A rally led by a pardoned January 6th insurrectionist in Minneapolis was abruptly cut short on Sunday, after the event was overwhelmed by a much larger group of counter-protesters. The organiser, Jake Lang, and his supporters were chased from the steps of the federal courthouse.
The Crusader March Meets Overwhelming Opposition
The event, dubbed the CRUSADER MARCH, was organised by Jake Lang. Lang had received a presidential pardon for his role in the 2021 US Capitol riot. His rally targeted the city's Somali community and promoted anti-immigrant views. Prior to the event, Lang had publicly stated his intention to burn a Quran.
However, the gathering was dwarfed by a significant number of counter-demonstrators. These protesters voiced opposition to the current administration and a recent surge in federal immigration agents deployed to Minneapolis. The counter-protesters threw water balloons and snowballs at Lang's group, creating a chaotic scene that ultimately forced the rally to disperse.
Federal Immigration Surge Sparks Local Backlash
The tense confrontation occurred against a backdrop of heightened political conflict over immigration enforcement in the city. Minneapolis has recently seen an influx of federal immigration agents. This deployment followed a fatal shooting by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer and has faced fierce criticism from local leaders.
Mayor Jacob Frey and Governor Tim Walz have been vocal in their opposition to the increased federal presence. The state of Minnesota has taken legal action, suing the administration over the policy. In a related development, a federal judge has imposed limits on the use of force against protesters in Minneapolis.
Aftermath and Legal Challenges
The incident on Sunday 18 January 2026 highlights the deep divisions surrounding immigration policy and free speech. Lang's attempt to rally support for his cause was decisively countered by local activists. Meanwhile, the legal battle between state and federal authorities continues, with the judge's ruling on use of force adding another layer to the complex situation.
The event concluded with Lang and his supporters leaving the area, their rally effectively shut down by the sheer volume of opposing voices. The episode serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions in communities across the United States.
