Several states are considering reintroducing Medicaid work requirements under the Trump administration, with Arkansas and Georgia leading the way. Arkansas previously implemented such requirements, resulting in significant coverage loss before being halted by a federal judge. Georgia has a similar program in place, though it has not met enrollment expectations. Proponents argue these requirements promote self-sufficiency, while critics highlight the negative impact on healthcare access. The Congressional Budget Office estimates significant federal savings if work requirements are widely adopted. The debate continues as states weigh the potential benefits against the challenges and past experiences.

Larry Rhoden is set to become South Dakota's governor, succeeding Kristi Noem, who is moving to a cabinet position. Rhoden, a conservative Republican, will face a legislature with many new far-right members and a challenging budget environment due to slowing tax revenues and increased state expenses. Known for his fiscal conservatism, Rhoden's leadership will be tested by the need to manage tight budgets and potential policy shifts, such as funding for education and infrastructure projects. The political landscape in South Dakota remains dominated by internal GOP dynamics, with Rhoden expected to focus on state issues rather than seeking national attention.

A new federal rule mandates the removal of lead drinking water pipes across the U.S., posing significant financial and logistical challenges for states, cities, and water utilities. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's rule requires the replacement of over 9 million lead service lines within a decade, with an estimated cost of $45 to $90 billion. State and local officials are urging Congress for ongoing funding to meet the deadline and avoid burdening ratepayers. The rule aims to prevent health issues associated with lead exposure, but concerns about affordability, workforce capacity, and private property complications persist. Some states, like Michigan and New Jersey, have already begun addressing the issue, but further federal support is deemed necessary.

The 2024 election in Washington state saw a significant drop in voter turnout, particularly among young voters aged 18 to 24, who showed an 8.5 percentage point decrease from 2020. Older age groups experienced smaller declines. Factors contributing to the lower turnout include a lack of enthusiasm for candidates and a decrease in early voting compared to 2020. The article highlights the challenges faced by election officials, such as long lines and last-minute voters, and notes that final turnout data will be available after the election is certified. Community organizers and election officials provide insights into the trends and potential reasons for the turnout changes.

The article examines the persistent economic divides in the United States, highlighting how these divides continue to shape political support for Donald Trump, who has made notable gains in new areas. Despite Trump's victory in the 2024 presidential election, his base represents a minority of the nation's GDP, with rural and small-town areas voting Republican, while urban areas tend to vote Democratic. The article notes a shift in party allegiance in several large counties, expanding Trump's base. The economic and cultural divides between red and blue America suggest potential for increased political conflict and challenges in achieving inclusive economic growth.

Minnesota's job market experienced a net loss of 1,000 jobs in October, with declines in professional services and construction sectors outweighing gains in manufacturing. A survey by Enterprise Minnesota highlighted concerns among manufacturers about economic conditions, inflation, and new state regulations, with many halting hiring. Despite these challenges, Minnesota's overall job growth for the year remains positive, though it lags behind the national average. State officials remain optimistic about future employment prospects, citing major business expansions and broadband development funding. However, global economic factors and supply chain disruptions pose ongoing risks.

Connecticut's judicial watchdog received nearly 2,000 complaints against judges for alleged wrongdoing, including bias and personal misconduct, from 2006 to 2023. However, 98.5% of these complaints were dismissed, often without public disclosure of the details. Only a few cases led to disciplinary actions such as suspensions or censures. Critics argue for more transparency to ensure accountability and a fairer judicial system, while defenders of the current process cite the need to protect judges from frivolous complaints and maintain the integrity of the judiciary. The Judicial Review Council, which handles these complaints, operates under state law that mandates confidentiality, only making cases public if they reach a probable cause stage. The council consists of judges, attorneys, and public members appointed by the governor and approved by the state legislature.

Lt. Gov. Burt Jones of Georgia, known for his MAGA alignment, has been making overtures to Black Democrats, including sponsoring Black History Month events and advocating for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Despite his controversial role as a 'fake elector' and election denier, Jones has shown support for HBCU-related initiatives, such as the HBCU Innovation and Economic Prosperity Planning Districts Act and funding for a veterinary school feasibility study. This behavior may represent a Republican strategy to attract Black voters in battleground states. National election data indicates a slight increase in minority support for Trump between 2016 and 2020, with cultural figures from the hip-hop community also showing support. The article suggests that Black and minority legislators should work with Republicans on intersecting interests, like HBCU initiatives, to achieve gains for their constituencies, despite potential ideological differences.

Milwaukee County, with one of the nation's highest overdose fatality rates, is using over $100 million from opioid settlements to fund diverse prevention and treatment programs. The county's Black population has seen a 75% increase in fatal overdoses from 2020 to 2022, largely due to fentanyl and its mix with other drugs. The county's approach includes naloxone distribution, education, and interventions for incarcerated individuals. Milwaukee County also aims to address systemic racism and poverty as underlying factors of substance abuse. An overdose dashboard provides real-time data on overdoses, and future plans may include postvention strategies for those bereaved by overdoses. The National Association of Counties has launched an Opioid Solutions Center to support counties in managing settlement funds and changing the trajectory of the opioid crisis.

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, a Democrat, has called for pardoning all misdemeanor marijuana possession convictions, a decision pending approval by the Governor's Council. The article discusses the use of pardon power by governors, highlighting the increase in pardons in recent years and the political risks involved. It mentions several governors, including Missouri's Mike Parson and Wisconsin's Tony Evers, who have issued a significant number of pardons. The article also touches on the controversy surrounding pardons, such as those issued by former Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin, and the historical context of pardons in the criminal justice system.