News across Itasca County

The U.S. has more thalidomide survivors than the government admits
In the 1950s and 1960s, doctors gave the drug thalidomide to pregnant patients without telling them — and without FDA approval. Now those patients' children want recognition.

The AI safety debate is confusing. Here's our guide to the different factions
The battle over AI's promise and perils is not a clash between two opposing sides, but a debate among a range of competing voices and ideologies. Here is a guide to who's who in that debate.

Meal deliveries can save money and improve health. Will they survive Medicaid cuts?
Some states deliver meals to Medicaid patients that address their dietary needs. Evidence shows it aids recovery and saves healthcare costs, but federal budget cuts may lead some states to cancel it.

Pope warns a 'paradise of machines' could undermine humanity as he opens France trip
Pope Leo XIV has warned that a "paradise of machines" could undermine humanity. He raises concerns about artificial intelligence, nuclear arms, and human rights during his visit to France.

Roads flood in New Jersey, inundate some homes, as first major signs of nor'easter take shape
Thousands are without power on the U.S. East Coast, while roads are flooding in some coastal New Jersey communities.

CNN left off Air Force One for Trump's upcoming trip, White House signals in new media restriction
The White House has signaled that CNN will be left off Air Force One for President Donald Trump's Saturday trip in the latest media restriction in an ongoing dispute with First Amendment implications.

The Pacific is churning with hurricanes. The Atlantic is quiet. Blame El Niño
The Pacific Ocean has had an unusual number of storms this year, while the Atlantic hasn't recorded a single full-blown hurricane. Scientists point to an exceptionally strong El Niño.

Takeaways from the Trump-Xi state visit: Pageantry and pandas
The visit comes at an important time for both men.

'The Disappearers' is a fiercely personal novel that hits like a tidal wave
Marlon James' new novel chronicles the events surrounding a vicious anti-gay attack in Jamaica in the late 1980s. Shortlisted for the Booker Prize, The Disappearers churns with passion and ideas.

Woman who accused Jay-Z of sexual assault says her claims were false
On Thursday, the woman identified as Jane Doe filed a declaration in Manhattan federal court stating that all of her original claims against the rapper were false.

There's a global pandemic treaty that's signed -- and in 'limbo.' What's the holdup?
The treaty aims to help the countries of the world prepare for — and defeat — any future pandemic. Why hasn't it gone into effect?

Pope Leo warns a 'paradise of machines' could undermine humanity on his France visit
Pope Leo XIV raised existential concerns about scientific progress, life and human rights during a speech on his first papal visit to France.