MICHIGAN MINNESOTA MAINE IOWA

Jun 16 2026POLITICS

Why Michigan leaders ignore local worries about big tech projects

Michigan’s governor has a habit of pushing big projects while brushing off public concerns. At a recent event celebrating a new data center, she seemed to dismiss opposition with a blunt remark. The message was clear: complaints don’t matter in the end. This isn’t just about one project—it’s about h

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Jun 14 2026POLITICS

Maine’s Push to Block AI License Plate Spies

Maine is taking a stand against AI-powered license plate cameras, and it couldn’t come at a better time. These devices, often made by a company called Flock Safety, track cars without warrants, logging where people drive, when they do it, and even what their cars look like. Worse, they’re being used

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Jun 13 2026ENVIRONMENT

Power Needs a Plan: Why Maine Must Think Smart About Energy Storage

Maine's power system is facing a huge challenge. More people are using electric cars. Also, more homes are installing heat pumps. This means everyone needs way more electricity than before. To handle this growing demand, the state seriously needs bigger energy storage options. If Maine wants to use

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Jun 13 2026POLITICS

Updates to Iowa’s Historic Tax Credit Rules

Iowa has decided to update how it handles tax credits for historic preservation projects. The state’s Historical Division removed one rulebook and moved its details into another. Instead of having separate guidelines for historic projects, the state is combining them into a single set of rules. The

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Jun 12 2026POLITICS

Michigan Proposes New Rules for Retirement Funds to Dip into Crypto

Michigan is testing waters to let retirement funds invest in cryptocurrency—but under strict conditions. A pending bill, House Bill 4510, wants to change rules for public employee retirement systems, allowing them to add digital assets to investment portfolios. So far, the bill hasn’t become law, an

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Jun 07 2026OPINION

Fears and Facts in Maine

Maine’s politics have been stirred up by a candidate warning about a threat that isn’t really there. The claim says the state risks being changed by Muslim newcomers, as if laws themselves could bend to faith or tradition. But the state constitution and criminal code already cover everyone equally.

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Jun 06 2026WEATHER

Storm Alert: Iowa Braces for More Thunder and Rain

Iowa residents are gearing up for a new wave of storms, as the National Weather Service in Des Moines predicts more severe weather starting Friday. After Thursday’s heavy showers, the state saw its highest 24‑hour rainfall in places like Boone (2. 73 inches) and Independence (2. 58 inches). Even the

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Jun 06 2026WEATHER

Federal Help Sought After Michigan’s Storm Chaos

Michigan’s governor has asked the federal government for disaster aid covering 43 counties that suffered heavy rain, rapid snowmelt and nine tornadoes from April 10 to 21. If the request is granted, money would go straight to people, businesses and local groups hit by the storms. The weather hit

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Jun 06 2026OPINION

Michigan's Housing Puzzle: Can Fewer Rules Mean More Homes?

Michigan is facing a tough housing problem. Prices keep climbing and many young adults can't afford to buy a home. The issue isn't just about money. Rules and regulations make it harder to build new houses. These rules don't just slow down construction. They also limit choices for families looking f

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Jun 05 2026ENVIRONMENT

A Quick Guide to Michigan’s Lake Temperatures This Summer

Michigan’s lakes heat up at different speeds in early summer. While the big lakes like Superior stay chilly, some spots are already warm enough for a quick dip. Saginaw Bay in Lake Huron and parts of Lake Erie are pushing close to 70 degrees, making them feel almost bath-like compared to other areas

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