>>DFL U.S. Senate Candidates Hold First Debate
(St. Paul, MN) – DFL U.S. Senate candidates Angie Craig and Peggy Flanagan squared off for the first time for approximately 30 minutes on Almanac Twin Cities PBS Friday night. The two candidates were asked about a number of issues including immigration, fraud, Israel, and social security. Both cited polls showing they are leading among Democrats. Congresswoman Craig says she brings the experience of passing legislation at the national level and is the candidate with the better chance of holding off Republicans, while Lt. Governor Flanagan said she is the candidate that can bring affordability to Minnesota. The two candidates have two more planned debates including at Farm Fest in early August.
>>Two Found Dead During Welfare Check In Babbitt
(Babbitt, MN) — Authorities in Babbitt are investigating after two people were found dead during a welfare check Thursday morning in northern Minnesota. Police say an officer responded to a home around 11 a.m. and discovered two adults inside with apparent gunshot wounds. The identities of the deceased have not been released, and investigators have not said what led to the shooting. The case remains under investigation.
>>Child Revived After Water Emergency At Rush City Pool
(Rush City, MN) — A young girl is recovering after being pulled unresponsive from a public swimming pool in Rush City on Friday afternoon. The Chisago County Sheriff’s Office says pool staff noticed the child in distress shortly after noon and quickly removed her from the water. Employees immediately began lifesaving efforts before emergency responders arrived. Authorities say the girl regained consciousness and was alert when first responders reached the scene. She was taken to a hospital in Cambridge for further evaluation. No additional information has been released.
>>Grandma’s Marathon Draws Thousands To Duluth For 50th Running
(Duluth, MN) — Duluth is bustling with activity as thousands of runners, spectators, and volunteers gather for Grandma’s Marathon today. Race spokesman Zach Schneider says the event is about more than just the races, noting that the entire community helps welcome visitors from across the country and around the world. This year’s race marks the 50th anniversary of Grandma’s Marathon, a milestone Schneider says reflects decades of teamwork and community support. Organizers estimate the event generates nearly $40 million in economic impact annually, providing a significant boost for local hotels, restaurants, and businesses throughout the region.
>>Rural Economy Shows Signs Of Improvement
(Undated) — A new survey of rural bank CEOs across the Midwest suggests economic conditions are improving in small-town America. The latest Rural Mainstreet Index climbed above growth-neutral levels in June, marking its strongest reading in three years. Creighton University economist Ernie Goss says the overall trend is moving in the right direction, with fewer negative indicators than in recent months. The survey found 58 percent of respondents see stable or modest growth among rural small businesses. The monthly index tracks economic conditions in several states, including Minnesota.
>>Special Olympics USA Games Open Tonight In Minneapolis
(Minneapolis, MN) — Thousands of athletes, coaches, and families are in Minnesota as the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games officially begin tonight(Sat) at Huntington Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. Nearly 3,000 athletes from across the country will compete in 16 Olympic-style sports over the next week. Organizers say this year’s Games will feature two new sports making their debut at the national event — cornhole and pickleball. Competition and activities will continue through June 26th at venues across the Twin Cities, with Minnesota sending one of the largest state delegations to the Games.
>>Minnesotans Still Planning Summer Vacations Despite Higher Costs
(Undated) — Inflation isn’t stopping Minnesotans from taking summer vacations, but it is changing how they travel. Industry forecasts show strong demand for summer trips this year, with many families opting for shorter getaways and destinations closer to home. Travel experts say higher costs for gas, airfare, lodging, and dining are prompting travelers to look for ways to stretch their budgets. In Minnesota, that could mean more road trips, cabin stays, camping adventures, and visits to state parks instead of longer, more expensive vacations.
