Minneapolis mayoral debates emphasize Frey vs. Fateh divide
Five Minneapolis mayoral candidates debated in the first mayoral debate on Friday morning. Candidates in attendance were Mayor Jacob Frey, state Sen. Omar Fateh, Rev. Dewayne Davis, Jazz Hampton, and Brenda Short. They debated public safety, homeless encampments, and changes to downtown Minneapolis. Fateh has emerged as the main challenger against incumbent Frey. Fateh advocated for a “human and compassionate” response to encampment removal. Frey discussed his progress on public safety, including a 24/7 mental health response while acknowledging the need for more police officers. Early voting for the mayoral election has begun. Voters are able to rank their top three choices.
Rep. Morrison hosts gun violence town hall, meets with students
Rep. Kelly Morrison hosted a town hall addressing gun violence prevention at Wayzata Central Middle School on Sept. 21. She was joined by parents of Annunciation Catholic School students, a trauma surgeon who operated on children injured in the shooting, and youth advocates. Morrison advocated for immediate steps, including a ban on assault weapons. The town hall began with a community event where attendees participated in an activity sharing their hopes for a better future. Morrison also met with Edina’s Students Demand Action advocacy group prior to the town hall to discuss gun violence prevention measures from elected officials.
Trump raises H-1B visa petition fees, affecting firms and workers
President Donald Trump imposed a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa petitions Sept. 21. Employers previously paid $2,000–5,000 per petition. H-1B visas allow employers to petition for highly educated foreign professionals to work temporarily in “specialty occupations” in the U.S. Workers are often in the mathematics, engineering, technology, and medical science fields. Firms bring in workers with specialized skills if they have difficulties finding workers in the U.S. Amazon was the biggest sponsor of H-1B workers in 2025, and over 70% of H-1B visa holders are Indian citizens. Economists are concerned that the price increase will slow the technology industry and, consequently, the overall economy.
Documentary screening and community discussion on Oct. 9
Emmy-nominated Netflix documentary “Join or Die” will be screened at the Edina Community Center on Oct. 9. The documentary focuses on the importance of community engagement by joining clubs and participating in social events, especially in the context of growing individualism and threats to democracy. It centers on social scientist Robert Putnam’s research into American democratic crises and features notable politicians, including Hillary Clinton and Pete Buttigieg. Before the show, there will be a fair to learn about Edina organizations and clubs to join. A community member will moderate the post-show discussion.
This piece was originally published in Zephyrus’ print edition on Oct. 2, 2025
