This week’s edition covers stories
from December 18th to December 24th, 2025.
Today’s issue is 492 words, a 4-minute read
Hey folks, Mateo here.
Happy Holidays! As we gather with loved ones, we know this week has been difficult for many in our community. While we celebrate, we’re also holding space for those facing uncertainty and fear. Here’s a quick look at what’s been happening across Minnesota.
This Week’s Headlines
Governor Tim Walz addresses federal immigration operations alongside faith and community leaders at north Minneapolis’ Shiloh Temple on December 23. Photo: Office of the Governor
ICE Operations Continue Across Twin Cities
Governor Tim Walz called the ongoing federal immigration crackdown “political theater” during a news conference Tuesday at Shiloh Temple in Minneapolis. The Department of Homeland Security reports hundreds of arrests since Operation Metro Surge began this month, though state and city leaders say U.S. citizens have also been detained. Walz warned of an expected increase in ICE presence over the holidays, making it “especially traumatizing for communities that wish to gather and celebrate.” Thousands marched along Lake Street this weekend in protest, and on Sunday, a federal agent fired their weapon after being struck by a motorist in St. Paul.
Immigrant-owned businesses along Lake Street are facing steep drops in customers and revenue as community members stay home out of fear. Quruxlow Restaurant reports business is down by half, with five employees too scared to come to work despite having green cards. At Karmel Mall, 50% of vendors have stopped coming, while Plaza Mexico has lost 95% of its vendors. In response, faith communities and local residents are intentionally shopping at these businesses. Holy Trinity Lutheran Church parishioners have spent $20,000 at Latino and Somali-owned businesses in the past two weeks, with many also delivering groceries to families afraid to leave their homes.
Minnesota Joins Lawsuit Against Federal Gender-Affirming Care Restrictions
Attorney General Keith Ellison joined 19 states and Washington, D.C. in suing the Department of Health and Human Services on Tuesday over a declaration threatening access to gender-affirming care for young people. The declaration, issued last Thursday by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., calls treatments like puberty blockers and hormone therapy unsafe and warns doctors they could be excluded from Medicare and Medicaid if they provide such care. Ellison stated his office is reviewing the rules and emphasized that “it is illegal to discriminate against transgender patients in Minnesota” and that transgender Minnesotans can still access healthcare they rely on.
Vikings Host Lions on Christmas Day
Today, the Vikings face the Detroit Lions at U.S. Bank Stadium in a Christmas Day matchup streaming on Netflix at 3:30 p.m. Snoop Dogg headlines the halftime show. Minnesota has been eliminated from playoff contention, while Detroit holds slim playoff hopes at 8-7.
Wild Make Blockbuster Trade for Star Defenseman
The Minnesota Wild acquired 2024 Norris Trophy winner Quinn Hughes in a stunning trade with Vancouver, sending Marco Rossi, Zeev Buium, Liam Ohgren, and a 2026 first-round pick to the Canucks. Hughes scored in his debut and has helped the Wild maintain their third-place position in the Central Division with a 22-10-6 record.
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 holidays by night!
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