4 Things To Know from WCCO

Thursday, March 26 — St. Paul is preparing for what could be its largest protest in years, with organizers expecting more than 100,000 people at a “No Kings” rally this weekend. City leaders are planning major road closures and a coordinated safety response as crowds gather and march to the Capitol.
Today at the State Capitol, lawmakers take aim at social media companies, talking through a bill that would require age verification, parental consent for younger users, and limits on so-called addictive features. We hear from one Minnesota student on how he says social media has harmed him and other peers.
Also, two Minnesota travelers are back home after being stranded in Dubai during escalating conflict in the Middle East, sharing what it took to finally make it back safely.
Plus, a public visitation for Jessie Piece and her three kids, all tragically killed in a house fire, will happen this weekend. We'll tell you how you can honor their memories.
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Wednesday, March 25 — For the first time, we hear from the husband of a Minnesota Army Reservist killed in an Iranian drone strike overseas. He shares the moment he learned of the tragedy, and how he’s remembering his wife.
At the Minnesota Capitol, senators discuss a rule change that would allow babies on the Senate floor, including breastfeeding, following a recent controversy that sparked national attention.
Lawmakers and grocery workers are also sounding the alarm on so-called “surveillance pricing,” as some retailers move to electronic price tags that can change in real time. Critics warn it could drive up costs and impact jobs, but not everyone at the Capitol agrees.
Plus, the Minnesota Vikings make a major bid to bring one of the NFL’s biggest events to Minneapolis, with hopes of a major economic boost.
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Tuesday, March 24 — Minnesota is suing the Trump administration, accusing federal agencies of withholding key evidence in three Minneapolis shootings. State leaders say the lack of transparency has blocked their ability to investigate and pursue justice.

At the state capitol, a long-stalled effort to crack down on fraud is gaining new momentum. Lawmakers are moving forward with a plan to create an independent watchdog agency, but not without ongoing concerns from both sides of the aisle.

Minnesota is one of several states that honor Cesar Chavez Day next Tuesday – on his birthday.
But in wake of new allegations, lawmakers are fast tracking an effort to undo that. We have an update from the Capitol.

And in our Bright Spot, NASA is setting its sights on the moon, unveiling an ambitious plan to build a permanent base and reestablish a sustained human presence in space.

Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.

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Monday, March 23 — A government funding stand-off is creating major disruptions at airports nationwide, with TSA agents working without pay and long security lines stretching for hours. Now, a new move to deploy ICE agents at some airports is raising fresh concerns among travelers.

The Minnesota hockey community is mourning the loss of a beloved writer and mother, Jessi Pierce, and her three children after a devastating house fire. Tributes are pouring in as investigators continue searching for answers.

A young boy in the Annunciation school shooting is being recognized for his extraordinary bravery. Now the boy is receiving a national “Young Hero” award.

And the Gopher women’s basketball team is dancing into the Sweet 16 for the first time in nearly two decades after a thrilling last-second victory.
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Friday, March 20 — A man accused of killing a mother and her 5-year-old son appeared in an Anoka County courtroom, where a judge set bail at $5 million and called his record one of the most dangerous she’s seen in decades. Prosecutors say the case involves a history of domestic violence, and family members believe the tragedy could have been prevented.

The son of a former Minnesota lawmaker is now facing a total of more than six decades behind bars. Derrick Thompson received additional federal prison time tied to fentanyl and firearm charges, on top of his state sentence for a 2023 crash that killed five young women.

A man accused of attacking Congresswoman Ilhan Omar at a town hall is now facing both federal and state charges. Investigators say he sprayed her with a liquid and had previously made violent threats.
And for the first time in nearly a decade, the University of Minnesota women’s basketball team is back in the NCAA tournament, with home court advantage as they tip off their March Madness run.

Plus, new legislation inspired by a chilling police impersonation case, a push to allow babies on the Minnesota Senate floor, a heated debate over a national voting bill, and why ranch dressing has officially claimed the top spot as America’s favorite condiment.

Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.

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Thursday, March 19 — A 5-year-old boy whose arrest sparked national outrage is now facing deportation. A judge has denied asylum for Liam Ramos and his father, months after that viral image of him in a bunny hat and Spider-Man backpack drew global attention. The family is appealing, as their attorney argues the emotional toll has been severe.
A Minnesota family prepares to say goodbye to one of the first Americans killed in Operation Epic Fury. Master Sergeant Nicole Amor was among those killed in a drone attack overseas, and loved ones are now honoring her life and service.
At the State Capitol, lawmakers are pushing for tougher penalties on people impersonating police officers. The proposal follows last summer’s deadly shooting involving a man posing as law enforcement and could soon move through committee.
And March Madness tips off, with fans across the country filling out brackets and watching the first-round games. We check in at a bar in Minneapolis' North Loop where fans are catching the action.
Plus, a deadly shooting in St. Paul, concerns over fast-tracked asylum cases for Somali immigrants, a scam alert targeting drivers, and a major pay raise for WNBA players.
Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.

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Wednesday, March 18 — A quiet North Metro community is reeling after a woman and young boy were shot and killed inside a Lexington home early this morning. Police say a massive, multi-agency manhunt led to the suspect’s arrest, as neighbors struggle to process the violence in their tight-knit town.

For the second straight day, school threats are disrupting districts across the metro. South St. Paul Public Schools shifted to e-learning after what police call a credible threat, leading to the arrest of a 29-year-old man. This follows similar closures Tuesday tied to threats investigators now say were not credible.

At the Capitol, lawmakers are digging into a growing financial crisis at Hennepin Healthcare. Officials warn of tens of millions in projected losses this year, and long-term deficits driven by insurance changes. Now urgent questions are being raised about how to sustain one of the state’s top trauma centers.

And a federal judge is allowing Temporary Protected Status for Somali immigrants to continue in the short term. But attorneys warn of a troubling surge in fast-tracked asylum cases they say could jeopardize due process.

Also, a lighthearted moment as Anthony Edwards hits the basketball court with former President Barack Obama.

Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.

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Tuesday, March 17 — Schools across the south metro are closed after multiple threatening voicemails overnight forced leaders in Rosemount, Apple Valley, and Eagan’s District 196 to cancel classes out of an abundance of caution. Police are now working to trace the source of the threats, calling the investigation ongoing as more than 30 school buildings remain shut down for the day.

A new state audit is raising concerns about fraud oversight in a program designed to help children with autism. Investigators say some complaints, including allegations of kickbacks, were closed without review, and are now urging Minnesota to update its definition of fraud as lawmakers push a broader package aimed at accountability and prevention.

At the Capitol, a new proposal could limit how license plate data is used by law enforcement and private companies, as privacy concerns grow over tracking technology. Supporters say stronger protections are needed, while others argue the tools are critical for public safety.

And funeral arrangements are now set for a Minnesota soldier killed in a drone attack overseas, as family, friends, and the community prepare to honor her life later this week.

Plus, a bill targeting so-called “ghost guns” is advancing, TSA workers face staffing shortages amid a government shutdown, and a group of Minnesota students stranded in California is asking for help getting home.
Also, volunteers step up to help neighbors dig out after the weekend snowstorm, and Metro Transit is offering free rides to help you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day safely.

Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.

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Monday, March 16 — Southern Minnesota is digging out after a powerful late-season snowstorm that shut down part of Interstate 35 for more than 20 hours near Albert Lea. State Patrol officials say troopers responded to 464 crashes statewide over the weekend, including 40 that caused injuries. More than 650 vehicles spun off the road and nearly 20 semis jackknifed as blowing and drifting snow made travel dangerous.
Cleanup is still underway across the Twin Cities, where both Minneapolis and St. Paul remain in snow emergencies. Dozens of plows are working to clear residential streets, but many drivers woke up to find their cars missing after violating emergency parking rules. As of Monday morning, hundreds of vehicles had already been towed between the two cities, with impound fees topping $200.
Meanwhile at MSP Airport, operations are slowly returning to normal after the storm caused hundreds of flight cancellations, stranding travelers during the busy spring break travel period. Airport officials say more than 3.3 million passengers are expected to pass through the airport between now and early April.
Plus, dozens of rescued dogs from an out-of-state puppy mill are now safe in the Twin Cities and beginning their recovery at the Animal Humane Society.
And Next Weather Meteorologist Lisa Meadows joins us to break down the storm and what comes next in the forecast.
Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.

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Friday, March 13 — Powerful winds knocked out power for more than 20,000 Xcel Energy customers across the Twin Cities overnight, and another round of winter weather is already on the way. Meteorologists say a new snowstorm is expected this weekend, and state leaders are preparing for possible impacts across Minnesota.

At the State Capitol, lawmakers heard emotional testimony during a hearing on several gun safety proposals, including a potential assault weapons ban and the creation of an office of gun violence prevention. One father spoke about losing his daughter in the Annunciation school shooting, urging lawmakers to act.

Meanwhile, a vigil in Minneapolis will honor the 180 people killed on the first day of the war with Iran, many of them children after an elementary school bombing. The conflict is also pushing gas prices higher here at home, with Minnesota prices rising 18 cents in the past week.

Despite the threat of snow, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are gearing up across the Twin Cities. Officials say extra staff will be on hand to help keep large crowds safe during parades and events this weekend.

And in our Bright Spot: why a Minnesota ER doctor is helping bring realism to the hit HBO Max medical drama “The Pitt.”

Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.

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