AI & Speech Rights: A Wednesday hearing will decide whether Minnesota can temporarily enforce its new ban on AI “nudification,” as xAI argues the law is overbroad and violates the First Amendment. Immigration Enforcement Clash: Minnesota AG Keith Ellison sued Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to force extradition of ICE agent Christian Castro, accused in a Minneapolis shooting and alleged false reporting; Abbott’s delay could mean Castro is released soon. Boundary Waters Mining: Gov. Tim Walz signed an executive order blocking copper-nickel mining work in the Rainy River Headwaters watershed, escalating the Boundary Waters fight amid political pressure from both sides. Elections & Security: Tensions flared on an election security call for state leaders hosted by Homeland Security/CISA, with officials criticizing the Trump administration’s approach as midterms near. Women’s Political Milestone: Minnesota set a record by nominating women for major statewide offices, with Peggy Flanagan and Michele Tafoya in the Senate race and Amy Klobuchar vs. Lisa Demuth for governor. Local Government: St. Louis County Schools faces a make-or-break operating referendum, warning of staffing cuts and larger class sizes if it fails. Minneapolis Civil Rights: A new Minneapolis ordinance would require bars and restaurants to post alcohol-and-dress-code rules publicly to curb “velvet rope” discrimination. Public Safety/Justice: Federal sentencing news includes a Texas man getting 21+ years for blackmailing a Minnesota child into explicit images, and a separate case where a Mankato man pleaded guilty to receiving child pornography.