Stories from May 16, 2025

Gov. Tim Walz is promising residents in the fire ravaged areas in the northeastern part of the state will get help in rebuilding. Public sector unions are expressing frustration over a proposed plan to close the state prison in Stillwater.
Despite court rulings in his favor, U of M student still fighting for freedom from ICE custody
“I keep winning in the courts, but I am still detained,” says Doğukan Günaydın, in a newly filed document in his lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security, which has appealed a judge’s decision to have him freed on bond.
How to watch Paige Bueckers' WNBA debut, as Hopkins renames itself in her honor
As Paige Bueckers sets to make her highly anticipated WNBA regular-season debut, the city of Hopkins has renamed itself in her honor, and a local brewery will be offering “Paige’s 3-Point Pale” ale.
EF-2 tornado confirmed in Wisconsin
At least one tornado has been confirmed after a powerful line of severe thunderstorms swept through Minnesota and Wisconsin on Thursday, producing multiple tornado reports, widespread damaging winds and large, destructive hail.
Shigehiro Oishi says a ‘psychologically rich life’ is important to consider in his new book
There are many ways to live well. In his new book, “Life in Three Dimensions,” psychology professor Shigehiro Oishi says we should consider a psychologically rich life just as important as happiness and meaning.
Farmers weigh Trump’s trade war like they watch the weather, waiting to see how things go
Farm country voted heavily for Donald Trump last November. Now many farmers are taking a wait-and-see attitude toward the Republican president’s disputes with China and other international markets. More than half of U.S. soybeans are exported internationally, with roughly half of those going to China, so it’s a critical market.
As the WNBA season tips off, here are 4 of our biggest questions
Will a new-look Indiana Fever contend in Caitlin Clark’s second year? Will A’ja Wilson win a record 4th MVP? And the biggest question of all: Can the league as a whole build on last season’s success?
Hospital tells family brain-dead Georgia woman must carry fetus to birth because of abortion ban
A hospital is using a breathing tube and other measures to keep a brain-dead Georgia woman's body functioning because she is pregnant. Her family says it should have the option to stop the life-support devices but that they've been told state law removes that choice.
Gov. Tim Walz and legislative leaders struck a budget deal that rolls back health care coverage for undocumented immigrants. Minnesota's second-oldest prison facility is closing. State leaders say they are shutting down the Stillwater correctional facility in phases with the goal of closing the prison by June 2029.
Minnesotans brace for the worst as they check on their homes in the path of the wildfires
Residents of northeastern Minnesota were able to check on what is left of their homes and properties on Friday. Federal officials say the rebuilding process will be long, but they are ready to help.
Budget pact will be put to test as Minnesota lawmakers fill in details, bring plan up for votes
An agreement that sets parameters for a new two-year budget will allow for final negotiations and votes in the Legislature. It probably will require a special session to complete.
‘Dream come true’: Soccer player aims to inspire Hmong women like her to play sports
Bee Chang started playing soccer in high school and was offered a position with the Minnesota Aurora FC, the pre-professional women’s soccer team. She’s now the new assistant coach for the Aurora 2, the developmental team.
Under attack, public media makes its case to Congress and the courts
Nearly 200 officials from public radio stations across the country are descending on Capitol Hill to seek to convince lawmakers to maintain funding for public broadcasting despite President Trump's campaign against it.
Marshall man released after nearly two months in ICE custody
Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers arrested Aditya Harsono in March at his job at a hospital days after his student visa was revoked without his knowledge. Harsono had been in custody for almost two months at the Kandiyohi County Jail.