Politics and Government News

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'I'm still exhaling': Swing-state voters on Biden's 100 days
President Joe Biden has been in office for 100 days, and polls show most Americans are giving him positive marks so far. But in one pocket of swing-state Wisconsin, where a suburban surge helped elect the Democrat, that support often falls short of adulation. Biden gets credit for bringing stability and not being Donald Trump.
Explainer: What remains as U.S. ends Afghan 'forever war'
Starting Saturday, the last remaining 2,500 to 3,500 American troops will begin leaving, to be fully out by Sept. 11 at the latest. Another debate will likely go on far longer: Was it worth it?
'We did it!': Minnesota exults at Census win at NY's expense
In Minnesota — a state that's long seen itself as above average — residents voluntarily returned their census forms at the highest rate in the nation. Their dedication likely saved the day — Minnesota will retain its eight House seats — and many took to social media to exult. As one wrote: "Never try and defeat Minnesota in a paperwork contest."
FDA moves to ban menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars
Menthol has been the last allowable flavor in cigarettes, and the FDA says marginalized communities are far more likely to use these products.
Walz, Democrats insist on police changes
With time in the legislative session growing short, Gov. Tim Walz and DFL lawmakers say changes to police powers should be an issue on the table. They were joined by one House Republican, but Senate Republicans have not expressed an interest in passing similar legislation. 
White farmers sue seeking government loan forgiveness
A group of Midwestern farmers sued the federal government Thursday alleging they can't participate in a COVID-19 loan forgiveness program because they're white.
State aid for Twin Cities businesses uncertain as end of session looms
Nearly a year after unrest that followed the death of George Floyd, businesses damaged in the violence are watching for signs of help from lawmakers in St. Paul. State Rep. Fue Lee, DFL-Minneapolis and chair of the bonding committee in the House, spoke with MPR News host Cathy Wurzer.
Biden speech takeaways: Government is good, and so are jobs
The president said the U.S. is "on the move again" after struggling through a devastating pandemic that killed more than 570,000 Americans, disrupted the economy and shook daily life. And he pitched an expansive — and expensive — vision to rebuild the nation's roads, bridges, water pipes and other infrastructure, bolster public education and extend a wide swath of other benefits.