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A new lesson in higher education: Being OK with uncomfortable conversations
Colleges around the country have been taking heat for being too politically correct and stifling robust political debate. At the University of Minnesota's Humphrey School of Public Affairs, the faculty is trying to tackle that problem. 
Senate District 60 primary results: 9 candidates running in election to decide control of the Minnesota Senate
The recent death of Minneapolis state Sen. Kari Dziedzic left a 33-33 tie in the Minnesota Senate. A primary for her seat set for Tuesday features seven DFLers and two Republicans. The primary winners from each party will face each other in a Jan. 28 election.
After second trial, jury awards $3.25 million to family of man killed by St. Paul police
A federal jury on Monday awarded $3.25 million to the mother of a man killed by St. Paul police in 2017. Kim Handy Jones, the mother of Cordale Handy, opted for a second trial in her civil suit after a judge sharply reduced the initial verdict.
Minnesota DHS commissioner steps down
Department of Human Services commissioner Jodi Harpstead announced Monday afternoon she’s leaving her role on Feb. 3.
Home care workers reach tentative contract agreement with state
Minnesota home care workers have reached a tentative agreement for a new union contract with the state. It includes a commitment to build a retirement fund and explore health care options.
Judge explains why he swore in nearly all House DFLers early
Retired Hennepin County Chief Judge Kevin Burke presided over the swearing-in ceremony and joined Morning Edition host Cathy Wurzer Monday to talk about the hushed affair.
New tools, old ways help Duluth violin builder create an ancient sound
From a modest workshop, Dan Larson turned his love of music, history and woodworking into a life building violins, lutes and and other stringed instruments. He’s known internationally for creating sounds that reach back to the 16th century.
University of Minnesota gets fast-tracked funding to survey wildlife for bird flu
Researchers in the University of Minnesota’s College of Veterinary Medicine will work with wildlife rehabilitators, tribal biologists and other partners across the state to collect 9,000 samples from a variety of birds and mammals. 
Red River Valley woman helps immigrants chase the American dream
Fowzia Adde knows inspiration can come from the darkest times. Seven years spent in a refugee camp in Kenya as a teenager fuels her drive to help immigrants succeed in Fargo-Moorhead. 
DFL, GOP jockey for power in Minnesota House a day before session’s start
House Republicans ripped DFLers over tactics that could keep the House from conducting business Tuesday. Melissa Hortman, the House’s top DFLer, defended her moves, telling MPR News that denying a quorum is “the only negotiating power I have right now.”