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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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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Friday, December 26th — The world is watching Minnesota as the IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship gets underway in the Twin Cities, with Team USA chasing a historic third straight gold medal on home ice.The day after Christmas also marks the start of Kwanzaa, with a multi-day Pan-African cultural celebration kicking off at Midtown Global Market. Plus, despite unseasonably warm weather, the Ice Castles open at the State Fairgrounds for their earliest season ever, though that same warmup is forcing the city of coon rapids to shut down some outdoor rinks for the next few days. We also break down what not to recycle after the holidays and get an update after a water main break along West River Parkway. In sports, the Gophers face New Mexico in the Rate Bowl, the Wolves fall in a wild overtime game in Denver, and the Wild prepare for Winnipeg. And in today’s bright spot, a $100,000 Powerball win lands in the Twin Cities.Join Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Thursday, December 25th — Immigration fears are casting a shadow over Christmas celebrations for many Hispanic families in the Twin Cities. We hear from a Lake Street bakery owner who says ICE operations have driven customers away, and we break down new reporting that a large ICE detention facility could be planned for Woodbury, even as city officials say they’ve heard nothing about it.Police are searching for answers after a man is stabbed and critically injured before boarding a Minneapolis bus early Christmas morning. Plus, the season of giving continues as local restaurants and volunteers serve hundreds of meals to first responders during the 42nd annual Christmas Eve dinner.It’s a Christmas Day matchup for the Vikings and Lions, with playoff implications and a depleted Vikings lineup heading into kickoff. We also have the latest on legal pressure surrounding newly uncovered Jeffrey Epstein case files, a $1.8 billion Powerball jackpot winner, Minnesota sports headlines, and a bright spot highlighting support for local veterans through MAC-V. Join Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Wednesday, December 24th — Police arrest a 17-year-old suspect in last week’s shooting on a Minneapolis bus that left three people injured. We have the latest on the investigation and what police are saying as the victims recover. It’s Christmas Eve, and we break down what stores are still open for last-minute gifts and groceries, plus tips for navigating the holiday rush. We also hear from psychologists on how to manage holiday stress and set healthy boundaries during what can be an overwhelming time of year.Plus: teachers in the Anoka-Hennepin School District prepare for contract mediation with a possible strike looming, criticism grows over the DOJ’s release of Jeffrey Epstein documents, an arrest in the Maple Grove Benihana shooting, Hopkins’ Christmas Eve Luminaries light up the night, a $1.7 billion Powerball jackpot, Minnesota sports headlines, and a bright spot as Lindsey Vonn qualifies for her final Olympic Games.Join Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Tuesday, December 23rd — Minnesota leaders warn of increased immigration enforcement over the holidays, as Governor Tim Walz and Twin Cities mayors say ICE tactics are creating fear, disrupting worship, and hurting Somali and Latino owned businesses. We break down what leaders are expecting to see in the coming days and why they say the raids are putting public safety at risk.We also have major developments in two high-profile murder cases: a guilty verdict in the deadly shooting at a Minneapolis homeless encampment, and life-without-parole sentences upheld in the murder of metro real estate agent Monique Baugh. Plus, educators in the state’s largest school district file intent to strike, citing rising health insurance costs and non-competitive pay as negotiations stall.Plus: newly released DOJ documents tied to Jeffrey Epstein, holiday travel tips from MSP as millions hit the roads and skies, falling gas prices across Minnesota, a $1.7 billion Powerball jackpot, Twin Cities sports tonight, and a bright spot exploring why we wrap gifts and how the tradition became a $16 billion industry.Join Maria Lisignoli for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Monday, December 22nd — Teachers in the Anoka-Hennepin School District move closer to a possible strike, as thousands of educators overwhelmingly vote to authorize one over concerns about health insurance costs and pay, and school leaders prepare for a special board meeting tonight. We also look at two separate crashes involving Minnesota State Patrol squad cars over the weekend, prompting renewed warnings about impaired driving and increased enforcement through the end of the year.A candlelight vigil outside the Hennepin County Courthouse shines a light on immigration enforcement concerns and civil rights, as protesters hold a 24-hour event on the winter solstice to show solidarity with immigrant families. Plus: new developments in Minnesota’s ongoing fight against fraud, multiple shooting investigations across the metro, holiday travel surging at MSP Airport, a $1.6 billion Powerball jackpot, updates from Minnesota sports, and a sweet Bright Spot for National Cookie Exchange Day.Join Amelia Santaniello for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Friday, December 19th — Explosive new indictments shine a harsh spotlight on Minnesota’s fraud crisis, as federal prosecutors reveal eye-popping numbers tied to social services programs and warn that as much as half or more of $18 billion billed since 2018 may have been stolen. We break down the latest charges, new federal raids, and how investigators describe so-called “fraud tourists” targeting Minnesota.We also remember a retired Twin Cities police officer killed while stopping to help a stranded driver on an icy road, as holiday travel officially lifts off at MSP with nearly 1.8 million travelers expected in the coming weeks. And a powerful night of healing at the Annunciation Catholic School Christmas concert, where students used music to honor two classmates they lost this year, Harper and Fletcher.Plus: new charges after school threat investigations in Dakota County, an update on respiratory illness outbreaks, a Minneapolis homeless memorial amid a mayoral veto, national crime and court developments, Minnesota sports headlines, and the Ice Castles are returning earlier this year.Join Maria Lisignoli for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Thursday, December 18th — A NEXT Weather Alert is in effect as rain gives way to snow showers this afternoon, creating slick and dangerous travel conditions across Minnesota.We also hear new insight into Monday’s chaotic ICE operation in Minneapolis, including a former ICE agent’s blunt assessment of what went wrong and why these confrontations may be becoming more common.Federal prosecutors announce new indictments in Minnesota’s widening fraud investigation, with two out-of-state men accused of exploiting taxpayer-funded programs, pushing the total number of people charged to 90.And caregivers, seniors, and families are left in limbo after Minnesota failed to submit Medicaid rate increases on time, putting future raises and costs into question.Plus: a deadly overnight fire in St. Paul, a holiday travel surge at MSP Airport, inflation and holiday cost concerns, Kevin Garnett’s return to the Timberwolves, changes in Twins ownership, and a quirky bright spot involving the Planters Nutmobile.Join Maria Lisignoli for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Wednesday, December 17th — Minnesota’s ACLU is suing ICE, alleging federal agents violated the constitutional rights of protesters, observers, and journalists during recent enforcement activity in Minneapolis. The lawsuit follows a press conference today and includes accounts from community members who say they were detained while documenting or questioning ICE actions, as DHS confirms more than 400 arrests during Operation Metro Surge.Educators in the Anoka-Hennepin School District are voting on whether to strike as contract talks stall, with union leaders warning rising insurance costs are leaving some teachers with less take-home pay. We’re also tracking disturbing reports of medical and biohazard waste showing up at a metro recycling center, raising safety concerns for workers.Plus: the Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame announces its new home in Inver Grove Heights, a USDA investigation into SNAP fraud allegations in four metro counties, bipartisan action from Senator Amy Klobuchar to crack down on AI-powered scams, and a police chaplain charged in a hit-and-run that seriously injured a toddler.Join Maria Lisignoli for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Tuesday, December 16th — Newly released audio captures a frantic call for help as Hennepin County deputies rushed to a violent confrontation between ICE agents and community members in south Minneapolis, marking the most intense clash yet during Operation Metro Surge. Business owners and faith leaders say stepped-up immigration enforcement is keeping families home and devastating Lake Street businesses.We also have new details from ICE on a federal raid at a Chanhassen construction site, and a sharp response from the agency after Rep. Ilhan Omar said her son was pulled over by ICE. Several Twin Cities high schools are closed today amid reported threats, as Governor Tim Walz signs new executive orders aimed at reducing gun violence, and state officials pause licensing for another Medicaid-related program over fraud concerns.Plus: special Minnesota House primaries, major school closures in Robbinsdale due to budget cuts, a Christmas Day Vikings halftime show headlined by Snoop Dogg, and Merriam-Webster’s word of the year.Join Maria Lisignoli for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Monday, December 15th — New details in a shooting outside a southern Minnesota high school that left a teenage wrestler in critical but stable condition, as the Stewartville community returns to class with counseling support in place.We also look at a deadly antisemitic terror attack at a Hanukkah celebration in Australia and how Jewish leaders in Minnesota are responding, plus a Minnesota congresswoman’s claim that ICE agents stopped her son amid growing protests over immigration enforcement.Plus: an arrest in the deaths of Rob Reiner and his wife, an update in the Brown University shooting, rising flu hospitalizations, Toys for Tots for student parents, holiday shipping deadlines, and Minnesota sports headlines.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Friday, December 12th — A high school wrestler is in critical condition after an early-morning shooting in the Stewartville High School parking lot. Investigators say the team was boarding a bus at 5 a.m. when the student was shot. Minutes later, an adult man was found dead nearby from a self-inflicted gunshot. School is canceled today as the community leans on counselors and awaits answers about the relationship between the two.Governor Tim Walz unveils a new statewide fraud prevention initiative, tapping former BCA superintendent Tim O’Malley to lead the effort. GOP candidate Lisa Demuth criticizes the move, saying the administration ignored fraud for years.Lindsey Vonn returns to the top of the podium at age 41, winning the World Cup downhill in Switzerland just weeks before the Milan Winter Olympics.Plus: dangerous wind chills expected this weekend, two men shot in north Minneapolis, Minneapolis approves a plan for George Floyd Square, ICE activity sparks protest in Edina, and the FBI details a chaotic encounter involving an immigration agent in Plymouth.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Thursday, December 11th — The race for Minnesota governor is heating up as MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell launches a campaign for the GOP nomination. We break down his announcement, the reaction from Gov. Tim Walz, and what it means for the crowded field.Minneapolis police are investigating a string of violent incidents, including two separate deadly shootings overnight, plus new details after an officer opened fire during an armed standoff.The Justice Department files a civil rights lawsuit against Minneapolis Public Schools, accusing the district of discriminatory employment practices. We explain what’s in the lawsuit, and how MPS is responding.And rising energy costs are hitting Minnesota farmers hard. We look at what’s driving the increases and what rural leaders are asking lawmakers to do.Plus: Gov. Tim Walz pushes back on federal immigration enforcement tactics in Minneapolis, Metro Transit secures a major grant for hybrid buses, snow emergency tows pile up, and Powerball climbs to $1 billion.And in your Bright Spot, Time Magazine names the “Architects of AI” as its People of the Year.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Wednesday, December 10th — Federal immigration activity in Minneapolis escalated as agents used pepper spray in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood. Council Member Jamal Osman says a U.S. citizen was tackled and detained before being released in the snow. Immigration officials say no arrests were made.A 47-year-old LSG Sky Chefs employee was hit and killed by a plow at MSP Airport, as snowy conditions led to more than 260 crashes and spinouts statewide.Snow emergencies are now in effect across Minneapolis, St. Paul, and several suburbs. We lay out the parking rules and share safety tips from a cardiologist on shoveling heavy, wet snow.Plus: bipartisan pushback to President Trump’s upcoming AI executive order, WCCO’s “Home for the Holidays” campaign needs your help, The Strokes headline next summer’s Yacht Club Festival, and the Gophers volleyball team heads to the Sweet Sixteen.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Tuesday, December 9th — Snow and rain move into Minnesota, prompting a NEXT Weather Alert Day and a potentially slick evening commute.Federal scrutiny over long-running Medicaid fraud concerns is intensifying, with officials warning Minnesota could face funding consequences.An ICE arrest at Augsburg University is raising questions after conflicting accounts from campus officials and Homeland Security. ICE says 20 immigrants have now been detained under “Operation Metro Surge,” adding to growing community tension.And Minnesota is looking to Chicago for clues on what stepped-up immigration enforcement could look like here, with insight from CBS Chicago reporter Sabrina Franza.Also today: a new federal farm aid package, the investigation into the Prior Lake Mosque and school fire, fresh State Fair concert announcements, and Minnesota sports chatter.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Monday, December 8th — A Prior Lake Mosque and private school is closed after an overnight fire caused major damage and a collapsed roof. State and federal investigators, including the ATF, are now looking into the cause as the community expresses concern.A Superior Police Officer is recovering after being shot multiple times during a traffic stop. The shooter later barricaded himself inside a middle school before surrendering. Students moved to at-home learning due to building damage.ICE activity continues across the Twin Cities, with Burnsville officials confirming new arrests and Augsburg University reporting an encounter with armed agents outside a residence hall. ICE says 12 immigrants have been detained so far, including five Somali individuals, amid growing tension and community pushback.And questions over fraud investigations in Minnesota continue to intensify, with new developments unfolding behind the scenes.Also today: updates in the Luigi Mangione case, a deadly domestic stabbing in St. Cloud, Anoka-Hennepin’s next round of budget cuts, Paramount Skydance’s $108.4 billion bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, and thousands gathering for 3,000 Acts of Kindness. In sports: Vikings win big, Wolves seek a sixth straight victory. And the Bloomington Glowing Tree shines once more.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for this episode of 4 Things to Know.
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Friday, December 5th — Federal prosecutors file new kidnapping charges against Abdimahat Bille Mohamed after he received probation in a recent Hennepin County case, sparking sharp reactions from state and federal officials. ICE’s “Operation Metro Surge” continues in the Twin Cities, with 12 arrests so far and new questions after plain-clothed DHS agents visited Hola Arepa.Nearly two years after the Lutsen Lodge fire, owner Bryce Campbell is charged with arson and insurance fraud, as investigators outline deep financial troubles and key messages tied to the case. And after a slow, snowy commute, fresh powder gives skiers and winter businesses a welcome boost at Theo Wirth Park.Also today: St. Paul reports its 13th homicide, Luigi Mangione’s court hearing is postponed, a CDC panel votes to shift infant hepatitis B vaccine recommendations, and holiday events and charity drives kick off across the metro. In sports: Wolves win, Wild fall, and Adam Thielen reunites with Aaron Rodgers in Pittsburgh. Today’s Bright Spot: a new holiday Coke flavor hits shelves.Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for this episode of 4 Things to Know.
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