the attack.