4 Things To Know from WCCO

Friday, January 23rd — Hundreds of Twin Cities businesses closed for the day as part of a statewide protest against ICE operations in Minnesota. Activists are calling it a “Day of Truth and Freedom,” urging people to skip work, school, and shopping while demanding state leaders limit federal immigration enforcement. We break down what business owners are saying, where today’s march and rally are happening, and what comes next.Then, hundreds of people gather at Temple Israel in Minneapolis for a multi-faith prayer service focused on unity, dignity, and support for immigrant communities. We hear from faith leaders across traditions, including Rabbi Marcia Zimmerman and Bishop Mariann Budde, and explain why more than 700 clergy members from around the country are now in Minnesota.We also have new details after ICE detained a U.S. citizen at gunpoint while searching for two men, including confirmation from the Minnesota Department of Corrections that one of those men has actually been in prison the entire time, raising new questions about how the operation unfolded.Plus, as the bitter cold grips the state, doctors warn frostbite can happen in just minutes. We explain the warning signs you should never ignore and how emergency rooms are already seeing the impact of this winter’s repeated cold snaps.More to know: Federal charges tied to a church protest in St. Paul, a joint ICE and Border Patrol press conference outlining recent arrests, updates in the Amber Alert case involving a 7-year-old girl, healthcare workers picketing amid a statewide boycott, major winter sports events moving to Minnesota, and a bright spot — Lego’s new Golden Retriever puppy set.Join Maria Lisignoli for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thursday, January 22nd — Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar takes her first steps toward a run for Minnesota governor, according to a source close to the senator. We break down what today’s move signals for the 2026 race and what comes next. Plus, ICE responds after claims that a 5-year-old boy was taken during an arrest in Columbia Heights. School leaders say the child was used as bait, while Homeland Security insists the boy was abandoned by his father. We walk through what both sides are saying and why educators say this is part of a growing pattern impacting students. We also cover an Amber Alert that woke up Minnesotans overnight and ended with a child found safe and a suspect in custody after a search spanning from Sherburne County to southern Minnesota. Plus, why authorities are urging parents to closely monitor kids’ social media use. And dangerously cold temperatures are prompting school closures and delayed starts across the metro. We explain how districts make those calls, when families can expect decisions, and why extreme cold is easier to plan for than snow. Then, federal officials say more than 3,300 arrests have been made under Operation Metro Surge as protests continue across Minnesota. Vice President J.D. Vance visits the Twin Cities to defend the operation amid a Justice Department investigation, arrests following a protest at a St. Paul church, and clashes near the University of Minnesota. St. Paul Public Schools rolls out a temporary virtual learning option for families concerned about safety, while hundreds of businesses plan to close for Minnesota’s Day of Truth and Freedom. Plus: the Vikings keep defensive coordinator Brian Flores, Timberwolves look to snap a losing streak, the Wild host Detroit, the 2026 Oscar nominations are out, and a bright spot to close the day. Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wednesday, January 21st — Federal immigration enforcement is drawing controversy in Minnesota, with officials claiming record-high ICE arrests in the state even as the most recent publicly available data shows a much smaller share of people with criminal convictions. We break down what the numbers actually show, why the lack of transparent data matters, and how those figures compare nationally. Plus, two men who were detained, including one man who was shot by ICE agents in North Minneapolis last week appeared in federal court today, where new testimony challenged the federal account of the incident and both were granted conditional release despite ICE detainers remaining in place. We also cover the Justice Department’s move to subpoena the offices of Governor Tim Walz, Attorney General Keith Ellison, and the mayors of Minneapolis and Saint Paul for communications about immigration enforcement. Plus, more on how local leaders are responding to Operation Metro Surge as they defend their cities and push back against what they call an overreach. Longtime sports reporter Michele Tafoya announces her run for U.S. Senate, aiming to break Minnesota’s Republican drought in statewide races, and organizers plan a statewide Day of Truth and Freedom this Friday with calls for protests and work stoppages over ICE operations. Plus: an FBI six-figure reward announced in connection with break-ins of federal vehicles during protests, Vice President J.D. Vance is expected to visit Minnesota, a brutal cold snap cancels part of the Lake Nokomis pond hockey championships, Vikings’ Jordan Addison has a trespassing charge dismissed, and Minnesota’s own Greta Myers heads to the Winter Olympics. We even close with a feel-good note about the world’s tallest living female dog. Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tuesday, January 20th — The Justice Department on Tuesday served subpoenas to multiple Democratic officials in Minnesota, including the offices of Gov. Tim Walz, Attorney General Keith Ellison, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her in connection with a probe into an alleged conspiracy to impede federal immigration officers. We hear the reasoning and share Frey's response. Then, leaders, business owners, and community groups across Minnesota are calling for a statewide economic blackout to protest Operation Metro Surge, urging people to stay home, stay offline, and stop spending for the day. Today, we break down the planned “Day of Truth and Freedom,” which has dozens of restaurants and businesses announcing closures, and hear from local law enforcement leaders raising concerns about civil rights and federal oversight. We also look at changes at the University of Minnesota as students return to class amid heightened immigration enforcement, along with temporary towing policy adjustments in St. Paul and Minneapolis tied to ICE detentions. Plus, only WCCO’s Jonah Kaplan speaks with Feeding Our Future founder Aimee Bock from jail following her conviction in the largest pandemic fraud case in U.S. history. Jonah joins the show to discuss how the interview came together, how Bock defended herself, and what surprised him most. Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Monday, January 19th — New federal data shows thousands of arrests tied to expanded ICE operations in the Minneapolis area, as a legal showdown between Minnesota and the federal government reaches a critical deadline. Today, we break down new numbers from the Department of Homeland Security on “Operation Metro Surge,” the state’s lawsuit seeking to halt ICE activity, and why a federal judge says the case can’t wait, even on a holiday. We also examine mounting tension as the Pentagon confirms active-duty troops are on standby and the President considers invoking the Insurrection Act. As protests continue following the fatal shooting of Renee Good, Minneapolis marks Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a deeply symbolic gathering in Powderhorn Park, just blocks from where Good was killed. Community leaders reflect on fear, resilience, and the ongoing struggle for civil rights. Plus, the war of words escalates between state and federal leaders over protest zones and First Amendment rights, new polling shows shifting public opinion on immigration enforcement, and ICE confirms the death of a man in federal custody. We also cover a Justice Department investigation into an anti-ICE protest inside a St. Paul church, free admission to Minnesota state parks for the holiday, State Fair price news, sports headlines, and a bright spot as Minnesota dance teams shine on the national stage. Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday, January 16th — New details emerge in the fatal shooting of Renee Good and tensions continue in Minneapolis as protests and federal law enforcement activity persist. Today, we break down newly released incident reports and 911 transcripts showing that Renee Good was shot multiple times by an ICE agent during a January 7 enforcement operation, the timeline of emergency response, and how federal and local officials are framing the shooting. Protests are ongoing outside the Whipple Federal Building near Fort Snelling, where demonstrators remain vocal over the heavy ICE presence. It's a continuation of unrest that has drawn national attention and comments from the White House. Plus, federal prosecutors have charged a suspect in connection with the vandalism and theft from an FBI vehicle during recent protests, and a Minneapolis family says agents mistakenly raided their home in the search for a stolen federal firearm. We also cover how the Minnesota BCA has joined the investigation into another ICE-involved shooting this week, and political fallout from both sides as state and federal leaders spar over enforcement tactics and public safety. Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thursday, January 15th — Tensions escalate in Minneapolis as a second ICE-involved shooting happens just one week after a woman was killed by a federal agent. We break down what authorities say led to Wednesday night’s shooting in North Minneapolis, the clashes between protesters and police, and the growing political fallout. This includes President Trump threatening to invoke the Insurrection Act and Governor Tim Walz calling the situation “not sustainable.” Plus, the Minnesota BCA confirms it’s launching an independent investigation into the use of force, the ACLU of Minnesota files a new class-action lawsuit accusing federal agents of unconstitutional stops and arrests, and DFL lawmakers unveil proposed legislation aimed at holding federal officers accountable for civil rights violations. We also cover growing concern over reports of ICE activity in hospitals, calls for an eviction moratorium as families fear leaving their homes, community groups stepping up with donations and support, and a rare primetime address from Governor Walz, urging peaceful protest and accountability. Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wednesday, January 14th — Today marks one week since Renee Nicole Good was shot and killed in her SUV by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent in Minneapolis, and tensions are still high as federal officials double down on their response. Officials say the agent suffered internal bleeding after the encounter and defend his actions as self-defense, even as protests continue across Minnesota and nationwide. We break down what unfolded in federal court today, where a judge denied Minnesota’s request for an immediate restraining order to halt ICE operations but left the door open to further legal challenges as both sides prepare for more hearings later this week. Plus, Renee Good’s family has taken the next step by hiring the same civil rights law firm that represented George Floyd’s relatives as they consider a possible lawsuit against federal authorities, a move that could shape the legal fight over the shooting. We also dig into the Justice Department’s announcement that it does not currently plan to open a criminal civil rights investigation into Good’s death, a decision that has led to a wave of resignations from federal prosecutors in Minnesota and Washington amid growing criticism of how the case is being handled. Also today, transit workers speak out after ICE activity interfered with Metro Transit operations, and new details emerge about national political pressure and funding battles linked to Minnesota’s response. Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tuesday, January 13th — A major shakeup in Minnesota’s federal justice system as U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson resigns after leading high-profile fraud investigations, with new reporting revealing multiple prosecutors are also leaving the Justice Department amid controversy over a halted civil rights probe. We're continuing to investigate this. We break down what Thompson’s departure means and why state leaders are calling it a major loss. Meanwhile, the Trump Administration moves to dramatically expand its federal presence in Minnesota, sending roughly 1,000 additional immigration officers as fallout continues from a deadly ICE-involved shooting. We examine the growing backlash, including a new lawsuit from state and city leaders seeking to halt ICE activity, and plans for a statewide day of action. Plus, DHS ends Temporary Protected Status for Somali nationals, raising fears of family separation across Minnesota. Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison is arrested in Florida, marking his third offseason legal issue in four years. We hear from head coach Kevin O'Connell. Join Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Monday, January 12th — Protests continue to grow across Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Renee Good by an ICE agent, as federal officials announce hundreds more agents are heading to the Twin Cities as part of Operation Metro Surge. We break down what unfolded at the Whipple Federal Building, where new security measures went up and demonstrators renewed calls for ICE to leave Minnesota. Plus, Democratic Representatives Ilhan Omar, Angie Craig, and Kelly Morrison say they were denied entry during an attempted oversight visit at the federal building, while DHS disputes their account. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Police Chief Brian O’Hara warn the ongoing federal crackdown could escalate into further violence, criticizing ICE’s tactics and rhetoric. We also dig into the legal questions surrounding the shooting with Hamline Law Professor David Schultz, including what authority ICE agents have, whether the agent could face charges, and what comes next in the investigation. Also today: Minneapolis Public Schools return to class with flexible options, students stage walkouts in protest, a community member turns a memorial into a place of care, federal funding for SNAP assistance is put on hold amid fraud concerns, a major airline merger involving Sun Country, Target’s expansion plans, and a look at sports and Minnesota’s growing presence in the upcoming Winter Olympics. Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday, January 9th — We’re continuing to follow the fallout from the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Renee Good by an ICE agent in south Minneapolis. What we know about Good’s life, her family, and the growing calls for accountability as city leaders push for a broader, independent investigation. We take you to the scene of the shooting as the city removes protest barricades, while demonstrations and memorials continue. Schools across the metro close amid fear and trauma following ICE activity near Minneapolis schools, including tense encounters at Roosevelt High School. We break down what Homeland Security says happened, what parents and educators witnessed, and why Governor Tim Walz and Education Minnesota are demanding ICE stay away from schools. Plus, information on ICE arrests at a Target in Richfield and in Rochester, guidance from advocates on safely documenting enforcement actions, and what it’s like to be detained after a protest. We also look beyond Minnesota to a separate federal shooting in Portland, Oregon, as scrutiny of ICE operations intensifies nationwide. Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thursday, January 8th — We’re following breaking developments after a fatal shooting involving an ICE agent in South Minneapolis. The woman killed has been identified as 37-year-old Renee Good, a U.S. citizen and mother who recently moved to Minnesota. A memorial continues to grow at the scene as a GoFundMe for her family approaches $600,000. We break down what’s known about the ICE agent involved, including his role on a special tactical unit and a prior incident in Bloomington, as ICE confirms its “largest operation ever” will continue in the Twin Cities. Minneapolis Public Schools close out of an abundance of caution as protests escalate, arrests are made, and chemical irritants are deployed near federal buildings. Governor Tim Walz sharply criticizes the federal takeover of the investigation, warning Minnesotans against violence, while Vice President JD Vance defends the agent’s actions. We also hear from faith leaders, students, and community members as conflicting narratives emerge and protests spread nationwide. Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wednesday, January 7th — A deadly confrontation between federal immigration agents and a Minneapolis driver is sparking outrage, grief, and sharply conflicting accounts. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey delivers an expletive-laden rebuke of ICE after a 37-year-old woman is shot and killed by an ICE agent, while federal officials claim the woman used her vehicle as a weapon, a claim city leaders and witnesses strongly dispute.We break down what witnesses say happened near East 34th Street and Portland Avenue, why Police Chief Brian O’Hara warned just a day earlier that increased federal presence could lead to tragedy, and what video from the scene appears to show.Plus, investigations are now underway by the FBI and the Minnesota BCA, County Attorney Mary Moriarty pushes for a local review, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defends the agent’s actions, and civil rights leaders accuse DHS of lying. We also share details about a vigil planned tonight at the scene of the shooting.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tuesday, January 6th — Federal immigration enforcement ramps up across the Twin Cities as Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem joins agents on arrests in St. Paul and Bloomington, sparking protests, emotional witness accounts, and questions about who is being targeted and why. We also look at a Minnesota hotel being removed from Hilton’s system after cancelling reservations for federal agents, Governor Tim Walz’s blunt response to criticism over ending his reelection campaign amid the state’s fraud crisis, and last-ditch contract talks as Anoka-Hennepin teachers prepare for a possible strike that could impact more than 40,000 students. Plus: Edina considers a local gun ordinance, major school closures and program cuts in Robbinsdale, the CDC’s controversial update to childhood vaccine recommendations, events marking five years since January 6th, and a bright spot as a Minneapolis woman is honored nationally for saving a toddler’s life.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Monday, January 5th — Breaking political news out of the State Capitol as Governor Tim Walz announces he is dropping out of the 2026 race for governor, saying Minnesota needs his full attention amid mounting scrutiny over fraud in state programs. We break down what led to the surprise decision, what comes next in the governor’s race, and which Democrats could step in.Plus, sources tell CBS News the Trump administration has ordered a major surge of federal agents to the Twin Cities, escalating an already intense immigration crackdown and sparking clashes with protesters. We also look at bipartisan backlash after President Trump amplifies a baseless conspiracy theory tied to the death of former House Speaker Melissa Hortman.And we have more Minnesota headlines you need to know, from Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey’s inauguration to the final ride of the Northstar Line,along with sports and a bright spot spotlighting volunteers spreading warmth across the metro. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday, January 2nd — A historic day in St. Paul as Kaohly Her is sworn in as mayor, becoming the first woman and first Hmong American to lead the city. We break down her upset victory, early priorities, and what she’s signaling to residents and businesses as she takes office.We also have a major update in Minnesota’s fraud crisis, as the Trump administration moves to suspend nearly 7,000 Minnesota borrowers tied to suspected COVID-era loan fraud, and why the state’s childcare system is now under heightened federal scrutiny.Plus, teachers in the Anoka-Hennepin School District return to the bargaining table with a strike looming, Team USA looks to bounce back against Finland, and what you need to know if you still don’t have a Real ID.And in our bright spot, more than 1,200 dogs take center stage this weekend at the Land O’ Lakes Kennel Club Dog Show in St. Paul.Join Maria Lisignoli for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thursday, January 1st — Minnesota’s fraud crisis takes a new turn as day care providers warn they could be forced to close if federal funding is frozen following unproven allegations made by a YouTube blogger. We break down the $185 million at stake, hear from the creator whose viral video sparked a “massive investigation,” and look ahead to upcoming congressional hearings in Washington.Also today: Minnesota’s new paid leave program is officially underway, with hundreds already applying, and several new state laws take effect—from changes to absentee ballot applications to clearer rules on work breaks. Plus, flu hospitalizations are surging across the state, snow emergencies are leading to hundreds of tows in the Twin Cities, and we explain how new federal changes could impact seniors’ budgets in 2026.We’ll also check sports, highlight a New Year’s health reset with Dry January, and end on a lighter note with the TSA’s cutest new canine calendar.Join Maria Lisignoli for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wednesday, December 31st — Minnesota is thrust into the national spotlight as federal officials freeze childcare funds amid new fraud allegations, prompting a sharp response from Governor Tim Walz. We have the latest on vandalism at a Minneapolis daycare, a major forfeiture order tied to the Feeding Our Future case, and Bloomington police searching for more potential victims in a child sex crimes investigation.We’re also tracking charges against a teen accused in two separate shootings, the start of Minnesota’s new paid family and medical leave program, and New Year’s Eve security preparations around the world. Plus, a positive update out of Stewartville, local ways to ring in 2026, World Junior Hockey action, and a Hall of Fame update for a former Vikings great. Join Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tuesday, December 30th — Icy roads are leading to more crashes across Minnesota, keeping auto body shops busy as winter weather creates dangerous driving conditions.Political fallout is also growing as Congressman Tom Emmer calls for deportations tied to fraud cases, even raising questions about U.S. citizenship, while GOP lawmakers urge Governor Tim Walz to resign ahead of the 2026 election. We break down what it could mean as Republicans line up to challenge the two-term governor.We also have new details in a Metro Transit bus shooting that injured three people, an emotional reelection announcement from Senator John Hoffman after a politically motivated attack on his family, and warnings of a possible teachers strike in Minneapolis.Plus, snowmobilers fall through the ice up north, charges are filed in the Christmas Day killing of a hospital security guard, Minnesota’s share of new rural health funding is revealed, and tips to keep pets safe in extreme cold, with a bright spot from New York City’s “Good Riddance Day” celebration.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Monday, December 29th — A winter snowstorm causes widespread impacts across the metro, with snow emergencies declared in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and several surrounding cities. We break down what you need to know about parking rules, road conditions, and improving, but still disrupted, air travel at MSP Airport as crews continue cleanup efforts.Plus, a major development in Minnesota’s ongoing fraud investigations. Federal authorities, including ICE and the FBI, are expected to inspect dozens of suspected fraud sites in Minneapolis as part of what officials are calling a sweeping crackdown tied to large-scale schemes exploiting federal programs, including the Feeding Our Future case.We also cover the deadly shooting of a teenager in Minneapolis and flags lowered statewide to honor a fallen firefighter. Plus, a critical house fire, a stabbing investigation on the North Shore, a massive product recall tied to contamination concerns, and a possible educators strike in Anoka-Hennepin.In sports, the Wild continue to benefit from Quinn Hughes’ impact, Team USA skates on at the World Juniors, Justin Jefferson makes NFL history, and the Timberwolves hit the road. And in today’s bright spot, goats in Elk River are happily munching donated Christmas trees to get through the winter.Join Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices