Dec 11 2024 3 mins 1
Minnesota is experiencing a mix of developments across various sectors. In recent news, the Minnesota Wild secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Vancouver Canucks, thanks to Kirill Kaprizov's overtime goal[1]. On a more serious note, Minneapolis police are investigating a shooting that left a man with life-threatening injuries on the 2600 block of Cedar Avenue South[1].
In government and politics, the Minnesota Senate remains under DFL control, while the House of Representatives is split 67-67 between the DFL and GOP, a rare occurrence that last happened in 1979[2]. Governor Tim Walz continues his role after an unsuccessful run for vice president, with his term expiring in 2026[2].
The business and economy sector is facing challenges, with manufacturers expressing low confidence in the state's economy and business climate. The 2024 State of Manufacturing survey reveals that only 24% of manufacturers expect an increase in revenue, while 41% anticipate a decrease in profitability[3]. This lack of confidence is expected to impact investments in technology and people, potentially hindering company growth.
In community news, a Twin Cities high school hockey team returned to the ice for the first time since losing a teammate to cancer, showcasing resilience and community spirit[1]. Additionally, the Union Gospel Mission is providing meal kits to 10,000 families, helping to alleviate the financial burden of Thanksgiving dinner, which remains nearly 20% higher than pre-pandemic levels[1].
Environmental and weather updates indicate that Minnesota can expect more air quality alerts than normal during the summer of 2024 due to high temperatures and wildfires. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) forecasts that while not as severe as 2023, the state will still experience significant air quality issues[4].
Looking Ahead:
- The 2025 legislative session is expected to be closely watched given the tied House of Representatives and the implications for policy decisions.
- The impact of Canadian tariffs on Minnesota's gas prices will be a developing story, with potential increases of 35 to 50 cents per gallon[1].
- The MPCA will continue to monitor air quality and provide updates on wildfire smoke and ozone levels throughout the summer[4].
- The state's manufacturing industry will be under scrutiny as it navigates the challenges highlighted in the 2024 State of Manufacturing survey[3].
In government and politics, the Minnesota Senate remains under DFL control, while the House of Representatives is split 67-67 between the DFL and GOP, a rare occurrence that last happened in 1979[2]. Governor Tim Walz continues his role after an unsuccessful run for vice president, with his term expiring in 2026[2].
The business and economy sector is facing challenges, with manufacturers expressing low confidence in the state's economy and business climate. The 2024 State of Manufacturing survey reveals that only 24% of manufacturers expect an increase in revenue, while 41% anticipate a decrease in profitability[3]. This lack of confidence is expected to impact investments in technology and people, potentially hindering company growth.
In community news, a Twin Cities high school hockey team returned to the ice for the first time since losing a teammate to cancer, showcasing resilience and community spirit[1]. Additionally, the Union Gospel Mission is providing meal kits to 10,000 families, helping to alleviate the financial burden of Thanksgiving dinner, which remains nearly 20% higher than pre-pandemic levels[1].
Environmental and weather updates indicate that Minnesota can expect more air quality alerts than normal during the summer of 2024 due to high temperatures and wildfires. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) forecasts that while not as severe as 2023, the state will still experience significant air quality issues[4].
Looking Ahead:
- The 2025 legislative session is expected to be closely watched given the tied House of Representatives and the implications for policy decisions.
- The impact of Canadian tariffs on Minnesota's gas prices will be a developing story, with potential increases of 35 to 50 cents per gallon[1].
- The MPCA will continue to monitor air quality and provide updates on wildfire smoke and ozone levels throughout the summer[4].
- The state's manufacturing industry will be under scrutiny as it navigates the challenges highlighted in the 2024 State of Manufacturing survey[3].
