Rochelle Olson

Saint Paul

Reporter at The Minnesota Star Tribune

Reporter

Featured in: Favicon

startribune.com Favicon

msn.com

washingtonpost.com Favicon

yahoo.com (+3) Favicon

pbs.org

smh.com.au Favicon

chicagotribune.com Favicon

stuff.co.nz Favicon

chron.com

seattletimes.com + 101 more

Articles

Champion's lack of clarity shows need for immediate ethics change at the Legislature

1 week ago | startribune.com | Rochelle Olson

Who will step up and build a bipartisan coalition dedicated to advancing long overdue reforms?
Why Steve Simon stands above

2 weeks ago | startribune.com | Rochelle Olson

Opinion editor's note: Strib Voices publishes a mix of commentary online and in print each day. To contribute, click here. Cheers to Secretary of State Steve Simon, whose knowledge, integrity and commitment are a continuing inspiration.
You carry keys (probably). Are you a criminal?

2 weeks ago | startribune.com | Rochelle Olson

At a committee hearing recently, Todd Johnson, the lobbyist for the MPCA, said the agency has tested keys and found examples of lead-free alternatives, but he was unable to provide test results. He said the agency is "engaging with the industry" that claims there aren't great alternatives. As an alternative to lead remains elusive, Justen worries about his business that has operated in Minneapolis since 1921. He's aware that by speaking out, he may become a target.
Focus on connection, not billions in stadium funding debates

3 weeks ago | startribune.com | Rochelle Olson

By Rochelle Olson Count Sen. Nick Frentz, DFL-North Mankato, among those who believe these buildings enhance the quality of life for so many and create some of the most cherished of memories. "What's it worth for a fourth-grader to play football at U.S. Bank Stadium? Or a ninth-grade kid to dream of playing in the state tournament at the Xcel Energy Center?" Frentz asked. "You're talking about things the kids will remember for the rest of their lives."He's preaching to the choir.
U.S. Bank Stadium keeps its lid for 10th winter

4 weeks ago | startribune.com | Rochelle Olson

Opinion editor's note: Strib Voices publishes a mix of commentary online and in print each day. To contribute, click here. Cheers to the roof on U.S. Bank Stadium, home of the Minnesota Vikings, for surviving 10 winters without incident. The building opened in August 2016, but the clear ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) roof was in place by December 2015. Remember when we wondered if the polymer roof could withstand Minnesota winters?
With 'Trump derangement' and Eichorn arrest, it's the Minnesota Senate's turn for chaos

1 month ago | startribune.com | Rochelle Olson

Opinion editor's note: Strib Voices publishes a mix of commentary online and in print each day. To contribute, click here. Cheers to the state Senate's gang of five for shining a bright light on waste, fraud and abuse with their bill to classify "Trump derangement syndrome" as a mental illness.
Olson: Wisconsin’s big dollar Supreme Court elections could come here

1 month ago | startribune.com | Rochelle Olson

Minnesota’s election system keeps the money out — for now. The Minnesota Star TribuneMarch 19, 2025 at 10:31PMA man casts his ballot during early voting in Waukesha, Wis., March 18. (Jeffrey Phelps/The Associated Press)Opinion editor’s note: Strib Voices publishes a mix of commentary online and in print each day. To contribute, click here.
Cheers and Jeers: Derek Chauvin trial, disgraced lawyer, Paul Wikstrom, free speech

1 month ago | startribune.com | Rochelle Olson

A weekly roundup of reaction to events, notable or not. March 13, 2025 at 10:31PMFrom left, attorney Ben Crump, the Rev. Al Sharpton and Brandon Williams, nephew of George Floyd, take a knee for 8 minutes and 46 seconds at the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis on March 29, 2021. (Jerry Holt/The Minnesota Star Tribune)Opinion editor’s note: Strib Voices publishes a mix of commentary online and in print each day. To contribute, click here.
Olson: Flanagan launches U.S. Senate campaign focusing on hope, not hype

1 month ago | startribune.com | Rochelle Olson

Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan’s kitchen table conversations showcase her skill at connection. March 11, 2025 at 10:31PMLt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan greets employees at Cornerstone Advocacy Service in Minneapolis on Oct. 9, 2024. (Renée Jones Schneider/The Minnesota Star Tribune)Opinion editor’s note: Strib Voices publishes a mix of commentary online and in print each day. To contribute, click here. When it comes to starting a political campaign, it doesn’t get much more cliche than listening sessions.
Olson: Minnesota leaders are up to the task of budget building

1 month ago | startribune.com | Rochelle Olson

But bet on a Republican farmer and his chain saw to help get the real work done. "As you watch the legislators in coming weeks, bear in mind that disagreements are part of the dialectic that should produce a better deal in the end," Rochelle Olson writes. "Minnesotans voted for a narrowly divided Legislature and dissent is part of the deal." (John Autey/St. Paul Pioneer Press)Opinion editor’s note: Strib Voices publishes a mix of commentary online and in print each day. To contribute, click here.