Politics and Government News

Stay updated with the latest political and government news. MPR News covers local, state and national politics, providing in-depth analysis and updates on policies, elections and governmental actions.

Government funding bill clears Congress and heads to President Biden, averting a shutdown
The Senate has rushed through final passage of a bipartisan plan to fund federal operations and prevent a government shutdown. It now goes to President Joe Biden, who is expected to quickly sign it into law.
Trump’s reelection victory pushes some LGTBQ Minneapolis residents to safety training
For some marginalized communities the second Trump term is fraught with fears over personal safety. In Minneapolis, one organization is helping with de-escalation services and gun training.
Carter takes scalpel to St. Paul budget with line-item veto, approves smaller levy increase
St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter used his line-item veto power to cut several items from the city’s 2025 budget, but the city council overrode all of the vetoes at a special meeting late Thursday afternoon.
House rejects Trump-backed plan on government shutdown, leaving next steps uncertain
With a resounding no, the House rejected President-elect Donald Trump’s new plan Thursday to fund federal operations and suspend the debt ceiling a day before a government shutdown, as Democrats and dozens of Republicans refused to accommodate his sudden demands.
Advocates seek to prepare for possible ‘mass deportations’ without fearmongering
Minnesota immigrant rights groups say they want to avoid evoking fear in their communities, but are finding ways to stay prepared ahead of the next Trump presidency.  
Minnesota hastens to regulate helium mining after deposit discovery near Babbitt
Minnesota is scrambling to figure out how to regulate a potential new industry — one discovered by accident — that is both extremely valuable and in demand.
Donald Trump said he wants to ban trans athletes from competing. The reality is more nuanced
President-elect Donald Trump’s campaign promise to ‘ban’ transgender athletes struck a chord with voters. It’s uncertain, however, what exactly Trump will do once his second term begins in January. 
How much power would RFK Jr. have at HHS? A former health secretary weighs in
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is making the case with senators that he should lead Health and Human Services. Kathleen Sebelius, who had the job under Obama, explains the power and limits of the role.
After losing VP bid, Walz searches for role in pushing back against Trump
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz saw his national profile skyrocket when he became Vice President Harris’ running mate. Now, he’s back home figuring out when he will push back or work with Republicans.