Politics & Government

By: Jenna Pakirtzis

June 30, 2025

As he enters the second half of his stay as Minnesota’s 41st governor, Tim Walz has enacted some of the most groundbreaking progressive legislation in the state’s history. With equity, access, and opportunity at the core of his platform, here’s a look at what his administration has accomplished thus far.

Accomplishments

Historic Education Budget

Tim Walz, a respected high school teacher and football coach before entering politics, was once honored as the “most inspiring teacher.” His dedication to education is evident in his legislative work. One of his most significant achievements is securing the largest public school funding increase in Minnesota history, allocating 2.3 billion to education during his tenure.

Another major accomplishment in his education reform efforts was providing free school breakfasts and lunches to all children, regardless of economic background. This initiative ensures that every child in Minnesota receives two full meals a day throughout the school year.

As a result of these efforts, Minnesota saw its highest graduation rates on record for the 2024 graduating class, with 84% of students earning their diplomas.

Protecting Reproductive Rights for Generations to Come

In the face of uncertainty on the national level about reproductive rights, Walz reinforced Minnesota’s commitment to providing access to affordable, fully autonomous healthcare to all Minnesotans, championing reproductive justice.

Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, Walz signed the Protect Reproductive Options Act into law, securing the right to make independent decisions about reproductive health, regardless of changes in the Minnesota Supreme Court. The law expands protections for access to contraceptives, abortion services, and fertility treatments, establishing Minnesota as a leader in reproductive rights.

Legal Adult-Use Cannabis

In 2023, Governor Walz signed bill HF 100 into law, legalizing adult-use cannabis and creating a regulated industry in Minnesota. The legislation established the Office of Cannabis Management to oversee licensing, sales, and public health and safety standards. It also introduced a 10% tax on all recreational cannabis sales, contributing to economic growth and industry development.

This law decriminalized the possession of cannabis in specific amounts, signaling a significant shift away from federally recommended criminal penalties. A key provision of the bill established the Cannabis Expungement Board and introduced the automatic expungement of low-level cannabis convictions, an overdue step toward justice, particularly for communities of color disproportionately affected by strict cannabis enforcement.

Supporting Minnesota Families

The Walz administration has delivered sweeping policies aimed at improving the lives of working and middle-class families throughout the state. The 2023 Minnesota Omnibus Tax Bill, or HF 1938, established a Child Tax Credit providing up to $1,750 per qualifying child under the age of 18, with no cap on the number of qualifying children a family can claim. This refundable credit is projected to reduce child poverty in Minnesota by as much as one-third, marking it as one of the most ambitious anti-poverty initiatives in the nation. As of early 2025, 236,000 families have benefited, receiving an average credit of $2,172 per return.

In that same year, Walz signed a historic Paid Family and Medical Leave bill, guaranteeing that Minnesotans no longer have to choose between their health, families, and livelihoods. Set to take effect in January 2026, the program provides a minimum of 12 weeks per year for individuals facing a serious illness or injury, welcoming a new child through birth or adoption, or caring for an ill or injured family member.

The North Star Promise

Signed into law in 2023, the North Star Promise Scholarship Program is designed to remove financial barriers to higher education and increase college enrollment among Minnesota residents. It covers tuition and fees at public universities, colleges, and tribal colleges for families earning less than $80,000 per year, supporting both two-year and four-year degree programs.

Walz’s commitment to expanding educational access through the North Star Promise reflects his broader dedication to equity and opportunity, making a lasting investment in Minnesota’s future.

A Sustainable Minnesota

In 2023, Walz helped set one of the boldest clean energy goals in the nation by signing the Clean Electricity Standard, a law requiring Minnesota’s utilities to provide 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040. By 2030, providers are expected to provide 80% carbon-free electricity, and 90% by 2035. Walz didn’t just stop at signing this bill; he’s also worked to remove bureaucratic roadblocks that could slow the clean energy transition process. In 2024, with a wind energy farm in Dexter, Minnesota as his backdrop, Walz signed the Minnesota Energy Infrastructure Permitting Act, or the MEIPA. This bill acts to speed up the permitting and construction side of things for renewable energy projects, saving an estimated 9 to 12 months from development plans. Walz is helping Minnesota transition to clean energy faster, solidifying his plans for our state’s long-term commitment to halting climate change.

Looking Ahead

Governor Tim Walz’s record shows his commitment to keeping his promises, with his leadership rooted in equity, opportunity, and a long-term commitment to bettering Minnesota. Whether he’s fighting climate change, child poverty, or making education more accessible for all Minnesotans, his administration has left a mark on every part of Minnesota life. As we watch his term continue to play out, what more will he accomplish, and will we be asking him to lead us again?

By James Berreth on June 14th, 2025

Earlier, the Associated Press identified Vance Boelter as a suspect in the shooting deaths of Melissa and Mark Hortman, and the attempted assassination of John and Yvette Hoffman. A quick search led to the website www.mnafricaunited.org which included a photo of Dr. Boelter. It claims he is the CEO of Praetorian Guard Security Services in Minnesota. Dr. Boelter currently resides with his wife Jenny and their children. Basil Ajuo, CEO of MAU, confirmed Dr. Boelter had only participated in speaking engagements for MAU and was not a regular employee.

MAU has an office at the 7900 block of Brooklyn Blvd. in Brooklyn Park.

A tip line has been set up to assist in the investigation of this morning’s shooting. If you have any information that could lead to the arrest of Vance Luther Boelter, please call 877-996-6222. The suspect is considered armed and dangerous—if spotted, do not approach. Instead, call 911 immediately.

By James Berreth on June 14th, 2025

A gunman posing as law enforcement entered the home of Melissa and Mark Hortman in Brooklyn Park on Saturday morning and assassinated both in what has been called by Gov. Walz a “politically motivated attack.” Details are still emerging so there is no known cause as of yet. But Gov. Walz did say this of Hortman, “Our state lost a great leader, and I lost the dearest of friends. Speaker Hortman was someone who served the state of Minnesota with grace, compassion, humor and a sense of service. She was a formidable public servant, a fixture and a giant in Minnesota. She woke up every day determined to make this state a better place. She is irreplaceable and will be missed by so many.” 

Additionally, DFL State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife Yvette were also shot at their home in Champlin by the same suspect. Both John and Yvette are alive, but their condition is unknown at present.  

This is a developing story and further details will be provided as they become available. 

By: Ryan Wolfe 

May 5, 2025

With growing anti-vaccine skepticism, measles and tuberculosis cases have surged across Texas, New Mexico, and Kansas, creating new public health challenges for the current administration. Reports indicate this is the largest measles outbreak in the U.S. in a decade. Meanwhile, a brewing mental health crisis remains largely overlooked by major health departments, with its long-term effects yet to be fully understood.

Before delving into the mental health aspect of public health, it’s crucial to highlight the role of medicine and global collaboration in combating infectious diseases. The inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) and oral polio vaccine (OPV), introduced in the 1950s and 60s, played a vital role in eradicating polio from the U.S. by 1979 and from the Western Hemisphere by 1991. This success was driven by strong public health initiatives and coordinated efforts, demonstrating the power of medical advancements. However, polio has not been completely eliminated, underscoring the continued need for vigilance and prevention.

Countries like Nigeria, Pakistan, and Afghanistan remain at high risk for polio due to limited healthcare and vaccine access, leaving many vulnerable to severe illness or paralysis. In 2022, an unvaccinated man in New York contracted polio, prompting swift action from public health teams to analyze wastewater in Rockland County and nearby areas. This incident underscores the fragility of public health and the critical importance of collective responsibility in protecting ourselves and future generations.

Public health discussions in the media largely revolve around RFK Jr.’s focus on food, chronic illness, and healthy living, or the consequences of cuts to vaccine and cancer research. Meanwhile, mental health remains overlooked, despite its growing urgency in the post-COVID era. Advancements in AI and technology have quietly contributed to the worsening crisis, while issues like homelessness and the opioid epidemic further signal an alarming mental health crisis fueled by current conditions in the United States.

A study monitoring the screen time of 5,100 youth found that excessive technology use correlates with increased depression, social anxiety, aggression, and bullying. Given the brain’s malleability, prolonged screen exposure may heighten teens’ risk of mental health struggles, impacting their academics, social interactions, and potentially leading to isolation.

Professor Halpern from U.C. Berkeley acknowledges that A.I. could have therapeutic applications but emphasizes its limitations in deeply personal therapeutic relationships compared to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT, a straightforward practice where individuals document their thoughts and emotions, serves as a structured method for tracking mental health over time. While A.I. might enhance digital record-keeping, it lacks the depth needed for direct therapeutic engagement.

Halpern also expresses concern that people may misconstrue their A.I. companion as a genuine friend or source of emotional care. While chatbots are programmed to respond in a supportive manner, they draw on data rather than shared human experiences, making their interactions fundamentally different from those of a real therapist or confidant.

The ethical implications of A.I. in mental health care remain a topic of debate among doctors and patients alike. Meanwhile, the growing homelessness crisis is deeply connected to mental health struggles. Many homeless individuals, often coming from backgrounds of poverty and instability, face heightened risks of infectious diseases, cancer, suicide, homicide, and heart conditions.

Lack of financial resources and the stigma of being perceived as “unstable” frequently prevent them from receiving proper care. Psychiatric services for the homeless are often overlooked, as efforts tend to prioritize immediate necessities like shelter, food, and water. Additionally, barriers such as limited communication, lack of transportation, and systemic obstacles make seeking mental health support even more difficult.

A stark reality is that homeless individuals are disproportionately exposed to violence, and untreated mental health conditions—including depression and addiction—can not only worsen their own circumstances but also contribute to broader public safety concerns.

While homelessness presents immense challenges, there is hope—many organizations are dedicated to helping people rebuild their lives. One such group is Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota, which works to prevent evictions, provide housing for struggling families, youth, and individuals with disabilities, and collaborate with developers to ensure affordable, stable living conditions. Serving communities across the Twin Cities, Brainerd, and St. Cloud, thousands of dedicated employees and volunteers work tirelessly to support those in need during their most difficult moments.

The future of public health feels uncertain as the new administration begins to shape its policies. Infectious diseases remain a persistent threat, underscoring the importance of maintaining hygiene and holding health agencies accountable. Advocacy is crucial—contacting local representatives and senators can help emphasize the risks of cutting research on infectious diseases, cancer, HIV/AIDS, and more.

Mental health also demands greater attention, as homelessness rises and children struggle to navigate an increasingly technological world. While organizations work tirelessly, individual actions can make a meaningful difference. Simple steps, like reducing screen time for young people and consulting trusted physicians when issues arise, are vital.

Stay informed about your health, ask questions, and embrace the evolving nature of science and medicine. Public health is the cornerstone of healthy communities, and awareness is the first step toward supporting those in need. Whether addressing mental health or communicable diseases, accessible healthcare and reliable public health data are essential tools in combating illness and fostering well-being. Take care of yourselves and each other—every effort counts.

By: Zi Yuan Wong

April 18, 2025

The United States is navigating truly unprecedented times. Like many others, I find myself questioning how we arrived at this point, where the newly appointed department heads of this administration appear to be chosen from the least qualified rather than the most capable. Instead of appointing experts who can implement meaningful programs to support marginalized communities, the current administration seems intent on ignoring pressing issues and systematically dismantling their departments piece by piece.

Before taking office, President Trump’s campaign messaging was consistently clear: he promised to “drain the swamp” and govern the country “like a business.” In a nation renowned for its corporate giants, the idea of a successful business founder leading the government seemed appealing on paper. The vision was that government agencies could enhance their services, better serve their constituents, and achieve greater efficiency while cutting costs—hallmarks of a well-run business.

Unfortunately, the primary goal of businesses isn’t to serve their customers better while earning profits on the side. Instead, businesses are fundamentally driven by the pursuit of profit, and when they grow large enough, there are often no boundaries they won’t cross to ensure those profits. If achieving record earnings means resorting to corporate layoffs and leaving countless individuals unemployed, the decision for them becomes all too clear.

The situation escalated when President Trump appointed Tesla CEO Elon Musk to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), leveraging his corporate experience to reduce federal spending. DOGE quickly implemented sweeping changes, including laying off federal workers, weakening the Department of Education, shutting down DEI programs, and potentially gaining access to private data within government systems. While these actions were framed as efforts to enhance efficiency, they may ultimately backfire. Many workers have been left unemployed, leading to increased government spending on compensation. Meanwhile, local economies are shrinking, further straining America’s economic landscape and leaving the government with dwindling reliable income sources.

While a bloated government is far from ideal, a lean government that fails to adequately serve millions of citizens is equally unworkable. Government programs and services play a vital role in enhancing and supporting the lives of its people. Gutting these resources under the guise of efficiency not only strips individuals of their livelihoods but also abandons those in need.

President Trump pledged to run America like a business, and his recent actions with DOGE suggest he’s following through—though perhaps in the same way he managed ventures like Taj Mahal Trump. 

By: Ryan Wolfe 

April 18, 2025

Major plagues have dominated the world for over hundreds of years. There was the Bubonic Plague of 1346 which ravaged 2/3 of Europe’s population at the time; the Great Plague of London in 1665; the Spanish flu of 1918, which millions of the world population died; the H3N2 virus that spread in the late 1960s; the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s, and most recently the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Diseases manifest in a wide range of forms, from mild illnesses like the common cold to severe conditions such as Ebola. In a more globalized society, public health has become more of a prevalent topic in the modern world. 

Public trust in health authorities rapidly declined during the COVID-19 pandemic, as skepticism toward vaccines and certain policies grew. Controversies surrounding masks, school closures, and social distancing dominated discussions throughout the pandemic’s three-year peak. Vaccine hesitancy, in some cases, stems from historical injustices, such as the unethical Tuskegee Syphilis study, where Black participants were deliberately left untreated for decades.

Despite past unethical medical practices, vaccines have played a crucial role in eradicating diseases like polio and chickenpox in various parts of the world. In the U.S., the CDC reports a 97% reduction in chickenpox cases since the vaccination program began in the 1990s. This highlights the power of medical advancements and global collaboration in preventing illness, reducing health risks, and ultimately saving lives.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the new Health and Human Services director, aims to “Make America Healthy Again,” with a strong focus on eliminating harmful food dyes and chemicals from everyday products, including sugary drinks and snacks. While his push for healthier eating could positively address the rising obesity epidemic, his controversial stance on vaccines and medicine raises concerns about potential harm to public health.

RFK Jr. has long been associated with spreading vaccine misinformation, including his claim that measles and mumps vaccines contribute to autism—a notion based on a discredited 1998 study that was later retracted for lack of evidence. In November 2023, he spoke at an anti-vaccine conference in Georgia, suggesting NIH employees shift focus from infectious disease research to chronic illnesses. However, halting research on infectious diseases would not eliminate them; it would only delay responses and leave the public vulnerable to their harmful effects.

Misinformation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted public trust, aligning with some of RFK Jr.’s narratives. As of recent reports, only 63% of Americans believe the COVID vaccine is safer than the disease itself—a sharp decline from 75% in April 2021. Additionally, 16% still subscribe to the debunked theory that vaccines are linked to autism, despite repeated scientific refutations. This underscores a persistent misunderstanding of correlation versus causation, fueling skepticism around vaccination.

Here’s a clear example of why correlation doesn’t always mean causation: while high sodium intake and excessive calorie consumption are both associated with obesity, they are also linked to high blood pressure. However, determining which factor has a more direct impact on blood pressure is complex. The relationship between these variables remains nuanced, and surface-level observations may not capture the full picture. As research continues, the deeper connections between these factors will become clearer.

RFK Jr.’s public health mission emphasizes prevention, addressing chronic illnesses, and promoting healthier eating habits. However, his proposed cuts to systems tracking HIV/AIDS and infectious diseases could pose significant challenges to healthcare management. Public health resources remain critical in the U.S. and globally, especially in regions still battling diseases like malaria and yellow fever. In poorer countries, access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure is still a pressing need. Moving away from vaccines and global health initiatives risks undermining progress and leaving vulnerable populations at greater risk.

Next, I’ll explore the profound impact of public health initiatives on both the U.S. and the world. I’ll also highlight the often-overlooked issue of mental health, examining how it affects people of all ages—from children to the elderly—particularly in our increasingly digital society.