Andy Brehm joins Kyle Shiely to break down what could become one of Minnesota’s most competitive Senate races in twenty years and whether Michelle Tafoya is striking the right tone with Minnesota voters.

Republicans are entering this election with something they’ve lacked in recent statewide races, candidates voters may actually see as credible alternatives to the DFL. With Tafoya facing Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, the race features sharp contrasts in perspectives over taxes, government spending, economic growth and Minnesota’s political direction.

But is Tafoya’s message helping her make that case?

Kyle and Andy debate her recent Fox News appearance, where Tafoya said Minnesotans were embarrassed to say they are from here. Kyle questions whether that kind of negativity risks overshadowing a stronger economic message, while Andy calls it “tough love and highlights the need to acknowledge concerns about fraud, government accountability and people leaving the state.

They also examine how Tafoya can criticize Minnesota’s problems while still offering voters an optimistic vision, whether her blunt style will connect with undecided Minnesotans, and what role former Senator Norm Coleman could play behind the scenes.

With plenty of voters still making up their minds, the battle over Minnesota’s political identity may only be getting started.

A federal investigation into anti-ICE protesters is raising new questions about just how far the government should be allowed to go in surveilling Americans.

Minnesota Reformer editor-in-chief J. Patrick Coolican joins Kyle Shiely to break down revelations that federal investigators accessed private communications, financial records, labor organizations, and other civic groups while investigating people accused of disrupting ICE operations at the Whipple Federal Building. The tactics are prompting a bigger question: When does a criminal investigation become political surveillance?

Kyle and Patrick connect the controversy to one of the darkest chapters in modern American intelligence gathering—the abuses uncovered by the Church Committee in the 1970s—and ask whether today’s surveillance technology is racing ahead of the laws meant to control it. And there’s a warning for both parties: powers used against your political opponents today can be used against you tomorrow.

Then, the fight over mining near the Boundary Waters took center stage this week when Governor Tim Walz’s issued an executive action which could force Minnesota’s next governor to make a politically explosive decision over mining, jobs, environmental risk, and the future of the Iron Range.

From federal surveillance in Minnesota to the next major fight over the Boundary Waters, Patrick Coolican breaks down two stories with consequences that could extend far beyond the headlines.

Read Patrick's editorial: https://minnesotareformer.com/2026/08/13/the-government-is-spying-on-its-own-citizens-again/

Amy Klobuchar could be headed for the governor’s office but what happens to her Senate seat if she wins could be an even bigger story.

Kyle Shiely and political strategist Mike Norton dig into one of the biggest unanswered questions hanging over Minnesota politics: should Klobuchar tell voters who she would appoint to replace her before Election Day?

If Klobuchar picks wrong, could we see a repeat of the infamous 1978 “Minnesota Massacre” which cost the DFL control of the State?

They debate the risks of a surprise appointment, possible successors including Steve Simon, Thom Peterson and Kelly Morrison, and the one person Mike doesn't want to see named.

Then, Kyle and Mike break down Peggy Flanagan’s decisive primary victory over Angie Craig. Was it Flanagan’s energized ground game, Craig’s more moderate campaign, or a sign that Minnesota DFL voters are demanding a sharper progressive message?

Minnesota’s primary voters delivered a message on Tuesday — and now the battle for November begins.

Kyle Shiely is joined by political strategist Brian McDaniel to break down the biggest surprises from Minnesota’s primary election. On the Republican side, House Speaker Lisa Demuth defeated Mike Lindell, while Michelle Tafoya topped Royce White. Are these encouraging signs for a GOP party that hasn't won statewide in almost two decades?

But the biggest story may have come from Democrats, where Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan defeated 2nd District Congresswoman Angie Craig in a closely watched contest. Flanagan’s strength on the campaign trail and ability to connect directly with voters made the difference.

Plus we dig into what comes next: how Demuth can distinguish herself from Amy Klobuchar, why local issues could decide key races, and the challenge Republicans face trying to compete in a state where Democratic voters continue to turn out in force.

What did Minnesota voters tell us and what does it mean for November? Find out in this episode!

A political firestorm is erupting at St. Paul City Hall. Kyle Shiely and Axios Twin Cities reporter Kyle Stokes examine Police Chief Axel Henry’s explosive allegations that Mayor Kaohly Her fostered a sexualized work environment—and why the controversy is adding to growing questions about her leadership.

They also break down the fallout from Her’s decision to close the Pig’s Eye homeless encampment, including a tense, leaked recorded meeting with state lawmakers and stakeholders that exposed deep frustration, a dismissive tone and little room for negotiation.

Stokes recounts what he observed at the encampment during the closure and the growing concerns about what comes next for displaced residents facing limited shelter options and a long wait for permanent housing.

Minnesota’s August 11 primary is a week away, and there are big surprises on both sides of the aisle heading into next week that will have major ramifications on the general election in November.

On the Republican side, Mike Lindell enters the race with unmatched name recognition, but questions remain about the professionalism of his campaign and the fallout from his controversial amnesty proposal. Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth and businessman Kendall Qualls are trying to close the gap, but will Demuth's decision to pass up the high-profile debate on Almanac haunt her?

Meanwhile, the Democratic contest pits Second District Congresswoman Angie Craig against Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan in a defining battle between the party’s centrist and progressive wings. Will the allegations of fraud and mismanagement become a major liability for Flanagan and the DFL if she wins next week, or will all be forgotten?

North Star Daily host Kyle Shiely is joined by political strategist Michael Brodkorb to break down the leading candidates, campaign controversies, and political dynamics that will determine who advances.