Minnesota News

MPR News is your go-to source for Minnesota news and stories.

From local stories from your Minnesota neighbors to breaking news updates across the state, we have you covered.

Sen. Tina Smith won’t seek reelection in 2026, putting Minnesota seat up for grabs
Sen. Tina Smith, who has represented Minnesota in the U.S. Senate since 2018, won’t try for another six-year term next year. An open seat could set off a scramble in both parties ahead of the midterm election.
Joann moves to close 500 of its stores across the U.S. amid bankruptcy, 12 in Minnesota
Struggling fabric and crafts seller Joann plans to close about 500 of its stores across the U.S. — or more than half of its current nationwide footprint. That includes 12 of its 21 locations in Minnesota.
Ramsey County benefits recipients struggle amid application backlog
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, applications for public assistance — like SNAP and Medicaid — have gone up in Minnesota. In Ramsey County, that’s led to a backlog, leaving clients with questions and without coverage while they try to find help.
Hennepin County authorities investigating after drug-laced paperwork found in jail
Law enforcement officials are investigating after an inmate at the Hennepin County Jail was allegedly caught with legal paperwork laced with drugs. A search warrant targets an attorney who met with the inmate.
‘My life was destroyed’: Marvin Haynes sues city of Minneapolis for wrongful incarceration
Marvin Haynes — a man who spent nearly 20 years in prison before a judge vacated his conviction — has filed a wrongful incarceration lawsuit against the city of Minneapolis and five police officers. 
How this Minneapolis street grew from immigrant neighborhood to culinary hotspot
13th Avenue in northeast Minneapolis is a culinary hot spot, home to some of the best restaurants in the country. This part of the city has roots as an immigrant neighborhood, a history it has not completely lost touch with even as it gains culinary fame and fancy.
Anthony Sledwards, Plowabunga! among winners in MnDOT's Name a Snowplow contest
While Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards drives the lane against NBA opponents this season, “Anthony Sledwards” will soon be clearing driving lanes for Minnesota motorists. It’s one of the eight winning snowplow names in MnDOT’s annual contest.