Republican Blame Game Intensifies Over Minneapolis Border Patrol Shooting
The Trump administration finds itself embroiled in a significant internal blame game following the fatal shooting of an ICU nurse in Minneapolis, with even staunch loyalist Stephen Miller altering his public stance on the incident. The political fallout continues to escalate as key figures attempt to navigate the growing controversy.
Miller's Rhetorical Shift and Noem's Precarious Position
White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller initially described Alex Pretti as a "domestic terrorist" after federal agents shot the nurse during weekend protests. However, facing mounting criticism over this being the second such killing within a month, Miller has significantly softened his position. In a statement to CNN, he acknowledged that Customs and Border Protection agents "may not have been following proper protocol" during the incident.
Miller claimed the White House had provided clear guidance to the Department of Homeland Security following the earlier January 7th killing of Renee Good, specifically instructing that additional personnel in Minnesota should focus on fugitive operations and creating physical barriers. This represents a notable departure from his original characterization of events.
Administration Response and Internal Tensions
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has attempted to deflect responsibility, telling Axios that "everything I've done, I've done at the direction of the president and Stephen." This statement has only intensified scrutiny of her leadership during the crisis. A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson subsequently clarified that initial statements were based on reports from a chaotic scene, emphasizing that an investigation is now underway.
President Trump has taken several steps to manage the situation, according to White House insiders who suggest he recognized the need to "unf***" the escalating crisis. He appointed border czar Tom Homan to oversee operations in Minnesota, returned immigration commander Greg Bovino to California, and conducted late-night crisis talks with Noem and her top aide Corey Lewandowski.
Political Repercussions and Republican Concerns
The administration's handling of the Minneapolis shooting has sparked concerns within Republican ranks about potential electoral consequences. Florida Representative Ileana Garcia warned The New York Times that Miller's influence could damage the party's prospects in November's midterm elections. Despite these concerns, the White House has firmly defended Miller, describing him as "one of President Trump's most trusted and longest-serving aides" whose position remains secure.
South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham reinforced this position during a Fox News appearance, insisting the president maintains unwavering confidence in his adviser. Meanwhile, Noem faces mounting pressure from within her own party, with at least two Republican senators - Thom Tillis of North Carolina and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska - calling for her resignation.
Growing Calls for Accountability
Senator Tillis offered particularly harsh criticism, telling The Independent that Noem's actions in Minnesota should be "disqualifying" and that she should lose her position. He characterized the situation as "amateurish" and "terrible," suggesting it was damaging the president's standing on policies he had previously championed successfully.
Despite Trump eventually offering support for Noem by stating she was "doing a very good job," the Homeland Security secretary remains in a vulnerable position. She faces not only Republican criticism but also impeachment threats from Democratic opponents, creating a perfect storm of political pressure that shows no signs of abating as investigations into the Minneapolis shooting continue.
