Politics and Government News

Munson loan swells fundraising for open congressional seat
State Rep. Jeremy Munson leads all candidates in fundraising for the special Republican primary for the open congressional seat of the late U.S. Rep. Jim Hagedorn, including his widow Jennifer Carnahan, but only because Munson lent his campaign $200,000 of his own money.
 Talking affordable housing with Chris Coleman
Former St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman has been leading Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity for almost four years. MPR News host Angela Davis spoke with Coleman about housing, the pandemic and racial equity.
Congress seeks compromise to boost computer chip industry
A global computer chip shortage has made it harder for consumers to get their hands on cars, computers and other modern-day necessities. Congress is looking to boost chip manufacturing and research in the United States with billions of federal dollars.
Sarah Palin is attempting a comeback in Alaska, but her star has dimmed at home
The former GOP vice presidential candidate resigned as Alaska governor in 2009. Even around her hometown of Wasilla, many Republicans soured as she gained a national following as a culture warrior.
Speaking of genocide, Biden escalates the war of words over Ukraine
The concept and practice of the U.S. government deciding what to recognize as a genocide is profoundly political, both in contemporary and historical cases.
Money to nonprofits a key difference on public safety legislation
There are big differences in the public safety plans that lawmakers are considering at the Minnesota Capitol this session. For one, Gov. Tim Walz and the House Democrats want to fund nonprofit community groups that are fighting crime. Republicans in the Senate don’t support that approach. 
Walz pads cash lead as Qualls, Jensen rake in most for GOP
Having the most money doesn’t always mean electoral success, but some party activists view it as a measure of viability when they choose candidates.