A Democratic Senate candidate ignited a firestorm of criticism after characterizing the dismantling of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as a “moderate” position, a statement made in the immediate aftermath of a fatal shooting involving an ICE agent in Minneapolis.
The incident unfolded as ICE agents were conducting enforcement operations when a 37-year-old Minneapolis resident, Renee Nicole Good, allegedly used her vehicle in a threatening manner, prompting an agent to discharge their firearm. Federal authorities have described the act as an instance of “domestic terrorism.”
Graham Platner, the candidate, responded to the shooting with a series of posts, asserting that the tragedy was an inevitable consequence of “armed, under-trained amateurs” operating with insufficient oversight. He doubled down, declaring the complete dismantling of ICE to be the reasonable, centrist approach.
His pronouncements drew swift and harsh rebukes from across the political spectrum. Critics pointed to the intensity of his language, suggesting it bordered on inciting violence against ICE personnel and advocating for the weaponization of the legal system.
Minneapolis city council members and Mayor Jacob Frey reacted with outrage, demanding ICE’s immediate withdrawal from the city, characterizing their presence as a source of “chaos and violence.” The shooting sparked immediate protests, with demonstrators gathering outside a Minneapolis courthouse, visibly expressing their demands for ICE’s removal.
Platner’s past has also come under scrutiny. He has faced questions regarding a chest tattoo some observers believe resembles a Nazi “death’s head” symbol, allegations he vehemently denies. He has also attempted to dismiss previous online posts identifying him as a “communist” as mere online banter.
The controversy surrounding Platner’s statements and background comes as he seeks the Democratic nomination to challenge incumbent Senator Susan Collins of Maine in the 2026 election, adding another layer of complexity to an already contentious race.
The shooting and the ensuing political fallout highlight the deeply polarized debate surrounding immigration enforcement and the future of ICE, a debate now thrust into the center of a high-profile Senate campaign.
