A tense situation in Minneapolis erupted into chaos over the weekend, following a fatal shooting involving Border Patrol agents and a man later identified as Alex Jeffrey Pretti. The incident occurred during a struggle after Pretti reportedly brandished a firearm, igniting immediate unrest and the establishment of an “autonomous zone” by anti-ICE protesters who overwhelmed local police.
The White House swiftly responded, with the Press Secretary delivering a forceful condemnation of the events and the actions of Minnesota’s political leadership. She asserted the tragedy was a direct consequence of what she described as deliberate obstruction and the spread of misinformation regarding federal law enforcement by Governor Walz and Mayor Frey.
The Press Secretary didn’t shy away from connecting the Minneapolis events to a broader pattern of violence perpetrated by individuals unlawfully present in the country. She cited the deaths of Laken Riley, Jocelyn Nungary, and Rachel Morin, alongside a recent case involving an eight-year-old girl nearly fatally injured by a rock thrown by an individual with a criminal history.
She argued that the previous administration’s border policies directly contributed to the current crisis, allowing a surge of individuals, including those with criminal backgrounds, to enter the United States. The Press Secretary emphasized a perceived lack of concern from Democrats and the media regarding crimes committed by those who had crossed the border illegally.
The administration outlined a series of demands for Minnesota officials, centered on increased cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. These included turning over incarcerated individuals with criminal records to federal authorities, assisting in the apprehension of wanted individuals, and fully cooperating with ICE operations.
A call was made for Congress to enact legislation ending sanctuary city policies, framing such cities as havens for criminals rather than safe spaces for law-abiding citizens. The administration believes a unified approach between federal, state, and local law enforcement is crucial for public safety.
The Press Secretary underscored the President’s unwavering commitment to deporting individuals who have committed crimes, particularly violent offenses, and highlighted strong public support for such measures. She stated that the President views this as fulfilling a promise made to the American people.
Following a direct conversation with Governor Walz, the White House expressed hope for a collaborative path forward, urging the governor to prioritize the safety of the American people. The administration maintains that a secure border and strict immigration enforcement are paramount to national security.
The situation remains under active investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the FBI, with Customs and Border Protection conducting an internal review. The administration has pledged to allow the investigation to proceed thoroughly while simultaneously addressing the underlying issues that contributed to the escalating tensions in Minneapolis.
