This week’s edition covers stories
from November 20th to November 26th, 2025.
Today’s issue is 584 words, a 5-minute read
Hey folks, Mateo here.
Happy Thanksgiving! As we gather with loved ones and reflect on what we’re grateful for, we hope your day is filled with warmth, good food, and meaningful moments. This week brought both seasonal transitions and significant developments across the state. This edition covers federal immigration operations that sparked community protests on Saint Paul’s East Side, a policy change threatening Minnesota’s hemp industry and thousands of jobs, and the Vikings’ quarterback challenges as their playoff hopes fade. Plus, we look at how the season’s first major snowstorm impacted travel and daily life across the Twin Cities. Dive in!
Federal Immigration Operations Draw
Protests on Saint Paul’s East Side
A demonstrator confronts law enforcement during federal immigration operations in Saint Paul on Tuesday.
📸 Kerem Yücel/MPR News
Federal immigration enforcement agents conducted two operations in Saint Paul within a week, sparking confrontations between protesters and law enforcement. Last Tuesday, ICE arrested 14 people during a raid at Bro-Tex Inc., a paper distribution company MPR News, and this Tuesday, agents arrested a man from Honduras who had previously been deported FOX 9 at a residence in the Payne-Phalen neighborhood. Hundreds of community members and protesters gathered at both scenes, with Tuesday’s operation resulting in the use of chemical irritants by St. Paul police. Mayor Melvin Carter and City Council Vice President Hwa Jeong Kim criticized the operations, with Carter stating federal agents “created a chaotic scene” and arrived without notifying local authorities. Governor Tim Walz said the state received no warning from federal authorities and questioned whether the operation was truly about public safety.
Federal Hemp Ban Threatens
Minnesota’s THC Industry
📸 Mary Murphy/Forum News Service
A provision in the bill that ended the federal government shutdown effectively bans hemp products containing more than 0.4 milligrams of THC, threatening Minnesota’s hemp-derived THC beverage and edibles industry. The ban could cost 2,700 jobs in Minnesota and force 23% of state breweries to close. The industry has one year before the ban takes effect, and Minnesota’s congressional delegation is working to secure exemptions for states with regulatory frameworks. The policy change has caught many Minnesota businesses off guard, as the state had built a regulated market for hemp-derived products. Industry advocates are calling on lawmakers to protect Minnesota’s framework, which includes testing requirements and age restrictions.
Vikings Face Quarterback Crisis
After Loss to Packers
📸 Wm. Glasheen/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
J.J. McCarthy was placed in concussion protocol after Sunday’s loss to the Packers, with undrafted rookie Max Brosmer in line to potentially start against Seattle. The Vikings fell to 4-7 after a 23-6 loss where McCarthy threw for just 87 yards and two interceptions. The team’s playoff hopes are dimming as they navigate injuries at the most critical position. Minnesota faces Seattle this Sunday in what could be a make-or-break game for their postseason aspirations. The Vikings’ struggles mark a disappointing turn after early-season optimism, with the quarterback situation adding uncertainty to an already challenging year.
First Major Snowstorm Hits
Minnesota Before Thanksgiving
A winter storm moved through Minnesota ahead of Thanksgiving, bringing up to 4 inches of snow to the Twin Cities area by Wednesday morning. The Minnesota State Patrol reported nearly 300 crashes between Tuesday noon and Wednesday morning, with 30 semi trucks jackknifed. The storm brought strong wind gusts between 30 and 40 mph, creating low visibility for Thanksgiving travelers. Central Minnesota saw some of the highest totals, with areas like Moose Lake receiving over 8 inches. The timing complicated holiday travel plans, with dozens of schools closing or delaying classes. Cold air is expected to stick around through the weekend, with temperatures in the 20s and another round of snow possible Friday into Saturday.
Stay informed, stay connected.
See you next week!
–
Mateo and the NewPrensa team
Hi, friend: Mateo here!
I’m a Communications Specialist by day and enjoying the snow by night!
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