AGP Executive Report

Courts & Immigration: A federal judge has blocked the Trump Justice Department from using grand jury subpoenas to pressure Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, and other state officials in an immigration enforcement dispute, calling the subpoenas “blatantly unlawful” and meant to “coerce” and “harass” political opponents. Economy: Minnesota’s unemployment rate fell to 4.4% in May as private employers added jobs, with the state gaining about 5,400 non-farm jobs overall. Elections: Absentee voting is now open for Minnesota’s August 11 primary, with options for mail, in-person, and early voting in Olmsted County. Local Government: Pine Island is facing free-speech questions after adopting a tighter public comment policy for open meetings. Policy & Environment: The Twin Metals project’s path has advanced after federal action lifted a long-running mining moratorium tied to the Superior National Forest. Labor: Concessions workers at Target Field staged the first stadium strike in its history, seeking higher pay and health insurance.

Federal Courts vs. DOJ Immigration Probe: A Minnesota-based federal judge, Patrick Schiltz, quashed six DOJ subpoenas targeting Gov. Tim Walz, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, and other Minnesota Democratic officials, saying the subpoenas were meant to “harass, coerce, and retaliate” over their resistance to Trump’s immigration crackdown. Immigration Crackdown Scrutiny: Human Rights Watch released a report calling the “Metro Surge” a manufactured crisis, alleging killings, racial profiling, and dismantled oversight, and naming senior DHS officials for investigation. Local Government Watch: Minneapolis City Council committee action is set to move toward a Thursday vote on adult bathhouse rules and a ShotSpotter contract, with community groups pushing for policy changes. Healthcare Transparency: CentraCare hospitals received federal warnings tied to price-disclosure rules, highlighting ongoing compliance pressure on Minnesota providers. Public Safety: A 65-year-old man was killed after being struck by a vehicle near Bemidji; the driver stayed on scene and showed no signs of impairment. Politics & Money: Ilhan Omar faces renewed scrutiny over financial disclosures, as critics allege her reported net worth swings reflect accounting issues.

Minnesota Fraud Watch: A St. Paul man faces felony charges after investigators allege he submitted thousands of false Medicaid time sheets for personal care assistant and homemaker services he didn’t provide, totaling about $78,266 in alleged overpayments. Public Safety: Minneapolis police say a woman was shot in the head during an altercation at Bossen Field Park; no suspects were in custody. In Itasca County, a teenager is accused of shooting a sheriff’s deputy with the deputy’s own gun during an attempted arrest, leaving the deputy with a through-and-through wound. Statehouse & Elections: The Minnesota GOP governor primary is heating up as early voting for the Aug. 11 contest begins, with a new SurveyUSA/KSTP poll showing MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell leading among GOP voters while Lisa Demuth and Kendall Qualls chase Trump’s endorsement. Legislative Action: In the Minnesota Senate, Sen. Bill Lieske’s bill would streamline licensing and sales rules for limited malt liquor while keeping public-safety guardrails. Local Politics: Dakota County Commissioner Mike Slavik has filed for re-election, pitching experience on budgeting, public safety, roads, and infrastructure. Education: New MCA results highlight strong reading participation at Neill Elementary, with third grade leading the school’s 2024-25 reading segment.

Minnesota Politics & Government: Minnesota AG Keith Ellison snapped at reporters while facing questions about the state’s fraud scandal, rejecting an $8 billion figure as politically “aligned with the Trump Administration” and walking away mid-interview. Public Safety: A Minneapolis man accused of assaulting federal officers tied to Operation Metro Surge saw charges dismissed, with the case raising fresh questions about how federal agents handled the incident. Elections & Policy: Utah joined California, Illinois, and Minnesota in passing safeguards for children featured in monetized social media content, requiring parent compensation and allowing later takedowns. Tribal & Local Governance: White Earth Band election results are reshaping debate over a proposed $177 million casino and entertainment complex near Moorhead, with a new leader saying he lacks information to support the project. Community & Culture: The Waadookodaading Ojibwe Language Institute received a $1.5 million MacKenzie Scott gift to build a Community Language Revitalization Center. Statewide Watch: Minnesota is banning crypto ATMs after scam reports tied to nearly $1 million in losses, with removal required by year-end.

Local Public Safety: A St. Peter officer was shot in the arm during a pursuit and standoff; the suspect died and the officer was reported stable, with a shelter-in-place order lifted after negotiations failed. State Politics & Elections: Minnesota’s U.S. Senate primary debate drew attention to fraud and accountability as Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan and Rep. Angie Craig faced off in their first major matchup. GOP Party Turmoil: Rep. Peggy Bennett is calling for the resignation of three top Minnesota GOP officials, alleging bias and manipulation in the gubernatorial race. Health & Fraud: A Blaine personal care assistant is accused of billing Medicaid for services never provided, allegedly using others’ identities and collecting more than $116K. Immigration Enforcement: Trump floated renaming ICE to “NICE,” while broader ICE arrest and deportation figures continue to drive national debate. Special Olympics in Minnesota: Opening-week events in Blaine kicked off with a coast-to-coast torch run and major local economic impact estimates. Agriculture: A farm crisis explainer points to rising bankruptcies and mounting pressures from lower crop prices, tariffs, higher costs, and labor shortages. Community History: Blue Earth’s Seneca canning plant marked 100 years of operation, tracing its roots to the Minnesota Valley Canning Company and the Green Giant era.

Minnesota Medicaid & health spending: New federal data show local Medicaid billing changes across the state, including Redwood Falls dental payments rising to $18,928 in 2024 (+21.4%), Burnsville procedures/professional services up to $2.7M (+3.6%), Rosemount national Medicaid codes jumping to $2.9M (+75.6%), and Shoreview alcohol/drug treatment climbing to $2.9M (+41.6%). Education testing: Minnesota MCA participation and proficiency snapshots highlight uneven results, from Matoska International’s grade 5 math participation (86 tested; 53% proficient) to Melrose Middle School’s science testing limited to eighth grade (100 tested; 9% proficient). Statehouse bills: Rep. Josiah Hill introduced a vehicle registration tax change with an income-targeted rebate (HF5148), while Rep. Burkel filed a bill reshaping nonprofit exemptions under Minnesota’s corporate farm law. Military & immigration enforcement: A new report alleges secret vetting and blocked promotions inside the U.S. military under Pete Hegseth, while Minnesota-related federal actions continue to target anti-ICE protesters. Local politics & public safety: Minnesota AG Keith Ellison faced fresh scrutiny in a fraud-related interview clip, and lawmakers advanced proposals tied to law enforcement holds for immigration detainers.

ICE Oversight & Medical Care: A Minnesota-linked immigration detention story is back in the spotlight as attorneys say a detainee’s father—shot during a federal arrest in Los Angeles—has been denied adequate treatment, raising fresh questions about DHS/ICE accountability. State Politics & Fraud Fight: Minnesota AG Keith Ellison snapped back during a fraud scandal grilling, disputing a widely cited $8 billion figure and responding to JD Vance’s threat of a DOJ referral. County Budget Pressure: Blue Earth County board members kick off levy talks with a proposed 9.8% increase for 2027, tied to human services staffing needs under a new child welfare law. Public Safety: St. Peter police say an officer was shot during a pursuit that ended with a suspect barricaded inside a home; the BCA is investigating. Crime & Courts: Two Texas brothers pleaded guilty in federal court for an $8M crypto kidnapping/robbery targeting a Minnesota family, with up to 20 years on the table. Community & Culture: Known MPLS released a Father’s Day single celebrating Black men, with a Minnesota “love letter” EP planned next. Weather: Severe storms brought hail to parts of the Chippewa Valley.

Immigration & Courts: DHS is pushing back on Minnesota officials after an ICE agent accused in a “road rage” gun case faces a state prosecution, escalating a broader fight over whether federal officers get special protections. Public Safety & Federal Power: A new Human Rights Watch report says Minnesota’s “Operation Metro Surge” caused a humanitarian crisis, including trauma that drove sharp increases in local suicide hotline calls. Elections & Military at Polls: Sen. Elissa Slotkin unveiled the Protect Our Polls Act to require Congress to approve any armed federal presence at polling places. Gun Policy (Minnesota): A Minnesota bill from Rep. Jones would tighten assault weapons rules and magazine capacity. DFL Senate Race: Minnesota Democrats will debate U.S. Senate candidates Angie Craig and Peggy Flanagan tonight ahead of the August primary. Special Olympics (Minnesota): Team Kentucky arrived in Minneapolis for the 2026 USA Games, with opening ceremonies Saturday at U of M’s Huntington Bank Stadium. Local Government: Hennepin County board discussions include hiring a consultant for the Hennepin Healthcare System board. Education (MCA): Multiple districts reported strong science or reading participation results, while statewide proficiency continues to lag pre-pandemic levels.

Immigration Enforcement Tech: A newly revealed DHS document says local police working with ICE can use a mobile facial recognition app that scans faces, compares them to 250M+ government records, and stores photos for 15 years—raising fresh Minnesota privacy and civil-rights alarms. Federal Charges vs. Protesters: Fifty progressive groups condemned federal charges against 15 Minnesota anti-ICE protesters, calling the DOJ case political intimidation tied to “Operation Metro Surge,” while a Human Rights Watch report describes a “human rights crisis” from the ICE crackdown. State vs. Federal Gambling Rules: Minnesota and California AGs are challenging whether the CFTC should regulate prediction markets, arguing states understand the gambling impact better and that the platforms function like sportsbooks. Local Safety Alert: Nicollet County issued a shelter-in-place for the Washington Terrace neighborhood due to an ongoing law enforcement situation. Community & Culture: La Crescent opened its first adult-use marijuana dispensary, and Minnesota’s 148th Fighter Wing received the 2026 Rudy Perpich Public Service Award from Grandma’s Marathon.

Immigration Enforcement: A Reuters review of ICE records finds deaths in U.S. immigration detention have more than doubled under Trump, with cases including detainees dying after medical emergencies and lack of emergency care. Minnesota Fallout: Human Rights Watch says Minnesota’s “Operation Metro Surge” involved racial profiling, threats, chemical irritants, property destruction, and fatal shootings during ICE’s winter deployment in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Federal Court & Protests: DOJ announced charges tied to Minnesota anti-ICE protests, while labor and faith groups argue the indictments are meant to intimidate political opponents. Housing & Local Economy: Thief River Falls broke ground on a 65-unit apartment project, “The Edge,” backed by a Minnesota tax incentive and DigiKey funding. State Policy Watch: Minnesota Senate bills include proposals affecting legislator per diem and rental licensing rules, as lawmakers continue shaping governance details. Education Metrics: Wayzata Central Middle School reported high 8th-grade math MCA participation and proficiency, while other programs show very limited testing participation. Public Finance: A report warns more than 1M Minnesotans could face Social Security cuts by 2032 if Congress doesn’t act.

Immigration Enforcement: Human Rights Watch says Trump’s “Operation Metro Surge” in Minnesota involved unlawful killings, excessive force, racial profiling, and abusive detentions, urging accountability after a reported human rights crisis. ICE Spotlight: In Florida, an ICE officer is praised after jumping into a pool to rescue a six-year-old and performing CPR until the child recovered. State & Local Politics: Minnesota homeowners are getting “quintile” property value notices tied to reassessments that could raise taxes, with assessors’ home visits optional but potentially impactful. Public Safety & Environment: Lyon County is testing PFAS runoff evaporation at its landfill to reduce contamination reaching the Marshall wastewater plant, supported by an MPCA grant. Sports & Community: The PWHL draft made Caroline Harvey the first overall pick by Vancouver, while Marshall’s A’s host a free Military Appreciation Night featuring the 34th Infantry Division “Red Bull” band.

Immigration & Courts: Federal prosecutors charged 15 people tied to alleged antifa-linked activity in Minnesota, accusing them of conspiring to impede ICE during immigration raids, with some arrested and others still at large. Public Safety & Politics: A St. Paul mayoral threat case is moving through the courts: Pao Her Lee faces felony threats and harassment charges tied to videos and emails Her received after the Hortman and Hoffman killings. DFL Fallout: A new Minnesota poll finds Gov. Tim Walz’s approval at 39%, his lowest point, as fraud scandals erode support heading into the final year. Health Care Costs: A report says 18 Minnesota hospitals aren’t following federal price transparency rules, raising concerns about surprise bills. Statehouse/Policy: The Minnesota Senate is considering bills on electronic vehicle documentation and commuter benefits, while lawmakers also review measures affecting SNAP emergency funding and student career programs. Local Government: The Met Council is continuing water rebate grants to Circle Pines and Lino Lakes to cut household water use. Other: MLB Pride Night backlash continues after league warnings about altering Pride caps; and Minnesota’s MCA science participation/proficiency snapshots keep rolling out by school.

Immigration Enforcement Crackdown: U.S. prosecutors charged 15 people in Minnesota, alleging they conspired to impede or injure ICE officers during “Operation Metro Surge,” with officials saying the defendants were tied to two Minneapolis-based antifa groups; arrests and first court appearances drew protests. Accountability in Courts: The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case on whether some immigrants can be held indefinitely in detention, focusing on when prolonged detention requires a bond hearing. Public Safety & Justice: ICE arrested a Russian man in New York accused in a fatal Minnesota semi-truck crash; the victim’s family says the arrest brings closure after a short jail sentence. Higher Ed Funding: Minnesota launched the SELF Grad Loan to replace gaps left by federal Grad PLUS changes, offering low-interest options for graduate students. Education Snapshot: New state test data highlights MCA participation and proficiency at local schools, including Cologne Academy and ROCORI Middle School. Local Governance: Minneapolis dog owners are pushing back as the Park and Recreation Board considers shutting down the Minnehaha Off-Leash Dog Park over sacred land concerns. State Policy Watch: A Minnesota House bill would end some data center tax exemptions and tighten requirements. Community Events: New Ulm plans a Military Appreciation Day on June 24 at Johnson Park.

Federal Immigration Crackdown Fallout: U.S. prosecutors charged 15 Minneapolis-area activists with conspiracy to impede or injure federal officers tied to anti-ICE protests during “Operation Metro Surge,” alleging links to Direct Action Minnesota and two “antifa” groups; 12 were arrested Tuesday, two remain at large, and charges include assault and property destruction. Legal Pressure on DHS/ICE Standards: A separate report says ICE revised national detention rules after a top contractor privately pushed changes that would benefit its legal position, including removing language about paying detainees at least $1/day. State Services Under Strain: Minnesota lawmakers and disability-services advocates are holding a town hall on DHS provider revalidation delays, warning nearly 200 people with disabilities could lose access to services if appeals fail. Local Public Safety Funding: Rochester City Council authorized applying for a FEMA SAFER grant to hire 15 firefighters over three years starting in 2027. Education Funding Vote: Bemidji-area schools are watching a constitutional amendment that would change how the Permanent School Fund distributes money, potentially boosting districts’ revenue. Energy Costs Watch: GasBuddy data shows some of the week’s lowest prices in Minnesota counties, with regular gas hitting $3.68 in Sherburne County and E15 as low as $3.64 in Washington County.

Immigration & Public Safety: Minneapolis police are searching for a suspect who shot at officers in north Minneapolis; no one was injured, but residents were briefly told to shelter in place. Federal Policy & Minnesota Impact: Higher-ed groups and Democratic attorneys general sued the Trump administration over federal funding tied to anti-DEI contract mandates, arguing the rules are unfair and unlawful. Privacy & State Rights: Hawaiʻi’s consumer protection office joined a coalition opposing the federal SECURE Data Act, saying it would preempt stronger state privacy protections. Housing & Homelessness Funding: A new HUD promise of about $193 million for youth homelessness raises the key question of whether Minnesota’s Black, Native, and immigrant-led local groups will actually receive the money. Labor & Community Defense: The AFL-CIO convention in Minneapolis highlighted the Twin Cities labor-community “blueprint” for resisting federal immigration crackdowns. Minnesota Education: Monticello School Board ratified a new two-year teachers contract after nearly a year of negotiations. Local Notes: New Ulm honored military members at a Flag Day event; and a Byron golf tournament raised money for Minnesota military families through Folds of Honor.

Immigration & Enforcement: Gov. Gavin Newsom says the Justice Department is investigating him and his wife at President Trump’s direction, alleging agents have been knocking on friends’ and former employees’ doors to “dig” for wrongdoing. Federal Funding & Border Policy: Rep. Pete Stauber touts the Secure America Act, saying it boosts CBP and ICE through 2029 as border encounters and removals rise. Minnesota Courts & Ballot Access: A South Dakota ballot-petition deadline fight is headed to a Federal Court showdown in Minnesota, with opponents arguing the shortened timeline harms First Amendment petition circulation. Public Safety & Roads: Minnesota’s lane-splitting/lane-filtering law (effective July 1, 2025) allows certain motorcycle passing at low speeds, with clear bans in school zones, work zones, roundabouts, and on freeway on-ramps. Environment & Wildlife: The DNR opened applications for 12 elk licenses statewide through July 7, citing higher elk counts from 2026 surveys. Local Life & Community: Stillwater’s Food Truck Extravaganza returns June 20 at the Washington County Fairgrounds, with proceeds supporting a high school trades scholarship fund. Health & Consumer Protection: Hawaiʻi’s consumer office joins a coalition opposing a federal data privacy bill that would preempt stronger state protections. Sports & Culture: The NBA offseason buzz is heating up after the Knicks’ title, while Minnesota’s World Cup watch continues through local events and screenings.