>>Senator Hoffman’s Bill Would Increase Lawmaker Security
(St. Paul, MN) — DFL Senator John Hoffman told lawmakers Tuesday that he continues to receive threats as the Legislature considers a plan to expand security for elected officials. Hoffman testified before the Senate Finance Committee in support of a bill that would fund additional Minnesota State Patrol troopers assigned to protective services. He said threats against public officials have sharply increased. “We have seen an exponential increase in threats of violence and harm to elected officials,” Hoffman said. “Even as I’m speaking, I continually get voicemails and emails of that nature.” The proposal would add 11 new troopers dedicated to the protective unit. Republican Senator Jeff Howe of Rockville raised concerns that the plan could pull troopers away from rural Minnesota, where staffing shortages already exist. “My concern is until we’re able to hire now 70‑some troopers, Greater Minnesota is going to lose more troopers,” Howe said. The State Patrol told the committee that any troopers reassigned from rural areas would be backfilled to prevent staffing gaps.
>>Minnesota Expands Lawsuit Over Operation Metro Surge
(St. Paul, MN) — Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, along with Minneapolis and Saint Paul, has filed an amended federal lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security, alleging that Operation Metro Surge was unlawful and unconstitutional. The updated complaint includes new data showing the operation caused significant harm, including more than $240 million in lost wages for residents and over $600 million in lost revenue for local businesses. The filing also cites survey findings of racial bias in enforcement actions. The lawsuit seeks to block similar federal operations in the future.
>>MDE Awards $3.4 Million in Teacher Mentorship and Retention Grants
(St. Paul, MN) — The Minnesota Department of Education is awarding $3.4 million to 11 districts and partner organizations to strengthen teacher mentorship and retention. The funding supports programs that help new teachers in their first three years become more effective and stay in the profession. Commissioner Willie Jett says mentorship gives new educators the support and guidance they need to grow into future teacher leaders. The programs are especially important for teachers of color, American Indian teachers, educators in shortage areas, teaching residents, and others who often face isolation, bias, or heavier workloads. Mentorship helps them navigate challenges and remain in the classroom.
>>Hegseth Signs Flu Vaccine Reversal
(Washington, DC) — Defense Secretary and Minnesota-native Pete Hegseth is ending the mandatory flu vaccine requirement for service members. This policy change aligns with the Trump administration’s efforts to reverse COVID-19 vaccine mandates and reinstate service members who were discharged for refusing them. The Pentagon now views the flu shot as a voluntary measure rather than a strictly required annual mandate. Hegseth said the War Department is once again restoring freedom to our Joint Force.
>>Milaca Man Charged with Multiple Tax Crimes
(St. Paul, MN) — A Milaca man is facing multiple felony tax charges. The Minnesota Department of Revenue says 55-year-old Richard Otten has been charged with six felony counts of failing to file income tax returns and six felony counts of willfully failing to pay. Prosecutors say Otten didn’t file or pay taxes from 2019 through 2024 while earning income through Rick’s Drywall Inc. He allegedly ignored more than two dozen notices and now owes over ninety-two thousand dollars in taxes, penalties, and interest.
