The U.S. Senate ascension of Tina Smith begins a year of campaigning in Minnesota and critical contests in other states. Hear the "Playing Politics" analysis from WCCO Radio's Chad Hartman and the Star Tribune Editorial Board's John Rash and Lori Sturdevant.

Next year's elections will be consequential for both Washington and St. Paul. Hear the "Playing Politics" analysis from WCCO Radio's Chad Hartman and the Star Tribune Editorial Board's John Rash and D.J. Tice.

The ascension of senators in Minnesota and Alabama will have immediate impact in Washington. Hear the "Playing Politics" analysis from WCCO Radio's Chad Hartman and the Star Tribune Editorial Board's John Rash and D.J. Tice.

Several Democratic senators called on their colleague Al Franken to resign in response to escalating allegations of sexual harassment. Hear the "Playing Politics" analysis from WCCO Radio's Chad Hartman and the Star Tribune Editorial Board's John Rash and Patricia Lopez.

The latest ballistic missile test is the latest governing test for President Donald Trump and other world leaders. Hear the "Playing Politics" analysis from WCCO Radio's Chad Hartman and the Star Tribune Editorial Board's John Rash and Patricia Lopez.

The national sex harassment story hit home this week. Hear the "Playing Politics" analysis from WCCO Radio's Chad Hartman and the Star Tribune Editorial Board's John Rash and D.J. Tice.

Allegations against Roy Moore in Alabama and complaints about two Minnesota legislators lead to calls for reform. Hear the "Playing Politics" analysis from WCCO Radio's Chad Hartman and the Star Tribune Editorial Board's John Rash and Patricia Lopez.

Youth will be served as Jacob Frey and Melvin Carter are chosen by Minneapolis and St. Paul voters. Hear the "Playing Politics" analysis from WCCO Radio's Chad Hartman and the Star Tribune Editorial Board's John Rash and Patricia Lopez.