The state says a record number of Minnesotans applied for a permit to carry a gun last year. The annual report from the Department of Public Safety says 73,880 permits were applied for statewide, and county sheriffs offices issued 71,156 in 2016.
Reports of violent attacks, increased threats of terrorism and fears of political change has many Benton and Stearns County residents rethinking their rights to bare arms.
A man who allegedly tried to attack a couple outside the St. Cloud Walmart store last week got more than he bargained for. It turns out the husband has a permit to carry, and used his gun to thwart off the attacker.