Eric Roper
Columnist
News & PoliticsSince joining the Minnesota Star Tribune in 2009, Eric has covered the Twin Cities metro area, the city of Minneapolis, the state Legislature and Congress. Prior to becoming a columnist, he oversaw the Star Tribune's Curious Minnesota project and helped create the narrative podcast "Ghost of a Chance." He is a graduate of the George Washington University and lives in south Minneapolis. In his spare time, Eric is a hobbyist woodworker and old home DIYer. To follow Eric's work by email, sign up for his newsletter at startribune.com/roperalert.
Latest from Eric Roper
Roper: Momentum is building for a rebirth of Uptown
Here’s hoping its next chapter captures the eclectic, youthful energy that has made it special.
June 28, 2025
Roper: We’ve got a surplus of cities. The metro’s toughest problems require a regional approach.
Loads of local governments in the Twin Cities have created a patchwork of priorities and regulations.
June 22, 2025
Roper: Toxic politics keeps some on the sidelines
Reader anecdotes show how threats and vitriol discourage involvement in public life, which impoverishes us all.
June 20, 2025
Roper: The legacy of June 14 hinges on confronting a vicious cycle in our politics
We must ensure Melissa Hortman’s assassination marks a turning point for Minnesota’s civic dialogue.
June 18, 2025
Roper: The ‘birthplace of Minneapolis’ is ready for its next chapter. Let’s tell the whole story.
The John H. Stevens House has been repaired after arsons, but needs a new vision to be relevant.
June 12, 2025
Roper: Plentiful ideas to fix Nicollet Mall show it has a bright future
Readers had no shortage of suggestions for Minneapolis’ signature street, including greenery, museums and buskers.
June 5, 2025
Let’s talk about the future of Nicollet Mall. Join our live blog now with columnist Eric Roper
Roper is chatting online with readers today from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
June 3, 2025
Roper: Downtown St. Paul still awaits the return of state workers
There were some signs of activity on Monday, but more people are expected later this week.
June 3, 2025
Roper: The ‘birthplace of Minneapolis’ is ready for its next chapter. Let’s tell the whole story.
The John H. Stevens House has been repaired after arsons, but needs a new vision to be relevant.
June 12, 2025
Roper: Plentiful ideas to fix Nicollet Mall show it has a bright future
Readers had no shortage of suggestions for Minneapolis’ signature street, including greenery, museums and buskers.
June 5, 2025
Let’s talk about the future of Nicollet Mall. Join our live blog now with columnist Eric Roper
Roper is chatting online with readers today from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
June 3, 2025
Roper: Downtown St. Paul still awaits the return of state workers
There were some signs of activity on Monday, but more people are expected later this week.
June 3, 2025