White House officials have sought to distance President Donald Trump and senior administration figures from their initial characterisation of Alex Pretti, the man fatally shot by federal agents in Minnesota, as a domestic terrorist. The move follows widespread backlash after video footage appeared to contradict earlier assertions that Pretti was a gunman.
Over the weekend, senior officials including Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem described Pretti as a domestic terrorist who tried to assassinate law enforcement. However, video evidence showed Pretti was shot in the back approximately ten times after being tackled to the ground and disarmed of his gun, which he was licensed to carry.
At a briefing on Monday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt sidestepped questions about the remarks, stating the administration would not comment pending investigations. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche also attempted to backpedal, telling Fox News that no one intended to compare the incident to the legal definition of domestic terrorism.
President Trump appeared to seek an off-ramp, announcing a "very good call" with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, agreeing to consider reducing federal agents in the state and allowing state investigators to conduct an independent inquiry. Trump also announced he would send border czar Tom Homan to oversee operations in Minneapolis, replacing the current US border patrol official.
The evolving positions underscore the administration's reactive approach amid a sudden drop in support for immigration enforcement tactics, particularly among Republicans. Leavitt maintained that blame for the shooting rested with Walz and Democrats, citing "deliberate and hostile resistance" to federal policies.
