Federal funding cuts

Beltrami County is proposing a 41% reduction in community funding for libraries in Blackduck and Bemidji, as well as the Beltrami County Historical Society and Paul Bunyan Transit, for the 2026 budget.

The Select Subcommittee on Federal Impacts on Minnesotans and Economic Stability will have Republican and DFL members, and will travel around the state to hear from Minnesotans impacted.

From hearing Woody Guthrie on the air in 1976 to leading KAXE through crises, Maggie Montgomery reflects on the station’s resilience and the urgent fight to keep community radio alive after federal funding cuts.

Minnesota was part of the multi-state lawsuit against the Trump administration for freezing funds for six programs, including after-school programs and summer learning.

University of Minnesota rising senior Dani Fraher was an intern at KAXE in the summer of 2025 through Report for Minnesota and the Minnesota Journalism Center.

More than 13,000 to be impacted in the 8th Congressional District.

The cut amounts to 37% of the station's budget. It said it won't close, but significant change will happen without "swift and collective action."

KOOTASCA Community Action said proposed cuts at the federal level would hurt its ability to support local families with housing and energy assistance, among other needs.

The event included a presentation and open discussion of recent state legislation on mental health as well as the upcoming cuts to Medicaid and Medicare.

Around Minnesota, there are more than 42 federally funded programs that provide various forms of support to first-generation college students and students with disabilities.