Feb 28 2025 3 mins
Minnesota's political landscape is experiencing turbulence as the 2025 legislative session approaches. The state House of Representatives is evenly split 67-67 between Democrats and Republicans, with a power-sharing agreement in jeopardy due to a recent court ruling disqualifying a Democratic lawmaker[1]. This has led to threats of boycotts and recalls, setting the stage for a contentious start to the session on January 14.
In economic news, despite a challenging 2024, Midwest manufacturers are expressing optimism for 2025. A survey conducted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development reveals that nearly half of the respondents expect an increase in orders, with many anticipating raising prices[2][7]. This positive outlook comes after a year of contraction in the manufacturing sector, signaling a potential economic rebound.
The Mayo Clinic in Rochester continues to shine on the global stage, ranking as the number one hospital in the world for the seventh consecutive year according to Newsweek[5]. This achievement underscores Minnesota's prominence in the healthcare sector and its contribution to medical excellence.
On the environmental front, Minnesota faced drought conditions in early 2025. As of February, about 31% of the state was experiencing abnormally dry conditions, with 55% in moderate drought and 7% in severe drought[3]. January 2025 was particularly dry, tying for the 9th driest January on record with a statewide average precipitation of just 0.22 inches.
In legislative developments, the Minnesota House is considering bills to provide tax breaks on construction materials for first-time homebuyers[5]. This initiative aims to make homeownership more accessible, though questions remain about its effectiveness in incentivizing the construction of starter homes.
Weather-wise, after a mild end to 2024, January 2025 saw colder than normal temperatures across Minnesota. The average temperature was 11.1 degrees, slightly below normal, with some southern areas experiencing highs of 58 degrees while northern regions saw lows of -42 degrees[3][8].
Looking ahead, the state is bracing for potential political gridlock as the legislative session unfolds. The manufacturing sector's optimism will be tested against economic realities, and environmental concerns, particularly regarding drought conditions, will remain in focus. Additionally, the implementation and impact of proposed housing legislation will be closely watched as Minnesota continues to address affordability issues.
In economic news, despite a challenging 2024, Midwest manufacturers are expressing optimism for 2025. A survey conducted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development reveals that nearly half of the respondents expect an increase in orders, with many anticipating raising prices[2][7]. This positive outlook comes after a year of contraction in the manufacturing sector, signaling a potential economic rebound.
The Mayo Clinic in Rochester continues to shine on the global stage, ranking as the number one hospital in the world for the seventh consecutive year according to Newsweek[5]. This achievement underscores Minnesota's prominence in the healthcare sector and its contribution to medical excellence.
On the environmental front, Minnesota faced drought conditions in early 2025. As of February, about 31% of the state was experiencing abnormally dry conditions, with 55% in moderate drought and 7% in severe drought[3]. January 2025 was particularly dry, tying for the 9th driest January on record with a statewide average precipitation of just 0.22 inches.
In legislative developments, the Minnesota House is considering bills to provide tax breaks on construction materials for first-time homebuyers[5]. This initiative aims to make homeownership more accessible, though questions remain about its effectiveness in incentivizing the construction of starter homes.
Weather-wise, after a mild end to 2024, January 2025 saw colder than normal temperatures across Minnesota. The average temperature was 11.1 degrees, slightly below normal, with some southern areas experiencing highs of 58 degrees while northern regions saw lows of -42 degrees[3][8].
Looking ahead, the state is bracing for potential political gridlock as the legislative session unfolds. The manufacturing sector's optimism will be tested against economic realities, and environmental concerns, particularly regarding drought conditions, will remain in focus. Additionally, the implementation and impact of proposed housing legislation will be closely watched as Minnesota continues to address affordability issues.