At Issue: May 10 — COVID-19 latest, what lawmakers are working on in the session’s last week

The top story in this week’s edition of "At Issue" continues to be the state’s response to the coronavirus pandemic. Unfortunately, more than 80% of COVID-related deaths in Minnesota have come from long-term care facilities, forcing Gov. Tim Walz to develop a new plan to combat the virus in congregate facilities.

Meanwhile, some Republicans, businesses, churches and other groups push to lift restrictions that they say is hurting the state’s economic activity. It’s one reason the state is facing a $2.4 billion deficit. But, the governor faces another lawsuit because of his executive action — even though a KSTP/SurveyUSA Poll found 82% of Minnesotans approve of Walz’s actions.

With a week left before the Legislature is set to adjourn, there’s still a number of priorities lawmakers have left on the table. One major priority for the DFL is a bonding package, which they say will create jobs and help improve economic conditions. But House Minority Leader Kurt Daudt, R-Crown, says he’s willing to hold up any possible vote, which requires three-fifths majority, until the governor’s peacetime emergency powers end.

We also sat down with infectious disease expert Dr. Michael Osterholm, who talks about what Minnesotans can expect going forward. We also celebrate nurses, patients who have recovered and seniors from the Class of 2020 who are seeing their last days wiped away by the pandemic.

Watch the full show in the video player above.