Politics and Government News

Departure of longtime Minneapolis council member brings opportunity for political newcomers
The retirement of longtime Council Member Lisa Goodman means that for the first time in 25 years, the seat spanning part of downtown and some of the city’s most affluent neighborhoods is up for grabs.
Southeast Minnesota struggles for common ground on nitrate pollution as health worries rise
In a petition filed in April, environmental groups asked the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to use its emergency powers under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act to intervene in what they call an “imminent and substantial endangerment to human health.”
Minnesota governor drops college-degree requirement for most state jobs
Gov. Tim Walz said Monday that the state would no longer require four-year college degrees as a condition for 75 percent of state positions. He said the move could grow the eligible applicant pool.
Four out of seven seats on the St. Paul council will be open this November on the 2023 ballot. Of the seven wards, only three have incumbent members running for re-election. Here is a closer look at the races in St. Paul.
On the Minneapolis ballot this November is all 13 City Council seats. Of the 13 wards, 11 have incumbent members running for re-election — most of them are moderates, and they hold a majority on most issues brought before the council. Here is a closer look at the races in Minneapolis.
On the ballot this November in Duluth is the mayoral race, six city council seats and three school board seats. City council candidates are vying for six seats: two at-large positions and one each in the 1st District, 3rd District, 4th District and 5th District. Here is a closer look at the races in Duluth.  
Judge weighs challenge to Minnesota felon voting law
Anoka County District Court Judge Thomas Lehmann heard arguments Monday in a challenge to a new state law that more quickly restores voting rights. Under it, voting eligibility kicks back in when incarceration ends, regardless of a person’s supervised release or probation status.
Dean Phillips works New Hampshire streets for presidential bid
Democratic Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips is courting New Hampshire voters this week. He'll hold his first town hall as a presidential candidate Wednesday in Manchester.