Rhetoric is hardening on all sides, and with every passing day the probability of a single bad decision — by a protester, federal agent or local authority — rises.
More from Guest Commentary
Opinion | Minnesotans seem to be done playing ‘Minnesota Nice’
We appear to be developing a new state ethos that was encapsulated by the mayor of Minneapolis’ recent use of the F-bomb to denounce ICE.
January 18, 2026
Paul Douglas: My eyes are wide open to Boundary Waters threats
Pending legislation would turn a federal “no” on mining in the Boundary Waters into a congressional “proceed.”
January 18, 2026
Opinion | White parents, are we doing enough?
Is there more can we do beyond sidewalk patrols, GoFundMe efforts and whistles to make sure our children’s day care teachers stay safe from ICE?
January 17, 2026
Opinion | It’s OK to change what you support
Let’s run through this at low stakes.
January 16, 2026
Opinion | The crisis of the dinner plate
Why nutrition science is losing public trust.
January 16, 2026
Opinion | Hospitals are no place for ICE enforcement
Medical centers have a role in helping to address federal agents’ presence, and protecting the safety of their patients.
January 16, 2026
Opinion | Why Greenland isn’t a Manhattan real estate deal
Yes, it has resources and strategic value. But it isn’t simply up for grabs.
January 15, 2026
Opinion | Fear is bad for business. Minnesota leaders can’t stay silent.
There are moments when silence itself begins to carry weight. Here’s a model for the message that ought to be sent.
January 15, 2026
Opinion | ICE is sowing chaos in Minnesota schools
The harm falls most heavily on immigrant students and families, but the damage extends to the state’s entire public education system.
January 15, 2026
Counterpoint | Tax increment financing is a tool of purpose, not peril
It’s easy to make arguments that trade in fear rather than fact. Here’s how TIF is actually used.
January 15, 2026
Opinion | Minnesota should deploy the National Guard so kids can safely attend school
Decades ago, the National Guard was called in to help desegregate schools in Arkansas. It could be used again today to stabilize schools amid fears about ICE enforcement.
January 14, 2026
Opinion | Trump has little to no leverage on oil
He’ll likely regret his promise to lower energy prices.
January 14, 2026
