>>Trump Administration Ending Temporary Protected Status for Somalis
(Washington, DC) — The Trump administration is ending the temporary protected status (TPS) for Somalis living in the U-S on March 17th. President Trump announced in November that he was terminating T-P-S status for Somalis in Minnesota. Homeland Security Secretary Krist Noem said in a statement today (Tues), “Temporary means temporary. Country conditions in Somalia have improved to the point that it no longer meets the law’s requirement for Temporary Protected Status.” The U-S Department of State website still lists a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisory for Somalia. The vast majority of Somalis living in Minnesota are citizens.
>>Senator Jordan Rasmusson Announces Reelection for District 9
(Fergus Falls, MN) — Senator Jordan Rasmusson will seek reelection in Minnesota Senate District 9, covering Douglas, Grant, Otter Tail, Traverse, and Wilkin counties. “As leaders, results matter,” said Rasmusson. “I’ve fought to stop fraud, block tax hikes, and protect Greater Minnesota.” Rasmusson, Assistant Leader for the Senate Republican Caucus, led efforts to strengthen oversight of state agencies, prevent a proposed $460 million property tax increase, and end taxpayer-funded healthcare for illegal immigrants. He also secured $300 million for nursing homes, expanded rural ambulance and mental health services, and invested in local infrastructure. A sixth-generation Otter Tail County resident, Rasmusson lives in Fergus Falls with his wife, Emma, and works as a business consultant. His “Minnesotans First” approach reflects his deep local roots and private-sector experience.
>>Still Need Health Insurance for 2026? There’s Still Time!
(St. Paul, MN) — Minnesotans have until midnight Thursday, January 15th, to enroll in health insurance through MNsure for coverage starting February 1st. MNsure CEO Libby Caulum says after this deadline, enrollment is only possible with a major life change—such as moving, getting married, or having a baby. Even though Congress didn’t extend federal tax credits, Caulum says MNsure can still help you save money. “The number of eligible people has changed, and the generosity of the tax credit is also changing a little bit. But we want to make sure folks know that there are still options available. There is still some financial help available for folks who qualify.” Estimated savings for those eligible: about $600 per month. For more information, head to mnsure.org.
>>Man Fatally Shot in Brooklyn Park Apartment
(Brooklyn Park, MN) — Police in Brooklyn Park are investigating an early morning shooting that left a man dead. Officers called to the apartment around 2:45 am today found a man had been shot and provided medical aid. The victim was taken to a hospital, where he died. Investigators are looking for suspects in the shooting.
>>Activists Urge St. Paul to Drop Israeli Water Contract
(St. Paul, MN) — Pro-Palestine activists rally at noon (TUES) at St. Paul City Hall, calling on the city’s Water Board to cut ties with Waterfall Security Solutions, an Israeli cybersecurity firm contracted to oversee the city’s water system. The action, organized by Women Against Military Madness (WAMM), is part of the global Boycott, Divest, Sanctions movement. Organizers say the company’s leadership has ties to Israel’s military and accuse St. Paul of supporting apartheid. The Water Board canceled its December meeting amid growing public pressure.
>>Gophers and Badgers Border Battle at Williams Arena
(Minneapolis, MN) — The University of Minnesota men’s basketball team plays border rival Wisconsin tonight at Williams Arena. The Badgers upset number two Michigan 91-88 on Saturday in Ann Arbor. The Golden Gophers are coming off a 70-69 overtime loss to U-S-C Friday at the Barn. Both teams are 3-2 in Big Ten play. Wisconsin has won nine in a row over Minnesota.
