Trump Demands Minnesota Cooperate with ICE as Obama and Clinton Warn of Historic Moment
Donald Trump has issued a list of demands to Minnesota leaders, urging them to cooperate with federal immigration authorities as tensions escalate following fatal shootings in Minneapolis. The president called on Governor Tim Walz and Mayor Jacob Frey to turn over "all illegal aliens" and partner with federal agencies to enforce immigration laws, warning against actions that could stoke division and violence.
Former Presidents Issue Stark Warnings
Barack Obama and Michelle Obama described the shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti by a federal agent as a "wake-up call to every American," stating that the nation's core values are under increasing assault. Meanwhile, Bill Clinton warned that the United States faces a historic turning point that will shape its future for decades, urging citizens to raise their voices and demonstrate that the country still belongs to "We the people."
Details of the Minneapolis Shooting
Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, became the second protester killed in Minneapolis in less than three weeks, following the earlier fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good. Pretti's family has denounced the Trump administration's "sickening lies" about the incident. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara confirmed that Pretti was a lawful gun owner with a permit to carry his weapon, contradicting Trump's claims about the firearm involved.
Border Patrol Chief Blames Democrats and Journalists
The Border Patrol chief has attributed the chaos in Minneapolis to Democrats and journalists, adding to the political tensions surrounding the immigration enforcement operation. This statement comes as more than 60 CEOs of Minnesota-based companies, including Target and Best Buy, have signed an open letter calling for immediate de-escalation and urging officials to work together to address the unrest.
Growing Public Response and Fundraising Efforts
A GoFundMe campaign established to support Pretti's family has surpassed $900,000, with organizers describing him as an "American Hero." The funds are intended to assist his loved ones with immediate needs, with provisions to direct donations to the Immigrant Defense Project if family distribution proves impossible. Meanwhile, Gisele Barreto Fetterman, wife of Senator John Fetterman, has shared her personal experience of living undocumented in the U.S., describing the current climate as a "shared national wound."
Clinton's Detailed Statement on Constitutional Rights
In a comprehensive statement shared on social media, Bill Clinton expressed horror at scenes in Minneapolis that he "never thought would take place in America." He highlighted instances where peaceful demonstrators exercising constitutional rights were arrested, beaten, teargassed, and, in the cases of Good and Pretti, shot and killed. Clinton emphasized that these actions are unacceptable and criticized authorities for lying to the public and impeding local investigations.
Trump's Comments on the Shooting
Donald Trump claimed that Pretti was carrying a "very dangerous gun" but stated that his administration is reviewing all details of the incident. The Department of Homeland Security previously indicated that Pretti possessed a 9mm semiautomatic handgun. Trump acknowledged his dislike of shootings but questioned the appropriateness of bringing a loaded firearm to a protest.
Republican Governor Calls Death Unacceptable
A Republican governor has described Pretti's death as "not acceptable," reflecting bipartisan concern over the escalating violence. This sentiment is echoed by business leaders and community members calling for calm and cooperation between state, local, and federal authorities to prevent further tragedy and restore order in Minneapolis.
