In this episode we break down some of the biggest political stories shaping Minnesota in early 2026 — and why they matter beyond the Twin Cities. We unpack the welfare and child-care fraud investigations that have dominated headlines and federal probes, including massive allegations of fraud in multiple state programs and renewed scrutiny of how they were overseen. We’ll walk through the timeline and evolving political fallout around those cases, including partisan responses and ongoing Congressional interest. Next, we pivot to a controversial federal law enforcement incident in Minneapolis: the fatal shooting of a woman by a U.S. immigration agent during a federal operation, what local leaders are saying about it, and how it’s sparking debate over force, federal authority, and community relations. Grand Forks Herald We also touch on Governor Tim Walz’s revised FY 2026–27 budget proposal, how tight budget conditions are reshaping state priorities, and what that means for education, health care, and key services under pressure. Minnesota Budget Project Finally, we pull in perspectives from the Minnesota Legislature — including key figures pushing back on fraud oversight and broader state governance — giving listeners context on how local politics intersect with national issues. Minnesota House of Representatives Tune in for a comprehensive look at crime, accountability, budgeting, and political strategy in one of America’s most closely watched states https://www.house.mn.gov/members/profile/15631 https://www.cnn.com/2026/01/05/us/minnesota-child-care-fraud-investigation https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/01/06/timeline-of-fraud-investigations-that-shaped-walz-tenure https://www.grandforksherald.com/news/national/federal-agent-reportedly-involved-in-minneapolis-shooting-during-immigration-surge https://mnbudgetproject.org/blog/governor-walzs-revised-fy-2026-27-budget-proposal-makes-some-additional-changes-as-budget-conditions-tighten#:~:text=In%20March%2C%20Governor%20Tim%20Walz%20released%20a,(DEED)**%20*%20**Education%20(MDE)**%20*%20**Transportation%20(MnDOT)**