Today in Minot

The debate over a viral video urging service members to reject illegal orders has touched off more than another partisan flare-up — it’s exposed how little most Americans understand about the military oaths that govern our armed forces. As the rhetoric escalates, retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General Mark Hertling a step back to explain the constitutional guardrails that already exist inside the chain of command. It’s a reminder that the military isn’t a monolith, and that its protections against unlawful authority were deliberately built long before today’s political tension.

As political tensions continue to climb, a new clash erupted Thursday after President Donald Trump accused six Democratic lawmakers of “sedition” for urging U.S. service members to reject unlawful orders. The lawmakers — all military or intelligence veterans — had released a short video reminding troops that their oath is to the Constitution, not any individual. Their message came as the administration pushes to deploy National Guard troops into U.S. cities, a move tied up in legal and political challenges. Trump’s escalation, including social media posts referencing punishment “by DEATH,” drew sharp warnings from Democrats and prompted a fresh debate over military duty, lawful orders, and the boundaries of presidential rhetoric. Meg Kinnard with Associated Press has the full story.

North Dakotans expect the Legacy Fund to be a safeguard for the future, not a mystery box. But a growing share of its money—more than $3 billion—is tied up in investment pools the public can’t see into and state officials can’t fully explain. That’s the concern driving a new push for transparency and accountability. If lawmakers and the governor want this fund to truly serve the state’s long-term interests, the Forum Editorial Board argues, it’s time to take back control of how those dollars are managed. Read the full opinion at Inforum.

Minot is taking a hard look at Third Street East, and city engineers say the coming reconstruction is as much about safety and usability as it is about replacing worn-out pavement. After years of heavy traffic and awkward pedestrian conditions, the corridor is due for a full rebuild — and Thursday’s public meeting offered the first glimpse of what that future might look like. From potential lane reductions to wider sidewalks, updated signals, and refreshed streetscaping, the project aims to create a safer, more connected gateway into downtown.

Primary construction for segment 1 is slated for the 2027 season and includes the road-stretch from the 3rd Street Bridge to just south of the Canadian Pacific Railroad crossing. Jill Schramm with Minot Daily News has the full story.

Big bonuses for North Dakota’s investment staff are back on the agenda, and they’re stirring up familiar debate. On Friday, the State Investment Board will weigh more than $1.2 million in incentive pay for the employees who manage pension funds, the Legacy Fund, and other state investments. Supporters say the payouts reflect strong returns and help keep talent in government. Critics question the size of the bonuses — and who qualifies for them — arguing the system has drifted from its original purpose. Rob Port with InForum has the full story.