Politics and Election News

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Minnesota exports dropped in first quarter of 2025; state officials point to trade uncertainty
State officials say exports of goods from Minnesota to other countries dropped 6 percent in the first quarter of this year, compared to the same period in 2024. They attribute that — at least in part — to the Trump administration’s tariff policies.
Politics Friday: Digging into the one-day special session
The Minnesota Legislature’s work is done for now. On this special podcast edition of Politics Friday, MPR News politics editor Brian Bakst and reporter Ellie Roth recap a less-than-24-hours special session.
What to know about ‘No Kings’ protests against Trump’s policies
Opponents of President Donald Trump’s administration are set to rally in nearly 2,000 cities and towns this weekend. The No Kings Day of Defiance protests will happen during the military parade in Washington on Saturday for the Army’s 250th anniversary — which coincides with Trump’s birthday.
In the wake of U.S. aid cuts, Pastor Billy is reminded of his twin sister's death from AIDS. He doesn't want 9-year-old Diana, who's HIV-positive, to meet the same fate.
Appeals court blocks earlier ruling, allows Trump to command California Guard for now
A federal judge had ruled that Trump violated the law and had to turn control of the California National Guard back to the state Friday. But an appeals court put that on hold until a hearing on an appeal can be held next week.
Changes to American Indian mascot rules may make exemptions easier for school districts, tribes
The change to state rules around American Indian mascots will allow public school districts to seek support from the nearest tribal nation when seeking an exemption. Under the previous bill, districts had to seek support from all 11 tribal nations in the state and the Tribal Nations Education Committee.