Minnesota Now: July 1, 2026

Fourteen Minnesotans facing federal charges for anti-ICE actions were due in court Wednesday afternoon. Supporters protested the charges ahead of the court appearance. MPR News reporter Sarah Thamer shared the latest on the case. Starting Wednesday, $90 million will go to Minnesota counties to fund upgrades to computer systems that help provide social services. Plus, a new hotline is giving people quicker access to lawyers after arrest. Chief meteorologist Ben Cathey gave a Fourth of July holiday weather forecast. And you may have seen creeping bellflower in your yard. It's a beautiful, but invasive weed. One Minnesota chef controls the plant in his garden by cooking with it. The Minnesota Music Minute was “Joseph” by Bad Bad Hats and “Minneapolis Horn Power” by Scott Agster was the Song of the Day.