Politics and Government News

Trump instructed to obey court rules ahead of Manhattan criminal trial
At a hearing Tuesday in New York, which former President Donald Trump attended via video conference, Judge Juan Merchan ordered Trump to obey a protective order or face a possible contempt ruling.
Rep. Dean Phillips: Sen. Feinstein 'clearly losing mental acuity,' should resign
When Sen. Feinstein returned to the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing room earlier this month, the 89-year-old got a standing ovation. But Rep. Dean Phillips shared concerns about the Democrat’s physical and mental fitness.
As session ends, Democrats ‘run the table’ at Capitol
Democrats were celebrating passing all their major priorities as the 2023 legislative session came to an end Monday night. Republicans were left to hope voters will want a change in 2024.
State lawmakers fast-track passenger rail between Duluth and the Twin Cities
State lawmakers have approved $195 million in funding for the Northern Lights passenger rail line connecting the Twin Ports and Twin Cities. Rail advocates have fought for it for decades, despite concerns about cost and ridership.
Minneapolis nonprofit seeks host homes for transgender youth traveling to Minnesota
As other states pass bans on gender-affirming care, a Minneapolis nonprofit says it's fielding more calls from transgender youth who are coming to Minnesota for care and need a place to stay. It’s asking Minnesotans to help by hosting them.
Legislature plans restrictions on electronic pull-tabs
A finish-line addition to this year's tax bill will clamp down on electronic pull-tabs, which have become a cash cow in Minnesota since they were legalized to pay for the Vikings stadium in 2012.
Minnesota Legislature passes $72 billion budget; ends session
Minnesota lawmakers ended their 2023 session before their midnight deadline Monday, after passing a big health and human services budget bill and a capital works construction package. DFLers said they had achieved all their goals for the session.