Ex-U.S. ambassador arrested, accused of serving as agent of Cuba
Manuel Rocha, who served as U.S. ambassador to Bolivia, has been arrested in a long-running FBI investigation. He is accused of serving as an agent of Cuba.
Marijuana
MDH approves new method for medical cannabis use
The Minnesota Department of Health approved dry herb vaporization, which provides a fast-acting alternative to smoking.
University of Minnesota launches state's first research center for cannabis
As Minnesota grows a new regulated marketplace for marijuana, experts at the University of Minnesota are digging into how it affects your health and safety.
UMN School of Public Health announces state’s first cannabis research center
A new research center at the University of Minnesota will be looking into the impact of adult-use cannabis legalization on the state.
University of Minnesota launches state's first research center for cannabis
A new research center at the University of Minnesota will be looking into the impact of adult-use cannabis legalization on the state.
As new industry takes off, dozens participate in cannabis business networking event for women entrepreneurs
Seventy women attended a networking event for Minnesota's newest industry: cannabis.
Olmsted County announces ban on smoking, vaping cannabis in public
A southern Minnesota county has become the latest to ban smoking and vaping cannabis in public places.
Questions arise over millions in public investment in Iron Range cannabis company
A new proposed cannabis facility taking shape in the Iron Range is now raising some concerns over funding.
Minnesota's new THC regulations: What enforcement is doing and common issues
A red light for some green products: Minnesota regulators are finding several issues with some THC products.
Minnesota looking to hire more inspectors for THC products, hemp shops
As Minnesota transitions to fully legalizing marijuana, the responsibility for enforcing cannabis laws has shifted from the Board of Pharmacy to the Department of Health.
How officials are enforcing Minnesota's new THC regulations
A red light for some green products — state regulators are finding several issues with THC merchandise.
Some Minnesotans heading back to school to learn about marijuana
A nonprofit is offering courses on how to grow weed at home and training on starting businesses.
Minnesota Cannabis College sees surge in enrollment after legalization
Some Minnesotans are going back to the classroom to learn about cannabis, after the state legalized recreational weed this summer.
Following cannabis director controversy, Walz vows to pick a new leader with "regulator" experience
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz on Tuesday said he will focus on hiring a person with regulatory experience to lead the new state cannabis office after his previous pick stepped down amid controversy.
Brooklyn Park mayor has aspirations to improve racial equity in cannabis industry
The mayor of one of Minnesota's largest cities is getting involved in the marijuana industry.
Director controversy, legal challenge make for rocky start for Minnesota's Office of Cannabis Management
The agency's new director withdrew after a day over allegations her company had sold cannabis products that are not legal. There is also a legal effort to declare cannabis sales legal now because of an historic clause in the state constitution.
Eric Rech of Marijuana for Minnesota on legal challenge to state law
Some people think a constitutional amendment allows them to sell homegrown weed right now without a state license. Eric Rech with Marijuana for Minnesota is one of those people, and he tells us why.
Erin DuPree named Director of the Office of Cannabis Management
Minnesotans now know who will lead the agency overseeing the state's nascent legal marijuana market
Extended: Erin DuPree named director of Office of Cannabis Management
Starting in October, Minnesota will have a new state leader in charge of the regulation of cannabis.
Erin DuPree named Minnesota's first director of the Office of Cannabis Management
Minnesotans now know who will lead the agency overseeing the state's nascent legal marijuana market.
Marijuana odor alone is not reason enough for vehicles to be searched, SCOMN affirms
Minnesota's highest court says the smell of weed is not enough reason for police to search your car.
Marijuana odor alone is not reason enough for vehicles to be searched, Minnesota Supreme Court affirms
The Minnesota Supreme Court has affirmed that marijuana odor is not enough reason to search a vehicle under the automobile exception to the warrant requirement.
St. Paul residents weigh in on potential ban on smoking in public
Dozens of people showed up to testify in person and dozens more submitted written comments shared at a public hearing Wednesday.
St. Paul considers limitations on smoking marijuana outdoors
Just weeks after it became legal in Minnesota, St. Paul is considering a proposed ordinance that would limit where you can smoke cannabis in public.
St. Paul considers ban on smoking weed in public weed
Just weeks after Minnesota legalized marijuana, one of the Twin Cities could snuff out smoking pot out in the open.
CBS News Minnesota — Watch Live 24/7
Latest News
Tuesday is special election day for former Rep. Ruth Richardson's seat in District 52B
State Rep. Ruth Richardson abruptly resigned in September to take a job in North Dakota, leaving District 52B's seat open.
State Emblems Redesign Commission meeting Tuesday to review Minnesota flag, seal finalists
Tuesday morning, the final designs for the Minnesota flag and seal will be under scrutiny.
Quiet Tuesday before warming trend begins Wednesday
Tuesday's going to be a quiet day, weather-wise, but a big warm-up will arrive on Wednesday.
Which four Republicans will be on stage for the fourth presidential debate?
Four candidates have qualified for the fourth Republican presidential debate.
House explodes in Virginia as police try to execute search warrant
A house exploded in Arlington, Virginia, as police tried to execute a search warrant following reports of a suspect firing a flare gun.
Twin Cities News
More Twin Cities News
Tuesday is special election day for former Rep. Ruth Richardson's seat in District 52B
State Rep. Ruth Richardson abruptly resigned in September to take a job in North Dakota, leaving District 52B's seat open.
Minnesota hockey community weighs in after IIHF mandates neck guards
The Olympics and World Championships will now require neck guards after the shocking death of Adam Johnson.
City of Minneapolis would clear sidewalks for some residents through proposed pilot program
The City of Minneapolis is looking at doing something many people have wanted for years: clearing snow and ice from the sidewalks.
Director of Minnesota's Office of Medical Cannabis resigns after 5 years
The director of Minnesota's Office of Medical Cannabis is stepping down after five years, the Minnesota Department of Health announced Monday.
Woman sentenced to 3 years in prison for throwing puppy from car during police chase
Raylean Gurneau was convicted in August of felony overwork/mistreatment of animals and placing a fake 911 call.
Greater Minnesota News
More Greater Minnesota News
Minnesota, Wisconsin wildlife officials capture 100s of invasive carp in Mississippi River
Wildlife officials have captured hundreds of invasive carp from the Mississippi River near Trempealeau, Wisconsin.
Minnesota, Wisconsin governors request over $1B in federal funds to replace Blatnik Bridge in Duluth
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers say a critical bridge between the bordering states on Lake Superior needs to be replaced.
Lake Superior, known for icy waters, one of the fastest warming lakes in the world
Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world — a sea known for its pristine cold water. But in a warming world, that's changing.
November was the second driest on record, according to the data
Data shows that our November was the second driest on record for the Twin Cities.
Jack Loso, 19, killed in landslide at Minneopa State Park, sheriff says
A 19-year-old man was killed in a landslide Saturday night at Minneopa State Park Falls.
Wisconsin News
More Wisconsin News
Republican leaders of Wisconsin Legislature at odds over withholding university pay raises
The Republican head of the Wisconsin Senate says he wants to see pay raises approved for Universities of Wisconsin employees.
Remains found in Indiana in 1982 identified as those of Wisconsin woman who vanished at age 20
Authorities say human remains found in rural Indiana in 1982 have been identified as those of a Wisconsin woman who was 20 when she vanished more than four decades ago.
Minnesota, Wisconsin wildlife officials capture 100s of invasive carp in Mississippi River
Wildlife officials have captured hundreds of invasive carp from the Mississippi River near Trempealeau, Wisconsin.
Charges: Don Springer attacked woman and K-9, had 2 standoffs in 4-day span in Wisconsin
The sheriff's office says Springer allegedly "punched and choked" a K-9 before he was physically restrained and arrested on Nov. 29.
iPhone notification leads authorities to man killed in Wisconsin crash, sheriff says
Authorities in western Wisconsin say an iPhone crash notification led them to a deceased driver late Thursday night.
Community Journalism
More Community Journalism
Savannah Manzel, Lake Elmo 13-year-old, makes big debut at Radio City Music Hall's "Nutcracker"
When she's not in school, Manzel is at Larkin Dance Studio in Maplewood making herself a better, stronger dancer. That discipline paid off in a big way when she landed the role of a lifetime.
Minnesota hockey community honors teen who died in Washington County crash
A memorial of hockey sticks and flowers marks the spot of the crash in rural Washington County that would eventually take the life of 16-year-old Samson Walters.
Police need help finding missing adult in Bloomington
The Bloomington Police Department are asking for help finding a missing adult
Prep academy aims to help families of soldiers heading to Middle East
Soldiers expecting to deploy soon get an introduction to what they can expect
Chance north Minneapolis encounter leads to new family, outlook on life for young boy
Tyrone Fischer has a new mom and a new outlook on life after a chance encounter five years ago in a street in north Minneapolis.
Politics
More Politics
Tuesday is special election day for former Rep. Ruth Richardson's seat in District 52B
State Rep. Ruth Richardson abruptly resigned in September to take a job in North Dakota, leaving District 52B's seat open.
Tuesday is special election day for former Rep. Ruth Richardson's seat in District 52B
State Rep. Ruth Richardson abruptly resigned in September to take a job in North Dakota, leaving District 52B's seat open.
Which four Republicans will be on stage for the fourth presidential debate?
Four candidates have qualified for the fourth Republican presidential debate.
Director of Minnesota's Office of Medical Cannabis resigns after 5 years
The director of Minnesota's Office of Medical Cannabis is stepping down after five years, the Minnesota Department of Health announced Monday.
Republican leaders of Wisconsin Legislature at odds over withholding university pay raises
The Republican head of the Wisconsin Senate says he wants to see pay raises approved for Universities of Wisconsin employees.
Consumer News
More Consumer News
Metro Transit to enforce fare payment, issue $35 citations starting Monday
Starting Monday, Metro Transit will start issuing citations and fining people who have not paid their fare.
Large snow creature "IT" needs a name at Midtown Global Market
A large, smiling snow creature — which is not frightening at all — needs a name at the Midtown Global Market in Minneapolis.
Arboretum's AppleHouse embraces winter magic with Holiday Boutique
In November, the AppleHouse transforms into a cozy gift shop offering a variety of items, from unique gifts to locally produced goodies, toys, clothes and more.
Report: Inflation impacting Minnesotans more than national average
New numbers from the federal government show the average American needs nearly $11,500 in additional funds just to maintain the same standard of living they enjoyed in 2021.
This Nordic drive-thru in western Minnesota is a popular spot for lefse
We've all been through the coffee and fast-food drive-thrus, but they have nothing on this Evansville business. In this week's Finding Minnesota, John Lauritsen takes us to a drive-through that's as Nordic as it gets.
Crime News
More Crime News
Woman sentenced to 3 years in prison for throwing puppy from car during police chase
Raylean Gurneau was convicted in August of felony overwork/mistreatment of animals and placing a fake 911 call.
Remains found in Indiana in 1982 identified as those of Wisconsin woman who vanished at age 20
Authorities say human remains found in rural Indiana in 1982 have been identified as those of a Wisconsin woman who was 20 when she vanished more than four decades ago.
Despite Dinkytown double murder, safety leader says progress being made at U
Two 24-year-old men, Bryson Haskell and Jamartre Sanders, died from multiple gunshot wounds early Sunday inside a Dinkytown tobacco shop.
Charges: Don Springer attacked woman and K-9, had 2 standoffs in 4-day span in Wisconsin
The sheriff's office says Springer allegedly "punched and choked" a K-9 before he was physically restrained and arrested on Nov. 29.
Edina police say several people arrested after stolen vehicle pursuit
Police in Edina made several arrests Monday morning after a pursuit of suspects in a stolen vehicle ended in a crash.
Health News
More Health News
What does the appendix do and why are we fine without it?
Stephen Colbert is away from late-night TV following emergency surgery last week — the comedian's appendix burst. That made us wonder: What does the appendix do for our body? And why are we fine without it? Good Question. Jeff Wagner explains the mystery behind the tiny organ.
Children's Minnesota pull off double miracle for young twins with rare heart condition
Doctors diagnosed both girls with a rare condition — patent ductus arteriosus. They each had an open blood vessel that usually closes when a baby is born around the due date.
COVID levels rise by 50% in Minnesota compared to pre-Thanksgiving levels
New wastewater data from the University of Minnesota shows an uptick in COVID-19 cases statewide.
A look inside the United States' first-ever certified "Blue Zone" located in Minnesota
Living to 100 may seem like a major feat, but there are communities around the world where it's common — they're called "Blue Zones."
Diabetes drugs' major side effect, weight loss, drives demand
The ads for diabetes drugs are impossible to escape. Their side effect of major weight loss continues to make them surge in popularity. In Talking Points, Esme Murphy dives into the other side effects and the staggering out-of-pocket costs.
Entertainment News
More Entertainment News
Savannah Manzel, Lake Elmo 13-year-old, makes big debut at Radio City Music Hall's "Nutcracker"
When she's not in school, Manzel is at Larkin Dance Studio in Maplewood making herself a better, stronger dancer. That discipline paid off in a big way when she landed the role of a lifetime.
Beyoncé's 'Renaissance' is No. 1 at the box office with $21 million debut
Beyoncé ruled the box office this weekend with $21 million in North American ticket sales, according to estimates from AMC Theatres Sunday.
Shane MacGowan, longtime frontman of The Pogues, dies at 65
Singer-songwriter Shane MacGowan, the longtime front-man of The Pogues, died at the age of 65 surrounded by loved ones in Ireland, his family said.
Taylor Swift was Spotify's most-streamed artist in 2023
Taylor Swift was the most-streamed artist globally in 2023, according to Spotify Wrapped. Here's how you can find who you spent the most time with this year.
Sever's Holiday Light Show returns to Shakopee
A holiday tradition is once again shining brightly in Shakopee.
Sports News
More Sports News
Minnesota hockey community weighs in after IIHF mandates neck guards
The Olympics and World Championships will now require neck guards after the shocking death of Adam Johnson.
Heise, Stecklein anchoring Minnesota's PWHL team as training camp begins
For the first overall pick in this new Professional Women's Hockey League draft, there's an appreciation. Taylor Heise didn't have to face the grind that most women's pro hockey players did.
Moore, Augustus, McWilliams-Franklin headline 2024 Women's Basketball HOF Class
Former Minnesota Lynx and USA Basketball teammates Maya Moore and Seimone Augustus headline the 2024 Women's Basketball Hall of Fame class that was announced Thursday night.
Gophers will take on Bowling Green in Quick Lane Bowl
The Gophers will look to continue their bowl game winning streak under P.J. Fleck when they take on Bowling Green in the Quick Lane Bowl later this month.
St. Olaf men's soccer team wins NCAA Division III national championship
Casey McCloskey made the second goal of the game 68 seconds into overtime, winning the championship title for the team.
Talking Points
More Talking Points
Why are there no loons on Minnesota's new state flag finalists?
Thousands of people have weighed in with comments on the flag options and many of those comments are critical that a loon is not featured in any of the flag designs.
Why are there no loons on Minnesota's new state flag finalists?
By now you likely know that there at six finalists for the new Minnesota flag. The State Emblems Redesign Commission will meet this Tuesday to discuss the finalists and to possibly make revisions to the top six designs. That is the subject of Esme Murphy's Talking Points.
Diabetes drugs' major side effect, weight loss, drives demand
The ads for diabetes drugs are impossible to escape. Their side effect of major weight loss continues to make them surge in popularity. In Talking Points, Esme Murphy dives into the other side effects and the staggering out-of-pocket costs.
Talking Points preview: Weight loss driving demand for diabetes drugs
Esme Murphy explores how the out of pocket costs for these drugs is leaving some people broke.
Talking Points: Diabetes drugs' major side effect, weight loss, drives demand (part 3)
The ads for diabetes drugs are impossible to escape, as their side effect of major weight loss continues to make them surge in popularity. Earlier this year, WCCO spoke with Laura Collins. Her insurance covered her Wegovy from the start. She is maintaining her 100-pound weight loss, and she isn't going broke doing it.
Finding Minnesota
More Finding Minnesota
This Nordic drive-thru in western Minnesota is a popular spot for lefse
We've all been through the coffee and fast-food drive-thrus, but they have nothing on this Evansville business. In this week's Finding Minnesota, John Lauritsen takes us to a drive-through that's as Nordic as it gets.
"The Mary Tyler Moore Show" continues to leave its mark on Minneapolis half a century later
In this week's Finding Minnesota, John Lauritsen shows us how an iconic show from the 70s put Minneapolis on the map, and why this year marks a special anniversary in the show's history.
Finding Minnesota: For 4 decades, Dennis Foy has painted commemorative Vikings game footballs
For nearly 40 years, Dennis Foy has been on the receiving end of footballs from the Vikings. They send him dozens each season along with emails about whose name they want on the game ball, and what they want it to say.
Jasper man's old-school windmill collection draws visitors from across the country
In 1999, Terry Rodman built a windmill for his wife, from scratch. Then, to balance things out, he put up a farm windmill — and people around Jasper, took notice.
Mother-daughter duo turns 98-year-old Mobil station into Airbnb
Peterson, Minnesota in Fillmore County is known for bluffs, bike trails and a nearly 100-year-old gas station that now serves a new purpose.
Good Question
More Good Question
What does the appendix do and why are we fine without it?
Stephen Colbert is away from late-night TV following emergency surgery last week — the comedian's appendix burst. That made us wonder: What does the appendix do for our body? And why are we fine without it? Good Question. Jeff Wagner explains the mystery behind the tiny organ.
Is a dessert bar a cookie?
Heather Brown confers with some culinary experts to find the definitive answer!
Could November's minimal snow total impact December's output? Good Question.
The fluffy four-tenths of an inch that fell last Saturday kept the Twin Cities from notching a record of a snowless November.
Why do we eat turkey on Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving gained popularity in the 1800s, eventually becoming a national holiday with cookbooks and newspapers touting recipes.
What is radon? And how does it get into our homes?
A potentially life-threatening gas enters Minnesota homes at higher rates than other states.
Latest Galleries
More Latest Galleries
Northern Lights in Minnesota: Dec. 1, 2023
For two nights in a row, the northern lights danced overhead in Minnesota and western Wisconsin, and WCCO viewers sent in their best photos.
Northern Lights over Minnesota and Wisconsin: Nov. 30, 2023
Some WCCO viewers shared marvelous photos of Thursday night's northern lights.
Items sold at "The Fashion of Prince" auction
Here's a look at some of the hot items on auction at "The Fashion of Prince."
Minnesota state flag and seal submissions: The good, the bad, and the loony
Minnesota leaders tasked the state's residents with helping to reimagine the state's flag and emblem. The citizenry has delivered, with designs running the gamut of reverent to just plain ridiculous.
Halloween NICU Babies
Lots of people will be out in costumes on Tuesday night, but these babies who are dressed up in the NICU might be the cutest of them all.
Weather
More Weather
Weather
NEXT Weather: 6:30 a.m. report from Dec. 5, 2023
Tuesday's going to be a quiet day, weather-wise, but a big warm-up will arrive on Wednesday.
What is Next Weather?
In Minnesota, weather can be all over the place. Here at WCCO, we want to give you what you need to prepare for what's happening next.
Quiet Tuesday before warming trend begins Wednesday
Tuesday's going to be a quiet day, weather-wise, but a big warm-up will arrive on Wednesday.
NEXT Weather: 4:30 a.m. report from Dec. 5, 2023
Tuesday looks mostly quiet, but a big warm-up begins on Wednesday.
NEXT Weather: 10 p.m. report from Dec. 4, 2023
WCCO meteorologist Lisa Meadows says Tuesday will bring sunnier skies, but no major changes in the temperature.
Latest Videos
More Latest Videos
Latest Videos
NEXT Weather: 6:30 a.m. report from Dec. 5, 2023
Tuesday's going to be a quiet day, weather-wise, but a big warm-up will arrive on Wednesday.
Tuesday is special election day for former Rep. Ruth Richardson's seat in District 52B
State Rep. Ruth Richardson abruptly resigned in September to take a job in North Dakota, leaving District 52B's seat open.
North Minneapolis art show highlights work from artists 50 and up
A special art show this weekend is inspired by a life well-lived.
Minnesota state flag, seal finalists under review Tuesday
Tuesday morning, the final designs for the Minnesota flag and seal will be under scrutiny.
Morning headlines from Dec. 5, 2023
A.J. Hilton and Shayla Reaves have the latest headlines.