Tensions Rise in Minneapolis Amid Federal Agent Deployment

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Key Updates for the Day

U.S. government strengthens its presence in Minnesota amid ongoing protests. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has taken action by deploying more federal agents to Minnesota. This response follows the uproar over an ICE agent’s fatal shooting of Renee Good in Minneapolis. The incident has sparked national protests, prompting some officials, like U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar, to challenge the increase in federal agents and call for a thorough investigation of the incident. In a new policy shift, elected officials must now give a seven-day notice before visiting ICE facilities in Minneapolis.

• 🎧 Minneapolis witnesses heightened unrest, according to NPR’s Jason DeRose on Up First. The city is abuzz with sirens and helicopters, intensifying community fears, yet there is a strong sense of community care. Hundreds gathered at a local church near the shooting site and marched to support one another. During this march, they sang and held silence at locations where ICE detained residents. DeRose will be observing the roles of the additional federal agents and the local response to ICE’s presence.

President Trump remains open to striking Iran despite their request for dialogue. Iran faces its most significant protests in years, challenging its theocratic regime. The government’s harsh response has resulted in numerous casualties, with around 500 protestors killed, based on reports from the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency.

• 🎧 Iran’s potential negotiations with the U.S. could be influenced by their awareness of American military capabilities, as explained by Nader Habibi to NPR’s Jackie Northam. Iran threatens to target U.S. bases and ships if it anticipates an attack. The regime’s position is precarious following a recent conflict with Israel, which weakened its military strength and resulted in the loss of senior leaders.

Trump administration increases pressure on the Federal Reserve for lower rates. Fed Chairman Jerome Powell disclosed that the Justice Department issued a subpoena to the central bank last week. This inquiry relates to Powell’s testimony before the Senate Banking Committee in June 2025.

• 🎧 During that session, lawmakers questioned Powell about the Fed headquarters’ renovation costs, which rose from $1.9 billion to $2.5 billion. Powell, in a recent video, suggested the investigation transcends financial matters. President Trump has previously advocated for reduced interest rates and threatened to dismiss Powell, as highlighted by NPR’s Scott Horsley. The Fed’s design is meant to shield it from political influence to focus on long-term economic stability.

U.S. figure skating set for Winter Olympics dominance. The team comprises 16 skaters competing across all events: men’s, women’s, pairs, and ice dance. These athletes include world champions, experienced competitors, and promising newcomers. Meet the skaters who will represent Team USA.

• 📷 NPR’s Brian Munoz attended the U.S. Figure Skating Championships. His experience resulted in a newfound appreciation for the sport. View his photos capturing the athletes’ competitive spirit.

Health and Lifestyle Insights

Living Better is a special series focused on maintaining health in America.

As health discussions, particularly around issues like breast cancer and menopause, become more widespread, it’s crucial to be cautious of oversimplified or incorrect information. As many aim to achieve their New Year’s health objectives, medical professionals debunk common myths that individuals should be aware of.

• 🩺 While annual mammograms are vital, additional measures are necessary for breast cancer prevention. It’s important to understand your lifetime risk to determine if customized screening is required.
• 🩺 Although strength training is beneficial, it should not replace cardio, especially during midlife. Aerobic exercise remains essential.
• 🩺 There’s no significant evidence supporting the idea that women can optimize workouts based on their menstrual cycle. Research shows no notable changes in strength, endurance, or recovery throughout the cycle phases.

Entertainment and Culture

Ariana Grande arrives at the 83rd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) Image credit: Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

Among the celebrities gracing the red carpet at the 83rd Golden Globes in Beverly Hills were Ariana Grande, Noah Wyle, Teyana Taylor, and George Clooney. Also present were Morning Edition‘s own Michel Martin, Steve Inskeep, Leila Fadel, and A Martínez. Explore the stunning fashion showcased at the event.

➡️ Missed the ceremony? Catch up on all the 2026 Golden Globes winners.

Three Things to Know Before You Go

A photograph of President Trump and a short plaque next to it are on display at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery’s “American Presidents” exhibit on Sunday. Image credit: Rod Lamkey/AP

1. The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C., has removed references to Trump’s impeachments and presidency details from the text accompanying his portrait.
2. The Washington National Opera is departing from its longtime home at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, citing new policies that threaten its financial sustainability.
3. Bob Weir, a founding member of the iconic rock band the Grateful Dead, has passed away at 78.

This newsletter was edited by
Suzanne Nuyen.