One of the biggest threats loons face is poisoning from swallowing lead sinkers, lures and jigs. Yet efforts to ban lead tackle in Minnesota have repeatedly failed and convincing anglers to voluntarily switch out their lead tackle for non-toxic alternatives has been a slow process.

A new poll finds that Americans strongly prefer that the president achieves his political goals through conventional, sometimes slow, procedures. Republicans are more supportive than Democrats of unconventional presidential actions.

Black smoke has again poured out of the Sistine Chapel chimney, indicating no pope was elected on the second or third ballots of the conclave to choose a new leader of the Catholic Church. The smoke appeared just before noon in the Vatican after morning voting sessions to elect a successor to Pope Francis.

As legislative session winds down, mental health advocates are pressing for a solution to bridge care services for children.

Jimmy Butler and Buddy Hield delivered in their own ways the both-ends-of-the-floor production necessary for Golden State to fend off Minnesota for a Game 1 victory after star Stephen Curry went down with a strained left hamstring early in the second quarter. Butler pitched in 20 points, 11 rebounds, eight assists and sound defense.

President Donald Trump has nominated Minneapolis attorney Daniel Rosen to serve as the next U.S. attorney for Minnesota.