Hi there~
Frankly I don't see anything crazy at all in your points. Minnesota does have better placements, especially in macro or IO. But given your interested field, I think you should pay more attention on their placements in development or political econ. Maybe Maryland is better than Minnesota from this angle (I didn't check the data though). As far as I know, DC is really a good place for political studies.
Also I believe the professors who share the same interests with you should be considered in your decision. Of course Minnesota has a bigger name than Maryland, but if there is a professor in maryland who's leading in your interested fields and his/her students have placed in your favorite institutions, it makes so much sense you choose maryland over minnesota. And You can have more information from professors with the same interests in their open houses. Anyway it's all about your own interests and future plan.