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National

Democrat Troy Jackson unseats Susan Collins in Maine Senate race

Politics & Policy

A night of historic firsts for the 2026 midterms

Kansas elects first Democratic senator in 94 years

Democrat Rob Sand flips Iowa's governor seat

Socialism on the march

Minnesota's early voting total shatters midterm records

The conventional wisdom is that it's good news Democrats, but the data suggests a more complicated picture.

News

More than 728,000 Minnesotans had already cast ballots as of Friday, shattering the state record for early voting in a non-presidential election.Why it matters: The conventional wisdom is that strong early turnout is a good sign for Democrats — but elections experts caution that it doesn&#x27;t necessarily predict overall turnout or which party will benefit.

What to watch in Minnesota's midterm election 

Voters will decide control of the Legislature, fill statewide offices and weigh in on local races.

If you aren&#x27;t one of the record <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="860,000-plus Minnesotans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-early-voting-record/601908497" data-vars-content-id="64929c47-b94b-42d4-aa3e-86632e540ab5" data-vars-headline="What to watch in Minnesota&#x27;s midterm election " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-early-voting-record/601908497" target="_blank">860,000-plus Minnesotans</a> who have <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="already voted" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/11/02/minnesota-record-early-voting-midterm" data-vars-content-id="64929c47-b94b-42d4-aa3e-86632e540ab5" data-vars-headline="What to watch in Minnesota&#x27;s midterm election " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/11/02/minnesota-record-early-voting-midterm" target="_self">already voted</a>, it&#x27;s time to get to the ballot box and fill those bubbles. The stakes: Sky-high. At the top of the ticket, Minnesotans will pick a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new governor" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/10/23/minnesota-governor-election-2026-dfl-trifecta-laws-klobuchar-demuth" data-vars-content-id="64929c47-b94b-42d4-aa3e-86632e540ab5" data-vars-headline="What to watch in Minnesota&#x27;s midterm election " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/10/23/minnesota-governor-election-2026-dfl-trifecta-laws-klobuchar-demuth" target="_self">new governor</a> and a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new U.S. senator" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/10/16/minnesota-senate-debate-2026-watch-listen-time" data-vars-content-id="64929c47-b94b-42d4-aa3e-86632e540ab5" data-vars-headline="What to watch in Minnesota&#x27;s midterm election " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/10/16/minnesota-senate-debate-2026-watch-listen-time" target="_self">new U.S. senator</a>. <ul><li>All 201 state legislative seats are up for grabs, with the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="balance of power at the State Capitol on the line" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/10/30/minnesota-2026-legislature-election-republicans-democrats-trifect" data-vars-content-id="64929c47-b94b-42d4-aa3e-86632e540ab5" data-vars-headline="What to watch in Minnesota&#x27;s midterm election " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/10/30/minnesota-2026-legislature-election-republicans-democrats-trifect" target="_self">balance of power at the State Capitol on the line</a>. </li></ul>

Nicollet Avenue set to reopen at Lake Street 

Fixing one of the biggest blunders in city history cost millions.

Nearly 50 years after one of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="worst planning decisions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.mprnews.org/story/2019/12/12/why-the-kmart-still-stands-at-lake-and-nicollet-as-other-minnesota-outlets-close-down" data-vars-content-id="d8248f94-da52-448b-98ce-bb0958c801bc" data-vars-headline="Nicollet Avenue set to reopen at Lake Street " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.mprnews.org/story/2019/12/12/why-the-kmart-still-stands-at-lake-and-nicollet-as-other-minnesota-outlets-close-down" target="_blank">worst planning decisions</a> in city history, Nicollet Avenue is slated to reopen at Lake Street next month. Why it matters: The &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Nicollet Wall" data-vars-click-url="https://www.minnpost.com/politics-policy/2014/04/history-nicollet-wall-and-hamstrung-city-hall/" data-vars-content-id="d8248f94-da52-448b-98ce-bb0958c801bc" data-vars-headline="Nicollet Avenue set to reopen at Lake Street " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.minnpost.com/politics-policy/2014/04/history-nicollet-wall-and-hamstrung-city-hall/" target="_blank">Nicollet Wall</a>,&quot; which was a Kmart store, severed a major commercial corridor in 1977, and city leaders have spent decades — and millions of dollars — trying to undo the blunder.

What to do this Halloweekend in the Twin Cities 

Larger-than-life puppets, stilt walkers, fire artists, musicians and more will return to Powderhorn Park.

Things to Do

Larger-than-life puppets, stilt walkers, fire artists, musicians and more will return to Powderhorn Park this week for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="BareBones Puppetry" data-vars-click-url="https://barebonespuppets.org/" data-vars-content-id="67f06d96-13b1-4063-8f4f-8964c7127ee3" data-vars-headline="What to do this Halloweekend in the Twin Cities " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://barebonespuppets.org/" target="_blank">BareBones Puppetry</a>&#x27;s 33rd annual Halloween Extravaganza.Driving the news: This year&#x27;s theme, &quot;Hum, Honk, Howl: As Above, So Below,&quot; explores themes of grief, life, death and hope, co-directors said in their <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="annual artist statement" data-vars-click-url="https://barebonespuppets.org/wp-content/uploads/Barebones-Halloween-Extravaganza-2026-Directors-Statement.pdf" data-vars-content-id="67f06d96-13b1-4063-8f4f-8964c7127ee3" data-vars-headline="What to do this Halloweekend in the Twin Cities " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://barebonespuppets.org/wp-content/uploads/Barebones-Halloween-Extravaganza-2026-Directors-Statement.pdf" target="_blank">annual artist statement</a>.

Former Minneapolis Chamber CEO to be sentenced

Weinhagen is accused of embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars while running the chamber

Jonathan Weinhagen, who pleaded guilty to embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="while CEO" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/06/27/jonathan-weinhagen-minneapolis-chamber-resigns" data-vars-content-id="646d052d-8238-4eb8-a257-cd37f5454265" data-vars-headline="Former Minneapolis Chamber CEO to be sentenced" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/06/27/jonathan-weinhagen-minneapolis-chamber-resigns" target="_self">while CEO</a> of the Minneapolis Regional Chamber, will be sentenced on Jan. 7, according to federal court filings.

New Wolves ownership still wants downtown arena

Mayor Jacob Frey signaled some flexibility on location, public help.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reshuffled Wolves/Lynx ownership group" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/21/minnesota-timberwolves-lynx-stad-lore-arod" data-vars-content-id="c85ddc9c-e1ff-43e7-835b-f164d193d836" data-vars-headline="New Wolves ownership still wants downtown arena" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/21/minnesota-timberwolves-lynx-stad-lore-arod" target="_self">reshuffled Wolves/Lynx ownership group</a> is still committed to building a new arena in Minnesota, preferably in downtown Minneapolis, but CEO Matt Caldwell said he expects the public to help pay for it.

It's prime homebuying season — with a caveat 

Inventory is up and competition has waned, but mortgage rates remain stubbornly high.

The chaos of spring and summer <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="homebuying" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/07/17/median-metro-home-price-reaches-400k-for-first-time" data-vars-content-id="bf8e63db-bba5-420b-b50b-0e7c4e6f3b44" data-vars-headline="It&#x27;s prime homebuying season — with a caveat " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/07/17/median-metro-home-price-reaches-400k-for-first-time" target="_self">homebuying</a> is over and the Twin Cities are entering the best time of the year to snag a house, according to a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Realtor.com report" data-vars-click-url="https://www.realtor.com/research/best-time-to-buy-2026" data-vars-content-id="bf8e63db-bba5-420b-b50b-0e7c4e6f3b44" data-vars-headline="It&#x27;s prime homebuying season — with a caveat " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.realtor.com/research/best-time-to-buy-2026" target="_blank">Realtor.com report</a>. Why it matters: This sweet spot gives buyers a break from the bidding wars and waived home inspections that are more common earlier in the year.

Minnesota college basketball seasons tip off 

None of the teams are considered contenders, but all could be Cinderellas

Sports

The college basketball season begins tonight, and it doesn&#x27;t look promising for Minnesota&#x27;s teams.

Vikings are 6-0 ... what are the chances?

History says that teams that win their first six games go to the Super Bowl nearly half the time.

The Vikings are off to a surprise 6-0 start this season and NFL history implies that means they have a coin flip chance of making it to the Super Bowl. By the numbers: Of the last 20 teams to start 6-0, nine of them made the Super Bowl and two of those nine won the Super Bowl, according to Pro Football Reference.

Minneapolis spa menu: Back scratch or "beat me up"

Wellness Brief

You scratch my back, I&#x27;ll … pay you for it.The big picture: The back scratch — a soothing gesture once exchanged between partners or parents and children — is now a paid service, reflecting Americans&#x27; hunger for human touch and connection amid widespread <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="loneliness and isolation" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2024/02/15/depression-living-alone-national-health" data-vars-content-id="fa8db029-7406-4962-909a-2816c7bc11d8" data-vars-headline="Minneapolis spa menu: Back scratch or &quot;beat me up&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2024/02/15/depression-living-alone-national-health" target="_self">loneliness and isolation</a>.

Face it: Massages aren't just for your back anymore

Facial muscles can benefit from some TLC.

One spot getting more massage treatment: the face.Why it matters: &quot;We&#x27;re holding more tension in the face,&quot; thanks partly to the strain of looking at screens, Twin Cities esthetician Christina Snead tells Axios.

Map: How Peggy Flanagan held Minnesota's U.S. Senate seat

Explore results from the race that kept a key U.S. Senate seat in Democratic hands.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Democrat Peggy Flanagan" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/peggy-flanagan-democratic-primary-minnesota-senate-results" data-vars-content-id="c3923af4-74fa-49fc-8caf-2ce85d321ff1" data-vars-headline="Map: How Peggy Flanagan held Minnesota&#x27;s U.S. Senate seat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/peggy-flanagan-democratic-primary-minnesota-senate-results" target="_self">Democrat Peggy Flanagan</a> defeated Republican <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Michele Tafoya" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/michele-tafoya-republican-senate-primary-minnesota-results" data-vars-content-id="c3923af4-74fa-49fc-8caf-2ce85d321ff1" data-vars-headline="Map: How Peggy Flanagan held Minnesota&#x27;s U.S. Senate seat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/michele-tafoya-republican-senate-primary-minnesota-results" target="_self">Michele Tafoya</a> in Minnesota&#x27;s U.S. Senate race, the Associated Press projects, keeping a key seat in Democratic hands.The big picture: Flanagan won more than 54% of the vote to Tafoya&#x27;s roughly 43%.

Amy Klobuchar wins Minnesota governor's race

She will be the first woman governor in the state's history.

Democratic <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/klobuchar-minnesota-democratic-primary-governor" data-vars-content-id="454f2f36-204d-49a8-b0bf-f24088cf0426" data-vars-headline="Amy Klobuchar wins Minnesota governor&#x27;s race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/klobuchar-minnesota-democratic-primary-governor" target="_self">U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar</a> won Minnesota&#x27;s governor&#x27;s race, the Associated Press projects. The big picture: The four-term U.S. senator centered her campaign on a pledge to crack down on the widespread social services fraud that dogged outgoing DFL Gov. Tim Walz&#x27;s tenure.

Democrat Peggy Flanagan defeats Michele Tafoya in Minnesota Senate race

The Minnesota lieutenant governor defeats Republican Michele Tafoya, keeping a key Senate seat in Democratic hands.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Democrat Peggy Flanagan" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/peggy-flanagan-democratic-primary-minnesota-senate-results" data-vars-content-id="9fce2a97-88c2-4b11-9402-1f434e86dc2d" data-vars-headline="Democrat Peggy Flanagan defeats Michele Tafoya in Minnesota Senate race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/peggy-flanagan-democratic-primary-minnesota-senate-results" target="_self">Democrat Peggy Flanagan</a> defeated Republican <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Michele Tafoya" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/michele-tafoya-republican-senate-primary-minnesota-results" data-vars-content-id="9fce2a97-88c2-4b11-9402-1f434e86dc2d" data-vars-headline="Democrat Peggy Flanagan defeats Michele Tafoya in Minnesota Senate race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/michele-tafoya-republican-senate-primary-minnesota-results" target="_self">Michele Tafoya</a> in Minnesota&#x27;s U.S. Senate race, the Associated Press projects, keeping a key seat in Democratic hands.The big picture: Voter anger over President Trump&#x27;s policies — including his administration&#x27;s immigration crackdown — helped propel the progressive Democrat to victory. <ul><li>Flanagan&#x27;s win denied Republicans the opportunity to flip a Senate seat that Democrats have held for nearly a quarter-century.</li></ul>

"I Voted" stickers become tributes at ICE memorials

The tributes highlight how the Trump administration's unpopular immigration crackdown is motivating voters this election cycle.

Voters in Minneapolis and Houston are among those leaving <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="&quot;I Voted&quot; stickers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/03/election-day-midterm-trump-democrats-republicans" data-vars-content-id="833e0c9d-a629-42aa-bebb-1a124a6614bf" data-vars-headline="&quot;I Voted&quot; stickers become tributes at ICE memorials" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/03/election-day-midterm-trump-democrats-republicans" target="_self">&quot;I Voted&quot; stickers</a> at memorials for people killed by federal <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="immigration" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/immigration" data-vars-content-id="833e0c9d-a629-42aa-bebb-1a124a6614bf" data-vars-headline="&quot;I Voted&quot; stickers become tributes at ICE memorials" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/immigration" target="_self">immigration</a> agents.Why it matters: The tributes highlight how the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="833e0c9d-a629-42aa-bebb-1a124a6614bf" data-vars-headline="&quot;I Voted&quot; stickers become tributes at ICE memorials" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> administration&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="unpopular" data-vars-click-url="https://apnews.com/article/trump-immigration-ice-minneapolis-deportation-42aff472ccf1ecd7b92ba0c90469c9e7" data-vars-content-id="833e0c9d-a629-42aa-bebb-1a124a6614bf" data-vars-headline="&quot;I Voted&quot; stickers become tributes at ICE memorials" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-immigration-ice-minneapolis-deportation-42aff472ccf1ecd7b92ba0c90469c9e7" target="_blank">unpopular</a> immigration crackdown is motivating voters this <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="election" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/election-results-voting" data-vars-content-id="833e0c9d-a629-42aa-bebb-1a124a6614bf" data-vars-headline="&quot;I Voted&quot; stickers become tributes at ICE memorials" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/election-results-voting" target="_self">election</a> cycle.

Mayor Frey tells developers: Ask me for money 

The city's leader wants to help finance conversions of office buildings to residential

Mayor Jacob Frey took a desperate tone with developers last week, telling a room full of them to come to him and ask for subsidies. Why it matters: It&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="not the first time" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2023/03/29/mayor-frey-supports-office-conversion-apartments" data-vars-content-id="45631ceb-062e-410b-9bfe-c93ce92ce474" data-vars-headline="Mayor Frey tells developers: Ask me for money " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2023/03/29/mayor-frey-supports-office-conversion-apartments" target="_self">not the first time</a> Frey has signaled the city wants to play ball on subsidies, but these comments bordered on begging as the mayor struggles with a spiraling downtown tax base.

Minnesota 2026 election guide: Attorney general, secretary of state and auditor 

Three statewide contests could shape how Minnesota handles elections, fraud and public spending.

All of Minnesota&#x27;s constitutional offices are on the ballot next Tuesday.Why it matters: While the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="U.S. Senate" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/10/16/minnesota-senate-debate-2026-watch-listen-time" data-vars-content-id="c22f1d1d-ecef-4ec0-8198-2b926e5963ff" data-vars-headline="Minnesota 2026 election guide: Attorney general, secretary of state and auditor " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/10/16/minnesota-senate-debate-2026-watch-listen-time" target="_self">U.S. Senate</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="governor&#x27;s races" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/10/23/minnesota-governor-election-2026-dfl-trifecta-laws-klobuchar-demuth" data-vars-content-id="c22f1d1d-ecef-4ec0-8198-2b926e5963ff" data-vars-headline="Minnesota 2026 election guide: Attorney general, secretary of state and auditor " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/10/23/minnesota-governor-election-2026-dfl-trifecta-laws-klobuchar-demuth" target="_self">governor&#x27;s races</a> have sucked up most of the oxygen, the outcome of other statewide contests could also have major impacts on Minnesotans&#x27; lives.

Minneapolis weighs dissolving public safety office

A series of worrisome audits and blown budgets has raised questions about the Office of Community Safety's oversight capacity.

The Minneapolis City Council has advanced a proposal to dissolve the Office of Community Safety (OCS).Why it matters: A series of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="worrisome audits" data-vars-click-url="https://kstp.com/tracking-your-tax-dollars/minneapolis-audit-finds-gaps-in-behavioral-crisis-response-program-oversight/" data-vars-content-id="7c42d4cd-7055-40f1-9c49-68ffc487fb90" data-vars-headline="Minneapolis weighs dissolving public safety office" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://kstp.com/tracking-your-tax-dollars/minneapolis-audit-finds-gaps-in-behavioral-crisis-response-program-oversight/" target="_blank">worrisome audits</a> and blown budgets has raised questions about OCS&#x27; ability to coordinate Minneapolis&#x27; police and fire departments with the city&#x27;s many <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="experiments with unarmed public safety workers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/07/02/minneapolis-police-union-contract-mpd-reforms#:~:text=What%20remains%20from,public%20safety%20programs." data-vars-content-id="7c42d4cd-7055-40f1-9c49-68ffc487fb90" data-vars-headline="Minneapolis weighs dissolving public safety office" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/07/02/minneapolis-police-union-contract-mpd-reforms#:~:text=What%20remains%20from,public%20safety%20programs." target="_self">experiments with unarmed public safety workers</a>.

Charted: Opioid deaths fall again

New state data shows deaths involving meth and cocaine increased even as opioid overdoses fell.

Opioid overdose deaths fell in 2025 for the third straight year, newly released data from the Minnesota Department of Health shows. <ul><li>Non-fatal overdoses involving opioids also dropped 2% year-over-year.</li></ul>

Twin Cities weekend: Pumpkins and Powerdrills, adult book fair

Get creative with a jack-o'-lantern while supporting a Twin Cities community resource.

Need some porch decor before Halloween? Get creative with a jack-o&#x27;-lantern while supporting a Twin Cities community resource this weekend.Drilling the news: The Minnesota Tool Library&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pumpkins and Powerdrills" data-vars-click-url="https://www.mntoollibrary.org/pumpkinsandpowerdrills" data-vars-content-id="6210135d-a409-4387-82ba-c07f3bd0b670" data-vars-headline="Twin Cities weekend: Pumpkins and Powerdrills, adult book fair" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.mntoollibrary.org/pumpkinsandpowerdrills" target="_blank">Pumpkins and Powerdrills</a> returns for its 10th year Saturday and Sunday, offering an outdoor opportunity to carve a jack-o&#x27;-lantern with a variety of provided power tools.

Meet Ink-ish, St. Paul's new dedicated magazine shop

The small space stocks at least 75 titles from small publishers and creatives across the world.

As interest in physical media <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="continues to grow" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/09/14/twin-cities-first-only-video-rental-store-saturn-video-opens" data-vars-content-id="632e6bde-a069-4a49-af26-8408797bc27d" data-vars-headline="Meet Ink-ish, St. Paul&#x27;s new dedicated magazine shop" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/09/14/twin-cities-first-only-video-rental-store-saturn-video-opens" target="_self">continues to grow</a>, the Twin Cities now has a shop exclusively dedicated to independent, hard-to-find magazines.The big picture: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ink-ish" data-vars-click-url="https://inkishmagshop.com/" data-vars-content-id="632e6bde-a069-4a49-af26-8408797bc27d" data-vars-headline="Meet Ink-ish, St. Paul&#x27;s new dedicated magazine shop" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://inkishmagshop.com/" target="_blank">Ink-ish</a>, which opened over the weekend next to Stepwise Coffee in St. Paul, offers a new destination for readers seeking publications beyond mainstream newsstands.

Twin Cities MEA weekend guide:  St. Paul Art Crawl, toddler rave

This year's art crawl includes over 30 venues, and guests of all ages are welcome.

Hundreds of local artists are opening up their galleries, shared spaces and artist lofts for the return of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Fall Saint Paul Art Crawl" data-vars-click-url="https://www.stpaulartcollective.org/spac-spring-art-crawl-2026" data-vars-content-id="548bdc0e-7639-4522-9b17-4a946eca7ed4" data-vars-headline="Twin Cities MEA weekend guide: St. Paul Art Crawl, toddler rave" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.stpaulartcollective.org/spac-spring-art-crawl-2026" target="_blank">Fall Saint Paul Art Crawl</a> — now consolidated into one jam-packed weekend.Zoom in: This year&#x27;s event includes over 30 venues across every St. Paul ward, and guests of all ages are welcome to participate.

Twin Cities weekend guide: Pumpkin boats, Oktoberfest, Posters for Parks

How fast can you kayak down a river — in a giant pumpkin?

How fast can you kayak down a river — in a giant pumpkin?Paddling the news: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Stillwater Harvest Fest" data-vars-click-url="https://www.harvestfeststillwater.com/" data-vars-content-id="578c583a-7c17-47b2-9254-da53f4f313cd" data-vars-headline="Twin Cities weekend guide: Pumpkin boats, Oktoberfest, Posters for Parks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.harvestfeststillwater.com/" target="_blank">Stillwater Harvest Fest</a>, a celebration of all things pumpkin, returns this weekend with some of the most unique fall activities you&#x27;ll find on this side of the St. Croix.

Our social calendars haven't kept up with warmer fall 

Fall has warmed 5.2 degrees in the Twin Cities, but pools, restaurants and concert series haven't kept up.

The party in the Twin Cities is lasting longer into fall, but many businesses and recreational organizations are still turning out the lights early. Why it matters: Winters are long here! We try to pack as much as we can into a few short months, but we might be leaving meat on the bone during what is typically some of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="nicest weather of the year" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/03/07/september-minnesota-best-month-survey-june-october" data-vars-content-id="834c5491-270e-4a11-9600-6a3f04150233" data-vars-headline="Our social calendars haven&#x27;t kept up with warmer fall " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/03/07/september-minnesota-best-month-survey-june-october" target="_self">nicest weather of the year</a>.

Bargain Bites: Burger Monday special at A-Side Public House

For what you might pay for a craft beer on tap, you can also get a burger and fries during this promotion.

Food and Drink

Kyle here. It&#x27;s not unheard of to pay $12 for a beer — so when I heard St. Paul&#x27;s A-Side Public House will also toss in a burger and fries for that price, I was there.Dig in: Axios reader Brittany flagged me to A-Side&#x27;s Burger Monday deal, which comes with any craft beer on the menu — normally an $8 value.<ul><li>This was no cheap lager; I drank a hazy IPA.</li></ul>

Restaurant Roundup: Cultured Crust moves into Good Times Pizza

Tony Cu, known for reviewing food in his car, is headed to a brick and mortar kitchen.

Fan favorite popup <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Sushi by Baaska" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/sushibybaaska/" data-vars-content-id="a152f3fe-1e95-4e73-ad3f-5cfef3b39543" data-vars-headline="Restaurant Roundup: Cultured Crust moves into Good Times Pizza" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/sushibybaaska/" target="_blank">Sushi by Baaska</a> is opening a standalone restaurant in Minneapolis&#x27; Mill District soon, the Minnesota Star Tribune <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reports" data-vars-click-url="https://www.startribune.com/sushi-by-baaska-reservations-menu-minneapolis-address/601901162" data-vars-content-id="a152f3fe-1e95-4e73-ad3f-5cfef3b39543" data-vars-headline="Restaurant Roundup: Cultured Crust moves into Good Times Pizza" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.startribune.com/sushi-by-baaska-reservations-menu-minneapolis-address/601901162" target="_blank">reports</a>.<ul><li>Expect an omakase counter, à la carte dining area and a private dining space inspired by Japanese basement bar dens.</li></ul>

Pimento on the Lake shuts down after three years

The lakeside restaurant quickly ran into financial struggles

Pimento on the Lake has ceased operations at the lakeside Bde Maka Ska pavilion after only three years of serving Jamaican fare. Why it matters: The closure marks a major flop for the Minneapolis Park &amp; Recreation Board, which spent $6.5 million rebuilding the pavilion following a fire only to see the operator it selected <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="quickly struggle" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/07/01/pimento-on-lake-troubles-liquor-license" data-vars-content-id="6adbb6e9-46a4-4a08-a337-5952890a2799" data-vars-headline="Pimento on the Lake shuts down after three years" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/07/01/pimento-on-lake-troubles-liquor-license" target="_self">quickly struggle</a> with declining sales, legal trouble and poor reviews.

Move over, pumpkin spice: Caramel apple lattes are fall's newest vibe

Twin Cities cafés are making space on their fall menus for a new flavor.

Kyle here. We may be in the heart of pumpkin spice season, but many Twin Cities cafés are making space on their fall menus for a new flavor: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="caramel apple" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/31/pumpkin-spice-apple-caramel-starbucks" data-vars-content-id="cb6feed9-7910-4507-8642-47fdeb833c1a" data-vars-headline="Move over, pumpkin spice: Caramel apple lattes are fall&#x27;s newest vibe" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/31/pumpkin-spice-apple-caramel-starbucks" target="_self">caramel apple</a>.The big picture: Caramel, apple and cinnamon are the three most-ordered fall flavors on DoorDash nationwide, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios&#x27; Carly Mallenbaum reports" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/31/pumpkin-spice-apple-caramel-starbucks" data-vars-content-id="cb6feed9-7910-4507-8642-47fdeb833c1a" data-vars-headline="Move over, pumpkin spice: Caramel apple lattes are fall&#x27;s newest vibe" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/31/pumpkin-spice-apple-caramel-starbucks" target="_self">Axios&#x27; Carly Mallenbaum reports</a>.<ul><li>And searches for &quot;caramel apple iced coffee&quot; are at an all-time high, according to Google Trends.</li></ul>

Midway Diner opens in St. Paul's United Village

The café is the first new establishment to open its doors from the current wave of construction in the long awaited United Village development.

Kyle here. Midway Diner opened its doors a week ago next door to St. Paul&#x27;s Allianz Field — so I had to stop by ASAP to sample the food.Why it matters: The café is the first establishment to open its doors from a new wave of construction in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the long awaited United Village development" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/02/28/allianz-field-united-village-construction" data-vars-content-id="357e92a8-15f0-4e5c-89be-f846a19de908" data-vars-headline="Midway Diner opens in St. Paul&#x27;s United Village" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/02/28/allianz-field-united-village-construction" target="_self">the long awaited United Village development</a>.

Axios Social Club brings mystery dinners to Minneapolis

Meet fellow locals over dinner at a restaurant we hand-picked.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios Social Club" data-vars-click-url="https://axiossocialclub.dnnr.io/" data-vars-content-id="d45ef50f-e8a5-4afd-879c-253dd52745ae" data-vars-headline="Axios Social Club brings mystery dinners to Minneapolis" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://axiossocialclub.dnnr.io/" target="_blank">Axios Social Club</a> is bringing readers together for dinner in Minneapolis&#x27; North Loop neighborhood on Tuesday, Oct. 6.Why it matters: Your city is full of interesting people you haven&#x27;t met yet. We&#x27;re making it easier to change that.

Control of Minnesota's Capitol up for grabs in midterm election

Voters will decide whether to return to divided government or single-party control.

The balance of power at Minnesota&#x27;s Capitol could again come down to hundreds — perhaps even dozens — of votes in a handful of competitive districts across the state.Why it matters: Along with the governor&#x27;s race, the outcome of hotly contested legislative contests will determine whether the state returns to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="divided government" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/11/06/minnesota-house-tie-trifecta-control-results" data-vars-content-id="6d11e6d2-d5cd-4405-8c7d-c8a524ba5f2e" data-vars-headline="Control of Minnesota&#x27;s Capitol up for grabs in midterm election" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/11/06/minnesota-house-tie-trifecta-control-results" target="_self">divided government</a> or <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="single-party control " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2022/11/09/minnesota-legislature-democrats-election-results" data-vars-content-id="6d11e6d2-d5cd-4405-8c7d-c8a524ba5f2e" data-vars-headline="Control of Minnesota&#x27;s Capitol up for grabs in midterm election" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2022/11/09/minnesota-legislature-democrats-election-results" target="_self">single-party control </a>next year. <ul><li>The future of everything from tax rates to gun laws hangs in the balance.</li></ul>

Meet the candidates vying for St. Paul's open Ramsey County Commission seat

Ramsey County commissioners often serve long tenures — making Rafael Ortega's retirement from the District 5 seat he's held since 1994 a rare opportunity.

Voters in parts of St. Paul will do something on Election Day that they haven&#x27;t done in 30 years: choose a new Ramsey County commissioner.Why it matters: County governments often fly under the radar, but in Minnesota they wield massive power over <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="social safety net programs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/11/19/property-tax-increases-minnesota-minneapolis-metro" data-vars-content-id="e4806b3f-ddb6-4b01-a0bc-e96608b421a0" data-vars-headline="Meet the candidates vying for St. Paul&#x27;s open Ramsey County Commission seat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/11/19/property-tax-increases-minnesota-minneapolis-metro" target="_self">social safety net programs</a> — everything from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="homelessness response" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/03/mayor-kaohly-her-homelessness-controversy-harassment-allegation" data-vars-content-id="e4806b3f-ddb6-4b01-a0bc-e96608b421a0" data-vars-headline="Meet the candidates vying for St. Paul&#x27;s open Ramsey County Commission seat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/03/mayor-kaohly-her-homelessness-controversy-harassment-allegation" target="_self">homelessness response</a> to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="food benefits" data-vars-click-url="https://www.minnpost.com/metro/2023/04/in-hennepin-county-has-a-new-application-process-made-it-harder-to-access-social-safety-net-programs/" data-vars-content-id="e4806b3f-ddb6-4b01-a0bc-e96608b421a0" data-vars-headline="Meet the candidates vying for St. Paul&#x27;s open Ramsey County Commission seat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.minnpost.com/metro/2023/04/in-hennepin-county-has-a-new-application-process-made-it-harder-to-access-social-safety-net-programs/" target="_blank">food benefits</a>. They also oversee a huge portfolio of infrastructure, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="transit" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/09/10/downtown-st-paul-transit-lines-streetcar-rapid-bus" data-vars-content-id="e4806b3f-ddb6-4b01-a0bc-e96608b421a0" data-vars-headline="Meet the candidates vying for St. Paul&#x27;s open Ramsey County Commission seat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/09/10/downtown-st-paul-transit-lines-streetcar-rapid-bus" target="_self">transit</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="public safety" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/01/30/minnesota-jails-ice-immigration-detainers" data-vars-content-id="e4806b3f-ddb6-4b01-a0bc-e96608b421a0" data-vars-headline="Meet the candidates vying for St. Paul&#x27;s open Ramsey County Commission seat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/01/30/minnesota-jails-ice-immigration-detainers" target="_self">public safety</a> and housing programs.

Where Minnesota's top governor candidates stand on DFL trifecta laws

Amy Klobuchar and Lisa Demuth say they're open to tweaks to some policies.

Tweaks to laws passed during the DFL trifecta could be on the table next year — regardless of who wins Minnesota&#x27;s governor&#x27;s race.Why it matters: Changes to the policies enacted in 2023 and 2024, when <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Democrats had full control" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2023/05/22/minnesota-legislaure-2023-session-what-passed-budget-taxes" data-vars-content-id="6754d765-b928-47de-b318-073c17a3942f" data-vars-headline="Where Minnesota&#x27;s top governor candidates stand on DFL trifecta laws" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2023/05/22/minnesota-legislaure-2023-session-what-passed-budget-taxes" target="_self">Democrats had full control</a> of state government, could directly impact benefits and bottom lines for families and businesses statewide.

Hennepin County prosecutor candidates debate Moriarty's legacy

Neither Cedrick Frazier nor Anders Folk want to be the next Moriarty. That doesn't mean she hasn't left her mark on the office.

Neither candidate in the Hennepin County Attorney&#x27;s race wants to be the next <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mary Moriarty" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/03/18/governor-walz-moriarty-trooper-murder-case-minneapolis" data-vars-content-id="16d2f911-99be-4da6-8d99-265d657dd8fd" data-vars-headline="Hennepin County prosecutor candidates debate Moriarty&#x27;s legacy" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/03/18/governor-walz-moriarty-trooper-murder-case-minneapolis" target="_self">Mary Moriarty</a> — but each would carry forward parts of her approach if elected, interviews with Axios reveal.The big picture: When she took office in 2023, Moriarty&#x27;s less punitive, data-driven approach seemed exactly what the county wanted as it re-examined its justice system post-George Floyd.

Top Minnesota governor candidates say they're open to arena subsidies

Minnesota's next governor could face big funding requests from the Timberwolves, Wild and Vikings.

Minnesota&#x27;s top gubernatorial candidates aren&#x27;t closing the door on offering public subsidies for pro sports stadium projects. Why it matters: The issue could become a major flashpoint in the next four years as the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Timberwolves/Lynx" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/09/22/new-wolves-ownership-still-wants-downtown-arena" data-vars-content-id="1bd4440d-3835-4310-a9ff-acdfbc1d4051" data-vars-headline="Top Minnesota governor candidates say they&#x27;re open to arena subsidies" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/09/22/new-wolves-ownership-still-wants-downtown-arena" target="_self">Timberwolves/Lynx</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Wild " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/10/02/minnesota-wild-arena-xcel-renovations-budget-state-funding" data-vars-content-id="1bd4440d-3835-4310-a9ff-acdfbc1d4051" data-vars-headline="Top Minnesota governor candidates say they&#x27;re open to arena subsidies" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/10/02/minnesota-wild-arena-xcel-renovations-budget-state-funding" target="_self">Wild </a>and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Vikings" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/09/18/us-bank-stadium-10-years-vikings-minneapois" data-vars-content-id="1bd4440d-3835-4310-a9ff-acdfbc1d4051" data-vars-headline="Top Minnesota governor candidates say they&#x27;re open to arena subsidies" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/09/18/us-bank-stadium-10-years-vikings-minneapois" target="_self">Vikings</a> are all seeking state funds to build new facilities or make improvements to existing ones.

U.S. Senate showdown: Minnesota rivals to face off in sole debate

Recent polls show a close contest between Democrat Peggy Flanagan and Republican Michele Tafoya.

Minnesota U.S. Senate candidates <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Peggy Flanagan" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/peggy-flanagan-democratic-primary-minnesota-senate-results" data-vars-content-id="fa3337fb-7b59-48cd-ab9c-088a6c62ea10" data-vars-headline="U.S. Senate showdown: Minnesota rivals to face off in sole debate" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/peggy-flanagan-democratic-primary-minnesota-senate-results" target="_self">Peggy Flanagan</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Michele Tafoya" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/michele-tafoya-republican-senate-primary-minnesota-results" data-vars-content-id="fa3337fb-7b59-48cd-ab9c-088a6c62ea10" data-vars-headline="U.S. Senate showdown: Minnesota rivals to face off in sole debate" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/michele-tafoya-republican-senate-primary-minnesota-results" target="_self">Michele Tafoya</a> face off in a debate hosted by MPR News Friday.Why it matters: It&#x27;s the only confirmed chance for voters to hear — and see — the rivals go head-to-head on the issues before the Nov. 3 midterm election.

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