Political

House Sending Trump Impeachment to Senate, Trial to Follow

WASHINGTON (AP) – The House has voted to send two articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump to the Senate. Delivery is set for a dramatic late-afternoon procession across the U.S. Capitol for only the third such trial in American history. Trump complained anew of a “hoax,” even as new details emerged about his political efforts in Ukraine. The move…

Governor Includes Shoreline Projects in Duluth in Latest Bonding Proposal

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Governor Tim Walz and Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan announced the final bonding packages Wednesday morning in their Local Jobs and Project Plan which includes funds for Duluth’s shoreline projects. The Local jobs and Project Plan includes The Public Safety and Asset Preservation package, an $857 million proposal, includes funding for armories, police stations, fire departments, and…

Pelosi Names Schiff, Nadler as Prosecutors for Trump Trial

WASHINGTON (AP) – House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has announced the House prosecutors for the Senate impeachment trial of President Donald Trump. They include Democrats Adam Schiff of California and Jerrold Nadler of New York, who led the House impeachment probe. Pelosi made the announcement Wednesday morning, hours before the House was expected to vote to send the articles of impeachment…

Trump’s Milwaukee Rally Kicks off Election Year in Wisconsin

MILWAUKEE (AP) – Some supporters of President Donald Trump lined up starting Monday night to make sure they would have a spot inside the Milwaukee arena where he hosts a rally Tuesday evening. Trump is making his first 2020 appearance in a state that’s a critical battleground in the race. He’s also counter-programming the Democratic presidential hopefuls’ debate in neighboring…

Ex-Prisoners Who Can Vote Sought for Wisconsin 2020 Election

MILWAUKEE (AP) – Community activists believe there are thousands of former prisoners across Wisconsin who have the right to vote but don’t know it. They say those people could be a factor next year in a state known for deciding elections by the narrowest of margins. So a statewide group of former prisoners is fanning out across Wisconsin in an…

US Announces New Sanctions on Iran After Missile Strikes

(AP Photo/Evan Vucci) WASHINGTON (AP) – The Trump administration on Friday announced a new wave of sanctions on Iran following this week’s missile strikes by the Islamic Republic on U.S. bases in Iraq. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the new sanctions will target eight senior Iranian officials involved in “destabilizing” activities in the Middle…

House Approves Measure to Restrain Trump’s Actions on Iran

WASHINGTON (AP) – Reigniting a constitutional debate over war powers, the Democratic-controlled House has approved a resolution asserting that President Donald Trump must seek approval from Congress before engaging in further military action against Iran. The war powers resolution is not binding on Trump and would not require his signature. But House Speaker Nancy Pelosi nonetheless insists it “has real…

In Case of Iranian Cyber Attack, How to Keep Your Data Secure

Officials say a cyber attack is possible, local expert shares tips on how to protect yourself.

DULUTH, Minn.- President Trump has said Iran appears to be standing down after their missile attack on U.S. bases in Iraq, but experts say they could hit us with a different type of attack. An FBI and Homeland Security Intelligence Bulletin sent to law enforcement nationwide said a cyber attack in retaliation is possible, due to Iran’s long history of…

Superior City Council Votes to Hold Advisory Referendum on Part-Time Mayor, City Administrator Change

Referendum scheduled for November 3rd

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Superior City Council voted to hold an advisory referendum for the voters to weigh in on whether the city should move to a part-time mayor and city administrator from just a full-time mayor that they have now. This after a consulting group, RW Management Group, recommended that, among other changes, Superior should move to a part-time…

Duluth City Councilors, Mayor Emily Larson Officially Sworn In

Three fresh faces to the council gave their remarks.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth’s newly elected City Councilors, and twice-elected Mayor Emily Larson were officially sworn in at the DECC Monday. All eyes were particularly on the three fresh new faces joining the council: Derek Medved, Janet Kennedy, and Roz Randorf. After songs from the Duluth Denfeld Maroon 16 Choir, Duluth’s new councilors took the oath and were sworn in. “…I…

Wisconsin Legislature Seeks to Kill Lawsuit on Voter Purge

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – The Republican-controlled Wisconsin Legislature is asking a federal court to dismiss a lawsuit that seeks to prevent the purging of up to 209,000 registered voters in the battleground state. The Legislature’s attorneys on Monday asked the court to at least put the lawsuit on hold while a separate case seeking to remove the voters works its…

Final Round of Mediation Scheduled Between Teamsters, St. Louis County

Two sides will return to negotiations next Friday.

DULUTH, Minn.- A final round of mediation has been scheduled between the Teamsters Local 320 Union representing plow operators and St. Louis County, by the state of Minnesota. According to a document from the Minnesota Bureau of Mediation Services, the mediation will begin next Friday January 10th at 10:00 am at the St. Louis County Courthouse in Duluth. After the…

Warren, Klobuchar End 2019 Lagging Top Rivals in Fundraising

WASHINGTON (AP) – Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren has announced raising $21.2 million for her presidential campaign in the final three months of last year. The total trails the amounts collected by the Democratic presidential primary’s three other front-runners: former Vice President Joe Biden with $22.7 million, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders with $34.5 million and former South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete…

Trump Plan to Curb Teen Vaping Exempts Some Flavors

WASHINGTON (AP) – U.S. health officials will ban most flavored e-cigarettes popular with underage teenagers. But the plan from the Trump administration includes major exceptions that benefit companies that make and sell e-cigarettes and adults who use the nicotine-emitting devices. The Food and Drug Administration said Thursday the policy won’t affect menthol or tobacco flavors. The policy also won’t affect…

Democrat Julián Castro Drops Out of 2020 Presidential Race

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) – Former Obama housing secretary Julián Castro is ending his run for president. Castro’s announcement Thursday comes after he failed to garner enough support or donations to make the recent Democratic presidential debates. The former San Antonio mayor languished around 1% in polls and lagged behind his 2020 rivals in fundraising. Castro was the only Latino candidate…

Existing Contract Ends for St. Louis County Public Works Employees, No Word on Bargaining Yet

The two sides will continue working under the same contract until a new one is reached, or until the Union decides to strike.

DULUTH, Minn.- Tuesday is the final day of the existing contract the St. Louis County Public Works employees have with the county. According to St. Louis County Officials, they haven’t received notice of the Teamsters Local 320 Union’s intent to strike, or any interest to return to the bargaining table. Both sides will continue working under the terms of the…

Trump to Counter Iowa Democratic Debate With Wisconsin Rally

WASHINGTON (AP) – President Donald Trump will hold a campaign rally in Wisconsin next month, countering a Democratic presidential debate set for the same night in Iowa. Trump’s campaign says the rally will be Jan. 14 at the UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena. It’s the same night that CNN and The Des Moines Register are sponsoring the first Democratic debate of 2020…

Dozens Turn Out to Celebrate Hanukkah at Miller Hill Mall

Chabad of Duluth lighting menorah for the second year in a row.

DULUTH, Minn.- For hundreds of years the miracle and sacrifices of the Macabees as they fought for their independence from the Greeks–is remembered across the world, and right at Miller Hill Mall, during Hanukah. A large crowd gathered, reciting prayers and songs as Rabbi Mendy Ross lights the giant menorah. A show of unity, after a tough year for the…

President Donald Trump Impeached by U.S. House on Two Charges

House impeaches President Trump on two charges, forcing Senate trial on whether to convict and remove him from office

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump was impeached by the U.S. House of Representatives Wednesday night, becoming only the third American chief executive to be formally charged under the Constitution’s ultimate remedy for high crimes and misdemeanors. The historic vote split along party lines, much the way it has divided the nation, over the charges that the 45th president abused…

Watch Live: House Starts Historic Session to Impeach Trump; GOP Stalls

WASHINGTON (AP) – The House has gaveled in for a historic session to impeach President Donald Trump. He faces charges he abused his power and obstructed Congress. Speaker Nancy Pelosi asked Democratic lawmakers to gather for what she calls a “solemn” session Wednesday. As soon as it opened, Republicans tried to halt the proceedings with a procedural vote. It was…

Protestors Rally in Duluth to Support Trump Impeachment

Protestors voiced disappointment with Republican Congressman Pete Stauber.

DULUTH, Minn.- As the House of Representatives is set to vote on President Trump’s impeachment Wednesday, some in Duluth voiced their support for his ouster. The “No One is Above the Law” Rally was one of the more than 500 protests planned in all fifty states Tuesday. According to organizers, they want to ensure Congress holds President Trump accountable for…

Rally Calls for Council Support to Pass Ban on Conversion Therapy

Council voted 8-0 with Councilor Jay Fosle opposed.

DULUTH, Minn.- Activists, city leaders, and other members of the LGBTQ Community gathered on the ground floor of City Hall for a rally asking the City Council to vote yes on a ban on Conversion Therapy. The council passed the ban 8-0, with Councilor Jay Fosle absent. “Will encourage our state legislature to pass a statewide ban in 2020,” said…

House Panel Approves 2 Trump Impeachment Charges

(AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, Pool) WASHINGTON (AP) – The House Judiciary Committee has approved two articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump. The charges now go to the full House for an expected vote next week. The abuse of power charge stems from Trump’s July phone call with the Ukraine president pressuring him to announce an investigation of Democrats as he…

Democrats Unveil Trump Impeachment Charges

WASHINGTON (AP) – Democrats have announced two articles of impeachment charging President Donald Trump with abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. The charges announced Tuesday stem from Trump’s pressure on Ukraine to announce investigations of his political rivals as he withheld aid to the country. Earlier Tuesday, Trump tweeted that he did “NOTHING” wrong and that impeaching a president…

Duluth Council Approves $235 Thousand to Spirit Mountain

Councilors voice disappointment that resort is in this state.

DULUTH, Minn.- The fate of Spirit Mountain rested in the hands of the Duluth City Council, who voted to grant $235,000 to the resort, to make up for losses after a Thanksgiving blizzard cancelled this past Amsoil Snocross. While the council approved the resolution 8-1 with Jay Fosle opposed, it was not without a tone of disappointment that the resort…

Duluth Youth Strike for Climate Change

Students strike with youth around the world to demand action on Climate Change.

DULUTH, Minn.- Young people in Duluth rallied with youth around the world holding a strike to raise awareness of Climate Change. Students with Duluth Youth Climate Strike posted up in front of City Hall to demand legislative action, and draw attention to the issue. They said it’s important that youth continue to stand up, as climate scientists have said there…

House Will Draft Trump Impeachment Articles, Pelosi Says

WASHINGTON (AP) – House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced that the House is moving forward to draft articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump. Pelosi delivered the historic announcement Thursday from the speaker’s offices at the Capitol. Trump, meanwhile, tweeted that if Democrats are going to impeach him, he wants them to “do it now, fast”‘ so he can get on…

President Trump Makes Surprise Thanksgiving Visit to U.S. Troops in Afghanistan

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (AP) – President Donald Trump paid a surprise Thanksgiving visit to Afghanistan, where he announced the U.S. and Taliban have been engaged in ongoing peace talks and said he believes the Taliban want a cease-fire. In his first trip to the site of America’s longest war, Trump arrived at Bagram Air Field shortly after 8:30 p.m….

Duluth Council Passes Plastic Bag Fee, Two Councilors Opposed

City has until April to decide enforcement.

DULUTH, Minn.- After discussing the issue of plastic bags for almost four years and  debating the Five Cent Bag Fee ordinance for two months, Duluth City Council has passed the ordinance 6-2, with Councilors Forsman and Van Nett opposed. As per usual with the meetings over the past couple months, many members of the public spoke out on the issue,…

Rep. Loeffler Remembered as Fierce Advocate for Constituents

Loeffler Was First Elected to the House in 2004

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Minnesota’s House speaker says Rep. Diane Loeffler has died after battling cancer. Speaker Melissa Hortman says Loeffler died Saturday at age 66. Hortman calls Loeffler a “powerhouse” whose absence will be a huge loss for the Legislature. Loeffler is a DFLer who was first elected to the House in 2004. She was a lifelong resident…

Watch Live: US Diplomat Arrives for Impeachment Hearing

WASHINGTON (AP) 10:20 a.m. – Former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch says she was told last April by a State Department official to return to the United States “on the next plane” because of concerns “up the street” – a phrase she understood to mean the White House. Yovanovitch said she received the call at 1 a.m. from an…

WATCH LIVE: Trump Impeachment Hearings

WASHINGTON (AP) 3 p.m. – The two veteran diplomats testifying in the House impeachment hearing are denying President Donald Trump’s accusation that they adamantly oppose him. Shortly before Wednesday’s House Intelligence Committee hearing began, Trump tweeted, “NEVER TRUMPERS!” He mentioned no evidence. California Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell asked both men if Trump’s claim was true. State Department official George Kent…

Study Presented to Superior City Council Recommending Part-Time Mayor, Full-Time Administrator

Study also recommends major software investment and some staffing changes

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A study was presented to the Superior City Council about how the city can become more efficient and effective. The study focused on things like staffing, workflow, and management structure. One recommendation calls for the mayor’s position to be reduced to part-time while hiring a full-time city administrator. According to RW Management Group who conducted the study,…

Duffy Takes Job as Lobbyist After Resigning From Congress

Duffy Resigned in September

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Sean Duffy has taken a job for a Washington lobbying firm after resigning from Congress two months ago, saying he wanted to spend more time with his family and newborn who has a heart defect and Down syndrome. BGR Group announced Tuesday that the Republican Duffy would be working for the firm as a senior counsel…

Study Recommends Part-Time Mayor, Full-Time Administrator For City of Superior

Mayor Jim Paine: Recommendation Holds No Weight, More Pressing Issues To Focus On Like Software Investments

SUPERIOR, Wis. — A new study has been released about the city of Superior’s operations at city hall and how it can improve to be more efficient and effective. The study was initiated by Mayor Jim Paine and the city council, and conducted by RW Management Group, Inc. The consultant group assessed things like current staffing, workflow, workloads and management…

Evers Promotes Deputy After Senate Fires Agriculture Leader

(photo: DATCP) MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Gov. Tony Evers has promoted the deputy agriculture secretary after the Wisconsin Senate fired the head of the agency earlier this week. Evers’ spokeswoman Melissa Baldauff on Thursday said that Randy Romanski will take over as interim secretary of the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. Romanski has worked for a variety of…

Wisconsin Assembly to Attempt First Overrides in 11 Years

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – The Wisconsin Assembly plans to attempt the first veto overrides in 11 years, targeting three partial budget vetoes by Gov. Tony Evers. The Republican-controlled Assembly plans to vote on the veto overrides on Thursday. Republicans don’t have enough votes to pass them without Democratic support. Democratic Minority Leader Gordon Hintz says no Democrats will support the…

Northland General Election Results

Below are the up to date results to the key races in Tuesday’s Northland General Elections Duluth Mayor Emily Larson (I) – 13,340  63.3% David Nolle – 7,509  35.8% Duluth Council Member at Large (Elect 2) Arik Forsman (I) – 8,972  25.8% Noah Hobbs (I) – 8,717  25.0% Mike Mayou – 7,869 22.6% Derek Medved – 9,068  26.2% Duluth Council…

Medved, Forsman Elected Duluth Councilors-At-Large

The two beat out Hobbs and Mayou.

DULUTH, Minn.- In a close race, newcomer Derek Medved and incumbent Arik Forsman have been elected Duluth Councilors At Large. Medved clinched the vote at 9,068 votes, and Forsman at 8,972 votes. They beat out Noah Hobbs at 8,717 votes, and Mike Mayou at 7,869. 24-year-old Medved owns the Gary Milkhouse and Korner Store convenience stores. It is his first…

Anderson, Randorf, Kennedy Elected to Duluth City Council

Districts 3 & 5 get new councilors, District 1 gets incumbent Anderson.

DULUTH, Minn.- On election night, Gary Anderson was voted First District City Councilor, while Roz Randorf was voted Third District, and Janet Kennedy voted Fifth District Councilors. Anderson won 3,630 votes to Becky Hall’s 2,349. Randorf won 1,637 to Theresa O’Halloran Johnson’s 1,356. Kennedy won 2,125 to Jeanne Koneczny’s 1,930 votes. Anderson has been Councilor for the First District for…

Oswald, Kirby, Sandholm Elected Duluth School Board Members

Alanna Oswald, and David Kirby were re-elected while newcomer Paul Sandholm picked up Election night wins

DULUTH, Minn.- Alanna Oswald and David Kirby have been re-elected on the Duluth School Board, while Paul Sandholm also was victorious Tuesday night. In the At-Large race, Oswald received 10,528 votes or 54.4% defeated challenger John Schwetman who picked up 8,667 votes or 44.8%. Over in District 2, David Kirby was re-elected after knocking off Harry Welty. Kirby would receive…

Wisconsin Senate Fires Agriculture Secretary

Senate Voted 19-14 to Reject Pfaff's Confirmation

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – The Wisconsin Senate has voted to fire the state agriculture secretary, who was appointed by Democratic Gov. Tony Evers. Evers watched the vote Tuesday from the floor of the Senate, a highly unusual appearance by the governor during legislative debate. The move to oust Brad Pfaff is the latest skirmish in a series of battles between…

Sanders Attempts to Recapture 2016 Political Energy

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Sen. Bernie Sanders attempted to recapture the political energy at a Minneapolis rally that led to his runaway victory in the Minnesota DFL presidential caucus four years ago. He appeared Sunday at the University of Minnesota with Rep. Ilhan Omar, who has endorsed the 78-year-old Vermont senator and who broke from the rest of the state’s Democratic…

Democrat Beto O’Rourke Has Announced He’s Dropping His 2020 Presidential Bid

WASHINGTON (AP) – Democrat Beto O’Rourke has announced he’s dropping his 2020 presidential bid. O’Rourke tweeted Friday that his campaign “has always been about seeing clearly, speaking honestly, and acting decisively.” He writes, “In that spirit: I am announcing that my service to the country will not be as a candidate or as the nominee.” O’Rourke had been struggling to…

Trump Only Republican on Presidential Primary Ballot in MN

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – President Donald Trump isn’t the only Republican candidate running in the presidential primary, but he’ll be the only choice on the ballot in Minnesota. The Republican Party of Minnesota has informed the state Secretary of State that Trump will be the only name listed on the 2020 Republican primary ballot. The Star Tribune reports three other Republican…