This week’s edition covers stories
from October 16th to October 22nd, 2025.
Today’s issue is 589 words, a 5-minute read
Hey folks, Mateo here.
This fall, Minnesotans have been making their voices heard, from the streets of Minneapolis to the halls of the Capitol. This week’s edition looks at the massive No Kings rallies that drew thousands statewide in defense of democracy, a bold push from St. Paul leaders to challenge state limits on local gun control, and the growing strain on families as the federal shutdown threatens essential food benefits. Dive in!
Minnesota Marches with the Nation
in Peaceful ‘No Kings’ Rallies
Tens of thousands of Minnesotans joined the No Kings protests this past weekend, peacefully rallying against authoritarianism and in support of democracy. In Minneapolis, participants filled major streets as speakers including Senator Tina Smith and Attorney General Keith Ellison addressed the crowd. The rallies, coordinated by Indivisible and local partners, were grounded in nonviolence and open participation, drawing both long-time activists and newcomers.
Across the country, more than 2,600 No Kingsevents took place in nearly every state, making it one of the largest coordinated protest days in recent years. Demonstrations in Washington, D.C., New York, and other cities drew massive turnouts, with protestors wearing yellow to symbolize unity and joy. Despite criticism from some Republican leaders, the rallies remained peaceful, with no arrests reported in major cities. The movement’s spirit of defiance and humor (seen in inflatable costumes and dancing crowds) signaled that millions of Americans remain ready to stand up for their rights and their democracy.
St. Paul Pushes Assault Weapon Ban
Despite State Restrictions
In the wake of the devastating mass shooting at Annunciation Church and School that claimed two young lives and injured dozens more, St. Paul city leaders are taking a stand. Mayor Melvin Carter and the City Council introduced an ordinance last week that would ban assault weapons, large-capacity magazines, and binary triggers within city limits. While state law currently prevents local governments from enacting firearm regulations, Carter said the move is about sending a clear message: cities can’t wait for Congress or the state to act on gun violence.
St. Paul’s proposal is the first of its kind among several Minnesota cities including Minneapolis, Bloomington, and Rochester urging the state to repeal its preemption law. The ordinance also targets ghost guns by requiring serial numbers for all firearms. Though largely symbolic for now, it signals growing frustration among local leaders who say they’ve run out of patience for inaction. “If they’re not going to, we have to be willing to do something,” Carter said.
SNAP Benefits at Risk
as Shutdown Drags On
The ongoing federal government shutdown is beginning to hit home in Minnesota, and for many families, it means food insecurity could deepen fast. State officials confirmed that November benefits for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the food portion of the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) will be paused until federal funding resumes. More than 400,000 Minnesotans rely on SNAP each month, many already juggling high grocery prices and tight budgets.
While October benefits remain available, a prolonged shutdown could leave families struggling to put food on the table. Local food shelves and meal programs are preparing for increased demand, but even they’re feeling the strain. Hunger Solution Minnesota and 2-1-1 are connecting residents with emergency food resources, though advocates warn this isn’t sustainable if the pause continues. SNAP not only feeds families, but it supports small grocers, farmers’ markets, and local economies. The longer the stalemate lasts in Washington, the larger the hit for Minnesota’s communities already living close to the edge.
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 watching football by night!
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