The Department of Homeland Security confirmed on Wednesday that two agents involved in the fatal shooting of a man in Minneapolis have been placed on administrative leave since Saturday. The move, described as standard protocol, comes as President Donald Trump attempts to manage political fallout from the incident.
Trump suggested he would “de-escalate” immigration enforcement in Minnesota but offered no specifics. Despite this, raids have continued, including an attempt by agents to enter the Ecuadorian consulate without a warrant on Tuesday. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced new arrests for “rioters” she said were “assaulting federal law enforcement”.
The killing of Alex Pretti, who was licensed to carry a firearm, has drawn widespread criticism. Trump distanced himself from Stephen Miller’s description of Pretti as an “assassin” but continued to blame him for carrying a gun. The National Rifle Association criticised the administration for disregarding Pretti’s constitutional right to bear arms.
A third round of “No Kings” protests is planned for 28 March, with organisers expecting up to 9 million participants. Ezra Levin of Indivisible said the response stems from “heinous attacks on our democracy and communities”.
Trump expressed frustration on Truth Social after Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey stated the city would not enforce federal immigration laws. Frey responded that local police should focus on public safety, not immigration enforcement. Meanwhile, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem reportedly clashed with Stephen Miller over her portrayal of Pretti as a “domestic terrorist”.
