Proximity to pain is the through-line. Those who don’t have it have been too willing to marginalize it.
More from Guest Commentary
Opinion | Minnesota needs an Equal Rights Amendment now more than ever
Laws can be changed by future legislatures or courts. A state constitutional amendment would ensure that rights will last.
February 20, 2026
Opinion | ICE created a public health crisis. Minnesota must act as it did during COVID.
The state should employ similar relief measures as it did during the pandemic, like an eviction moratorium and expanded unemployment.
February 20, 2026
Opinion | Has the U lost its way?
The U was supposed to be a “people’s university.” But it’s gotten increasingly selective, expensive and administratively top-heavy.
February 19, 2026
Opinion | HCMC is a statewide resource that needs statewide support
Here are some of the many reasons the financial crisis the facility faces is not just a Hennepin County problem.
February 19, 2026
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Opinion | Even as ICE pulls back, legal pressures on families are ramping up
Here’s what I’m seeing as someone working closely with immigrant and refugee families.
February 19, 2026
Opinion | This year, Ramadan in Minnesota feels different
Fear in the Muslim community hasn’t fully eased after the announcement of an ICE drawdown.
February 18, 2026
Counterpoint | Minnesota failure, Mississippi success in education? Needs more context.
A recent commentary promoting education savings accounts did some cherry-picking.
February 18, 2026
Opinion | Yes, we must stop fraud, but without breaking human services
Here are some examples of flawed proposals so far — and, alternatively, ways to protect both dollars and dignity.
February 17, 2026
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Opinion | ICE surge costs should revive Minneapolis police staffing concerns
The depletion of the department was and still is unsustainable.
February 16, 2026
Opinion | Constitutional rights are under assault in Minnesota
Despite claims from the right, there is no insurrection occurring. The state’s response has been peaceful, relying on the Constitution, the laws and the courts.
February 16, 2026
Opinion | Worried about ICE’s impact on school funding? Let’s focus on education savings accounts instead.
Now enacted in nearly 20 states, ESAs offer children and parents better opportunities and choices.
February 15, 2026
Opinion | More University of Minnesota students should provide testimony at the State Capitol
It’s rare to see young people there.
February 15, 2026
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