Politics / Elections

Minnesota’s budget and economic forecast shows current surplus with a looming deficit

ST. PAUL, Minn. (KVRR/KFGO) — Minnesota’s budget and economic outlook remains stable in the current biennium. State officials are predicting a surplus of nearly $2.5 billion in the current biennium, but a $2.96 billion deficit for the 2028-29 budget. The Minnesota Management and Budget Office says a better-than-expected fiscal year close and higher near-term revenue collections, partially offset by increased…

Carbon storage ruling adds uncertainty, North Dakota energy industry says

Representatives from Summit Carbon Solutions present during a Department of Mineral Resources hearing related to a carbon dioxide storage permit on June 11, 2024, in Bismarck. A judge’s order could have implications for the storage permit, which was later approved by state regulators. (Photo by Kyle Martin/For the North Dakota Monitor)BISMARCK, N.D. (North Dakota Monitor) — A court’s finding that…

MyPillow’s Mike Lindell files to run for Minnesota governor

FILE – MyPillow chief executive Mike Lindell speaks to reporters outside federal court in Washington, June 24, 2021. On Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, a federal judge affirmed a $5 million arbitration award against the MyPillow chief executive in favor of a software engineer who challenged data that Lindell claims proves that China interfered in the U.S. 2020 elections and tipped…

ND Emergency Commission discusses $1.3 million in staff bonuses, but takes no action

Rep. Don Vigesaa, R-Cooperstown, speaks during a Dec. 2, 2025, meeting of the North Dakota Emergency Commission. At right is House Majority Leader Mike Lefor, R-Dickinson. (Mary Steurer/North Dakota Monitor)BISMARCK, N.D. (North Dakota Monitor) — A proposal to give roughly $1.3 million in bonus pay for 12 Retirement and Investment Office employees took a step forward Tuesday after officials had…

Grant money available for small North Dakota fire departments

Manvel, ND Fire Department Cooperative Fire Protection AssistanceBISMARCK, N.D. (KVRR-KFGO) — The North Dakota Forest Service is accepting applications for the Cooperative Fire Protection Assistance program. Grant funds are available to enhance fire protection and prevention capabilities of North Dakota’s fire departments. Applications will be accepted from fire departments that serve a population of 10,000 or less. Funds may be…

New parents can apply Wednesday for Minnesota’s Paid Leave Program

ST. PAUL, Minn. (KVRR-KFGO) — State officials are preparing to launch Minnesota’s new Paid Leave program. Department of Employment and Economic Development Commissioner Matt Varilek says they begin accepting early applications Wednesday, Dec. 3. He says, “Any eligible Minnesota parent who welcomed a child in 2025 will be able to apply for leave to be used in 2026.” Varilek says…

Capitol Christmas tree lighting ceremony held in Bismarck

First Lady Kjersti Armstrong, Santa & Gov. Kelly Armstrong/FacebookBISMARCK, N.D. (KVRR) — At the state capitol tonight, Gov. Kelly Armstrong and First Lady Kjersti Armstrong had the honor of lighting the Capitol Christmas tree. A crowd filled Memorial Hall for music, holiday readings, carols, cookies and hot chocolate before the lighting of the tree. Santa even made a stop with…

Xcel cuts electric rate increase for North Dakota customers in half

Public Service Commission members Sheri Haugen-Hoffart, left, and Randy Christmann take part in a meeting in Bismarck on Jan. 8, 2025. The commission is considering a rate increase for Xcel Energy. (Photo by Jeff Beach/North Dakota Monitor)BISMARCK, N.D. (North Dakota Monitor) — Xcel Energy has agreed to cut a proposed electricity rate increase for North Dakota customers. The agreement that…

U.S. Treasury investigating Minnesota tax dollars possibly linked to Al-Shabaab

@SecScottBessent/X WASHINGTON, D.C. (KVRR/FOX9) — U.S. Treasury is looking into claims that Minnesotans’ tax money might have been misused to support the terrorist group Al-Shabaab. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the investigation via social media writing it was initiated due to concerns over the management of funds under the Biden Administration and Gov. Tim Walz. He says Treasury is working…