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Get your Minnesota news from WCCO all in one place with new episodes weekdays at 3 pm CST. Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner cover the biggest stories, weather, sports, plus a bright spot to keep you connected to your community. Start your commute with 4 Things to Know: A Daily News Podcast from WCCO. Follow and listen wherever you get your podcasts. For more news coverage, check out WCCO.com.
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Monday, March 30 — At MSP Airport, TSA workers could finally see paychecks after weeks without pay during the government shutdown, but questions remain about how long relief will last.
A federal lawsuit claims negligence at a state-run mental hospital led to a patient’s death, alleging violent video games triggered a psychotic episode that ended in murder.
The Trump Administration sues the state of Minnesota, alleging the state's policy allowing transgender athletes to compete in girls' sports violates federal law.
Two adults are dead and a teenage girl is fighting for her life after a head-on crash in Park Rapids. Authorities say alcohol may have played a role as the investigation continues.
Plus, activists escalate their fight to shut down a Minneapolis incinerator, now planning a hunger strike to push for a faster closure timeline.
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Friday, March 27 — St. Paul is bracing for massive crowds as more than 100,000 people are expected to attend Saturday’s “No Kings” rally at the State Capitol. Transit systems are ramping up service, and hundreds of officers from multiple agencies are preparing for what could rival, or exceed, the size of a Vikings game-day crowd.At the White House, Vice President JD Vance convenes the first meeting of a new federal task force aimed at cracking down on fraud, with Minnesota’s recent cases taking center stage. The move comes as the federal government withholds millions in Medicaid funding tied to alleged misuse.Also, Delta Air Lines is facing growing scrutiny after activists raise concerns about the possible use of commercial flights in immigration enforcement operations. The airline says it does not book travel for the federal government.Plus, the Gopher Women’s Basketball team heads into a high-stakes Sweet 16 matchup against UCLA, their first appearance at this stage in over two decades.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Thursday, March 26 — St. Paul is preparing for what could be its largest protest in years, with organizers expecting more than 100,000 people at a “No Kings” rally this weekend. City leaders are planning major road closures and a coordinated safety response as crowds gather and march to the Capitol.Today at the State Capitol, lawmakers take aim at social media companies, talking through a bill that would require age verification, parental consent for younger users, and limits on so-called addictive features. We hear from one Minnesota student on how he says social media has harmed him and other peers. Also, two Minnesota travelers are back home after being stranded in Dubai during escalating conflict in the Middle East, sharing what it took to finally make it back safely.Plus, a public visitation for Jessie Piece and her three kids, all tragically killed in a house fire, will happen this weekend. We'll tell you how you can honor their memories.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Wednesday, March 25 — For the first time, we hear from the husband of a Minnesota Army Reservist killed in an Iranian drone strike overseas. He shares the moment he learned of the tragedy, and how he’s remembering his wife.At the Minnesota Capitol, senators discuss a rule change that would allow babies on the Senate floor, including breastfeeding, following a recent controversy that sparked national attention.Lawmakers and grocery workers are also sounding the alarm on so-called “surveillance pricing,” as some retailers move to electronic price tags that can change in real time. Critics warn it could drive up costs and impact jobs, but not everyone at the Capitol agrees.Plus, the Minnesota Vikings make a major bid to bring one of the NFL’s biggest events to Minneapolis, with hopes of a major economic boost.Join Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Tuesday, March 24 — Minnesota is suing the Trump administration, accusing federal agencies of withholding key evidence in three Minneapolis shootings. State leaders say the lack of transparency has blocked their ability to investigate and pursue justice.
At the state capitol, a long-stalled effort to crack down on fraud is gaining new momentum. Lawmakers are moving forward with a plan to create an independent watchdog agency, but not without ongoing concerns from both sides of the aisle.
Minnesota is one of several states that honor Cesar Chavez Day next Tuesday – on his birthday.But in wake of new allegations, lawmakers are fast tracking an effort to undo that. We have an update from the Capitol.
And wrongful charge tied to controversial “geofence warrants” is adding fuel to a growing legal debate, as the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to take up the issue next month.
And in our Bright Spot, NASA is setting its sights on the moon, unveiling an ambitious plan to build a permanent base and reestablish a sustained human presence in space.
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Monday, March 23 — A government funding stand-off is creating major disruptions at airports nationwide, with TSA agents working without pay and long security lines stretching for hours. Now, a new move to deploy ICE agents at some airports is raising fresh concerns among travelers.
The Minnesota hockey community is mourning the loss of a beloved writer and mother, Jessi Pierce, and her three children after a devastating house fire. Tributes are pouring in as investigators continue searching for answers.
A young boy in the Annunciation school shooting is being recognized for his extraordinary bravery. Now the boy is receiving a national “Young Hero” award.
And the Gopher women’s basketball team is dancing into the Sweet 16 for the first time in nearly two decades after a thrilling last-second victory.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Friday, March 20 — A man accused of killing a mother and her 5-year-old son appeared in an Anoka County courtroom, where a judge set bail at $5 million and called his record one of the most dangerous she’s seen in decades. Prosecutors say the case involves a history of domestic violence, and family members believe the tragedy could have been prevented.
The son of a former Minnesota lawmaker is now facing a total of more than six decades behind bars. Derrick Thompson received additional federal prison time tied to fentanyl and firearm charges, on top of his state sentence for a 2023 crash that killed five young women.
A man accused of attacking Congresswoman Ilhan Omar at a town hall is now facing both federal and state charges. Investigators say he sprayed her with a liquid and had previously made violent threats.And for the first time in nearly a decade, the University of Minnesota women’s basketball team is back in the NCAA tournament, with home court advantage as they tip off their March Madness run.
Plus, new legislation inspired by a chilling police impersonation case, a push to allow babies on the Minnesota Senate floor, a heated debate over a national voting bill, and why ranch dressing has officially claimed the top spot as America’s favorite condiment.
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Thursday, March 19 — A 5-year-old boy whose arrest sparked national outrage is now facing deportation. A judge has denied asylum for Liam Ramos and his father, months after that viral image of him in a bunny hat and Spider-Man backpack drew global attention. The family is appealing, as their attorney argues the emotional toll has been severe.A Minnesota family prepares to say goodbye to one of the first Americans killed in Operation Epic Fury. Master Sergeant Nicole Amor was among those killed in a drone attack overseas, and loved ones are now honoring her life and service.At the State Capitol, lawmakers are pushing for tougher penalties on people impersonating police officers. The proposal follows last summer’s deadly shooting involving a man posing as law enforcement and could soon move through committee.And March Madness tips off, with fans across the country filling out brackets and watching the first-round games. We check in at a bar in Minneapolis' North Loop where fans are catching the action.Plus, a deadly shooting in St. Paul, concerns over fast-tracked asylum cases for Somali immigrants, a scam alert targeting drivers, and a major pay raise for WNBA players.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Wednesday, March 18 — A quiet North Metro community is reeling after a woman and young boy were shot and killed inside a Lexington home early this morning. Police say a massive, multi-agency manhunt led to the suspect’s arrest, as neighbors struggle to process the violence in their tight-knit town.
For the second straight day, school threats are disrupting districts across the metro. South St. Paul Public Schools shifted to e-learning after what police call a credible threat, leading to the arrest of a 29-year-old man. This follows similar closures Tuesday tied to threats investigators now say were not credible.
At the Capitol, lawmakers are digging into a growing financial crisis at Hennepin Healthcare. Officials warn of tens of millions in projected losses this year, and long-term deficits driven by insurance changes. Now urgent questions are being raised about how to sustain one of the state’s top trauma centers.
And a federal judge is allowing Temporary Protected Status for Somali immigrants to continue in the short term. But attorneys warn of a troubling surge in fast-tracked asylum cases they say could jeopardize due process.
Also, a lighthearted moment as Anthony Edwards hits the basketball court with former President Barack Obama.
Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Tuesday, March 17 — Schools across the south metro are closed after multiple threatening voicemails overnight forced leaders in Rosemount, Apple Valley, and Eagan’s District 196 to cancel classes out of an abundance of caution. Police are now working to trace the source of the threats, calling the investigation ongoing as more than 30 school buildings remain shut down for the day.
A new state audit is raising concerns about fraud oversight in a program designed to help children with autism. Investigators say some complaints, including allegations of kickbacks, were closed without review, and are now urging Minnesota to update its definition of fraud as lawmakers push a broader package aimed at accountability and prevention.
At the Capitol, a new proposal could limit how license plate data is used by law enforcement and private companies, as privacy concerns grow over tracking technology. Supporters say stronger protections are needed, while others argue the tools are critical for public safety.
And funeral arrangements are now set for a Minnesota soldier killed in a drone attack overseas, as family, friends, and the community prepare to honor her life later this week.
Plus, a bill targeting so-called “ghost guns” is advancing, TSA workers face staffing shortages amid a government shutdown, and a group of Minnesota students stranded in California is asking for help getting home.Also, volunteers step up to help neighbors dig out after the weekend snowstorm, and Metro Transit is offering free rides to help you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day safely.
Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Monday, March 16 — Southern Minnesota is digging out after a powerful late-season snowstorm that shut down part of Interstate 35 for more than 20 hours near Albert Lea. State Patrol officials say troopers responded to 464 crashes statewide over the weekend, including 40 that caused injuries. More than 650 vehicles spun off the road and nearly 20 semis jackknifed as blowing and drifting snow made travel dangerous.Cleanup is still underway across the Twin Cities, where both Minneapolis and St. Paul remain in snow emergencies. Dozens of plows are working to clear residential streets, but many drivers woke up to find their cars missing after violating emergency parking rules. As of Monday morning, hundreds of vehicles had already been towed between the two cities, with impound fees topping $200.Meanwhile at MSP Airport, operations are slowly returning to normal after the storm caused hundreds of flight cancellations, stranding travelers during the busy spring break travel period. Airport officials say more than 3.3 million passengers are expected to pass through the airport between now and early April.Plus, dozens of rescued dogs from an out-of-state puppy mill are now safe in the Twin Cities and beginning their recovery at the Animal Humane Society.And Next Weather Meteorologist Lisa Meadows joins us to break down the storm and what comes next in the forecast.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Friday, March 13 — Powerful winds knocked out power for more than 20,000 Xcel Energy customers across the Twin Cities overnight, and another round of winter weather is already on the way. Meteorologists say a new snowstorm is expected this weekend, and state leaders are preparing for possible impacts across Minnesota.
At the State Capitol, lawmakers heard emotional testimony during a hearing on several gun safety proposals, including a potential assault weapons ban and the creation of an office of gun violence prevention. One father spoke about losing his daughter in the Annunciation school shooting, urging lawmakers to act.
Meanwhile, a vigil in Minneapolis will honor the 180 people killed on the first day of the war with Iran, many of them children after an elementary school bombing. The conflict is also pushing gas prices higher here at home, with Minnesota prices rising 18 cents in the past week.
Despite the threat of snow, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are gearing up across the Twin Cities. Officials say extra staff will be on hand to help keep large crowds safe during parades and events this weekend.
And in our Bright Spot: why a Minnesota ER doctor is helping bring realism to the hit HBO Max medical drama “The Pitt.”
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Thursday, March 12 — A federal judge heard arguments today in Minnesota’s lawsuit against the federal government over $243 million in withheld Medicaid payments. State leaders say they’ve already taken corrective action after acknowledging fraud in the program but claim federal officials haven’t made clear what additional steps are needed to restore the funding. The judge says a decision will come as soon as possible.At the State Capitol, supporters of a proposed Minnesota Equal Rights Amendment rallied in the rotunda, urging lawmakers to advance the measure that would add protections against discrimination to the state constitution. The proposal would also protect decisions about pregnancy, including abortion rights. It cleared a Senate committee last month, but Republicans have raised concerns about the language as it heads toward the next step in the legislative process.A Hastings woman is pushing for new safety rules after an electric bike crash left her with lasting injuries. She’s now working with lawmakers on a proposal that would ban electric bikes from Minnesota sidewalks.Plus, the Minnesota BCA is investigating after Rochester police shot and killed a man during a mental health crisis call.And in sports, Kyler Murray is visiting the Vikings today. Is he the team's next quarterback?Join Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Wednesday, March 11 — Minnesota officials have reached a legal settlement with Lyft after the rideshare company repeatedly denied rides to a blind college student traveling with her service dog. The state says the cancellations violated the Minnesota Human Rights Act. The agreement includes a monetary settlement and new in-app warnings for drivers about service animal protections.
At the State Capitol, leaders shared an update on Minnesota’s Veteran Suicide Prevention Plan. Officials say the state continues to lose about 100 veterans to suicide each year, and a new statewide strategy aims to strengthen prevention, crisis response, and support services for veterans and their families over the next four years.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has vetoed a city council ordinance that would have doubled the eviction notice period for renters from 30 to 60 days following Operation Metro Surge. Instead, the mayor announced a new $1 million investment in emergency rental assistance to help residents avoid eviction.
Plus, TSA workers are once again feeling the brunt of the government shutdown. We chat with them at MSP International Airport.Join Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Tuesday, March 10 — Governor Tim Walz is proposing a major overhaul of Minnesota’s Department of Human Services as the state faces a federal deadline to address fraud in public programs. The plan would shift eligibility decisions from counties to the state and eliminate managed care organizations as leaders try to strengthen oversight and protect Medicaid funding.
At the State Capitol, lawmakers and community members are holding a “People’s Hearing on Immigration Enforcement” following Operation Metro Surge. Testimony is expected from residents, advocates, and attorneys documenting the impact of recent immigration enforcement actions across Minnesota communities.
Two southern Minnesota police officers are being recognized for rescuing a kidnapped 7-year-old earlier this year after spotting the suspect’s vehicle more than 100 miles away. Their actions helped safely recover the child just hours after an Amber Alert was issued.
Plus, a job fair in St. Paul is helping people with criminal records connect with employers offering second-chance opportunities and career support.
Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Monday, March 9 — Minnesota's long running fraud problem is back in the spotlight at the State Capitol. The governor's new Director of Program Integrity testified before lawmakers about a report tracing the issue back decades and outlining a plan to stop fraud before it happens.
Lawmakers are also considering new proposals to regulate artificial intelligence. Senator Erin Maye Quade introduced several bills aimed at protecting kids, consumers, and patients, including restrictions on chatbots for minors and a bad on AI-driven price manipulation.
Meanwhile, Minnesota is honoring Master Sergeant Nicole Amor of White Bear Lake, who returned to the U.S. after being killed in a drone strike in Kuwait. Flags remain at half-staff as her community remembers her service.
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Friday, March 6 - WCCO's Beret Leone fills in for Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner today as they enjoy a much needed break.
Minnesota may have had a role to play in the major shakeup at the Department of Homeland Security. Kristi Noem is out, and Senator Amy Klobuchar says questions raised during a recent Senate hearing helped bring big problems to light.
The U.S.-Israeli war with Iran enters its seventh day, and President Trump says there will be no deal with Iran "except unconditional surrender". The husband of Nicole Amor, who was killed in Kuwait, has started a GoFundMe to raise money for a memorial green house in honor of his wife and her love of gardening.
St. Paul city leaders say they've got a plan to tackle the pothole problem. The city has experienced a high number of potholes due to the rampant freeze-thaw cycle this winter, and now leaders are planning to reopen the city's asphalt plant.
The clocks spring forward this Sunday as Daylight Saving time begins. The shift will move an hour of daylight from the morning to evening, giving us more light on our commute home but darker mornings.
Join Beret Leone in today's episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Thursday, March 5 - WCCO's Beret Leone fills in for Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner today as they enjoy a much needed break.
One man is dead and four others, including a child, are hurt, after a crash that involved a sheriff's deputy. New details from the Ramsey County Sheriffs department says a deputy was responding to assist State Patrol in a stolen car chase. The deputy's squad crashed into an S-U-V unrelated to the chase.
Valleyfair owner Six Flags Entertainment announced that it will sell seven of its parks, including Valleyfair, to Kansas City-based EPR Properties. The parks reportedly will continue to run their regular schedule and season passes will be honored through the end of this year.
Capitol lawmakers are pushing for insurance coverage for infertility treatments. The Senate Commerce committee held a hearing on the bipartisan measure that would require health plans to cover infertility treatments and standard fertility preservation services. With one in six families struggling with their fertility, the bill could potentially help thousands of people.
The Capitol had several other important agenda items today, including a bill to make guns illegal at the state capitol, even if you have a permit, as well as a bill to prevent private equity entities from buying homes.
And in today's bright spot, it's the 9th annual Puppy Day at the Capitol, hosted by the Animal Humane Society. Dog eligible for adoption or foster are getting lots of attention as they explore the capitol grounds. The nonprofit also took the opportunity to outline their 2026 legislative priorities, including the Dog and Cat Data Transparency Bill and a bill to establish an Office of Animal Protection.
Join Beret Leone for today's episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Wednesday, March 4 — A Minnesota family is mourning the loss of Sergeant First Class Nicole Amor of White Bear Lake, killed in a drone attack in Kuwait just days before she was set to return home. We look back at her two decades of service in the Army Reserve and what we’re learning about the six soldiers killed.In St. Paul, one person is dead and another seriously hurt after a crash involving a Ramsey County Sheriff’s squad car responding to a stolen vehicle call. What investigators say happened at 12th and Robert Streets.At a contentious hearing in Washington, Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison face tough questions from lawmakers over what they knew about alleged fraud in Minnesota, and when.Plus, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is pressed again about her comments following the January shooting deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis.We’re also tracking the cost of Operation Metro Surge on Minneapolis police, a University of Minnesota Law School delegation presenting before the United Nations Human Rights Council, a major workforce summit, Google’s plans for a new data center near Duluth, Target’s $2 billion store overhaul, the first tee time of the Twin Cities golf season, a record-setting night for Kirill Kaprizov and the Wild, a big win for the Wolves, and why the world’s best cheeses are on display in Wisconsin.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Tuesday, March 3 — A federal judge in St. Paul says he’s not ruling out jail time for Minnesota’s U.S. Attorney over missing detainee property tied to Operation Metro Surge. We break down the tense courtroom exchange and what we’re learning about the 28 disputed cases.At the Capitol, Senator Amy Klobuchar presses DHS Secretary Kristi Noem during a heated hearing on immigration enforcement, including sharp questions about the killing of Alex Pretti and how many federal agents remain in Minnesota.Plus, a massive $600 million proposal to renovate Grand Casino Arena heads to the legislature. We explain how the City of St. Paul and the Minnesota Wild plan to fund the overhaul, and why leaders say it’s critical to keeping downtown competitive.
And lawmakers debate the future of self-driving cars as Waymo tests vehicles in Minneapolis. Why some legislators say more than 100,000 Minnesota driving jobs could be impacted.We’re also following a new child care oversight bill after the death of 11-month-old Harvey Muklebust, an investigation into alleged misconduct by federal agents, new charges tied to threats against House Speaker Lisa Demuth, expanding speed cameras in Minneapolis, and the latest on the Wild, Wolves, Twins, and the start of the boys state hockey tournament.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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