4/14/2025 -- Wolves Clinch Playoff Spot

🚧 The warming weather means road construction is also going to heat up. Make sure you’re in the loop about upcoming interstate closures that could affect your morning commute.

Government

Minnesota Launches Dashboard to Monitor Federal Grant Cuts 💲

The Summary: Thousands gathered at the Minnesota State Capitol last Saturday for the "Hands Off!" rally, protesting federal budget cuts under the Trump administration. The state has lost $296 million in federal grants, with an additional $55 million at risk of cancellation. Layoffs have already occurred, with 170 employees at the Minnesota Department of Health losing their jobs following a $220 million funding cut.

Minnesota's Federal Funding Dashboard: Governor Tim Walz unveiled a new public dashboard on Wednesday to track federal funding cuts affecting Minnesota. The tool provides real-time updates on canceled or disrupted funding streams and allows residents to search by region and program. Cuts have primarily affected public health initiatives, including infectious disease response and vaccine distribution.

Impacts of Federal Cuts: Federal funding reductions have disrupted essential services across Minnesota. Key losses include $220 million from the Department of Health, leading to slower infectious disease outbreak responses and canceled vaccine clinics. The Department of Human Services lost $27.5 million in grants, impacting school-based mental health services and behavioral health care. Additionally, $18 million in agricultural grants were canceled before funds could be distributed.

Education

Minnesota Department of Education Rejects Federal Order to End DEI Programs

The Summary: The Minnesota Department of Education has rejected a Trump administration directive to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in schools. Commissioner Willie Jett questioned the legality of the request, stating that Minnesota's programs already comply with federal law.

Federal Funding Threats: The federal order threatens funding cuts for non-compliant schools, citing potential violations of civil rights laws. Minnesota receives significant federal education funding, which could be impacted by this decision. Legal challenges are anticipated if funding is withheld.

What’s Next: The situation remains uncertain as other states consider their responses. Potential legal battles could set significant precedents for DEI programs nationwide. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison has issued guidance to schools on navigating these challenges.

Politics

Omar To Run For Re-Election: Rep. Ilhan Omar has announced her decision to seek reelection for her U.S. House seat in Minnesota's 5th Congressional District, opting not to pursue the Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Tina Smith. This will be Omar's fifth term in the House, where she has consistently won strong support, including nearly 75% of the vote in her last election in 2024.

Ethics Complain Filed: Minnesota Senate Republicans have filed an ethics complaint against Senate President Bobby Joe Champion, accusing him of steering state funds to a nonprofit led by his former legal client, Rev. Jerry McAfee, without disclosing their prior relationship. Champion, who denies any conflict of interest, has temporarily stepped down as chair of the Senate Ethics Subcommittee.

What Else We’re Reading…

Delays Incoming For Minnesota Recreational Marijuana Dispensaries

Minnesota's recreational marijuana dispensaries are likely to face significant delays, with the best-case scenario for opening being late spring or early summer 2026. This delay is due to the lack of approved rules for the program, which prevents licenses from being issued until at least late May or early June. The process of setting up operations, including testing facilities and supply chains, will take several months, further contributing to the delay

Sports 🏀

🏀 The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Utah Jazz to lock up a playoff spot and the six seed in the Western Conference. They are set to face the LA Lakers in the first round. Anthony Edwards won the NBA three point crown during the game on Sunday.

⚾ The Minnesota Twins’ season has gotten off to a rough start having won just five of their first 16 games. However, they managed to salvage a Sunday win against the Detroit Tigers yesterday.

⚽ The Minnesota United Loons played to a draw against Toronto on Saturday. They currently sit in second place in the MLS Western Conference.

Quick hits

Headlines From Around The Twin Cities & Greater Minnesota ✔

❯ A former New Ulm teacher was sentenced to prison for distributing child sexual abuse material (Mankato Free Press)

❯ Rent control is on the St. Paul City Council’s agenda once again (MinnPost)

❯ St. Paul has created a new public safety committee to oversee the spending on police (KSTP)

The Final Word: Feeling Bold

Well, the Twins are officially off to an incredibly uninspiring start to the season. At 5-11, they certainly don’t look like a team that many people were picking to win the AL Central.

With all that said, I want it documented that on April 14th, 2025, I am making a prediction that the Twins will still make the playoffs. I mean, what’s the point of being a Minnesota sports fan if you don’t intentionally set yourself up for disappointment?

-Patrick