A senior staff member working for Hennepin County prosecutor Mary Moriarty, who has been labelled "America's wokest prosecutor," was identified among the demonstrators who stormed a Minnesota church during Sunday worship services. The incident, which targeted Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations, has sparked significant controversy and raised questions about political involvement in grassroots activism.
Key Figure in Protest Identified
Jamael Lundy, who serves as intergovernmental affairs coordinator for prosecutor Mary Moriarty, was seen participating in the anti-ICE demonstration at a St. Paul church. Former CNN anchor Don Lemon streamed footage from inside the church where Lundy was observed holding an American flag upside down and raising his fist during the service disruption.
According to his campaign materials, Lundy is currently running as a Democratic candidate for Minnesota State Senate District 65. His presence at the protest has drawn particular attention given his professional role as the staff member who would typically interact with federal government agencies on behalf of Moriarty's office.
Political Connections and Response
Lundy is married to St. Paul City Council member Anika Bowie, adding another layer of political connection to the incident. During his interview with Don Lemon, Lundy stated: "I'm here to support our community activists. I feel like it's important if you're going to be representing people in office, that you're out here with the people as well."
This statement appeared to contradict Lemon's characterization of the gathering as unsanctioned by officials. The journalist had described the protest as "grassroots" and organized "without support from officials," but Lundy emphasized his connections to elected officials while supporting community action "within the lines of the law."
Federal Investigation Considered
Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon announced that her office is considering opening a federal investigation into the incident, citing perceived inaction by Minnesota authorities. This development follows Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison's comments defending the protesters' actions under First Amendment protections.
The potential federal probe would examine not only the protest participants but also Don Lemon's involvement in streaming the event. Dhillon's announcement highlights growing tensions between federal and state authorities regarding the appropriate response to such demonstrations.
Background of the Staffer
Beyond his role in Moriarty's office, Lundy has an extensive political background having previously worked for Minnesota House Representative Carlos Mariani, the Democratic House Caucus Campaign, Congresswoman Betty McCollum, and the state teachers union. He also operates "Homes for Homies Property Management LLC," a company that provides affordable housing for individuals with credit challenges or criminal backgrounds.
Additionally, Lundy founded "Black Operations Public Relations LLC" and maintains his campaign for state senate while working in the prosecutor's office. These multiple roles have raised questions about potential conflicts of interest and the appropriate boundaries between official duties and political activism.
Prosecutor's Controversial Stance
Mary Moriarty, the Hennepin County prosecutor whom Lundy serves, has become increasingly vocal in her opposition to ICE operations in Minnesota. Following recent immigration enforcement actions in the state, Moriarty criticized what she called "strike teams" that she claimed unfairly targeted Somali community members.
Her office has explicitly stated it will not assist ICE raids in any capacity, with Moriarty declaring: "Our Somali community members are what makes Minneapolis one of the finest places in the world to live." This position has developed alongside separate investigations into Moriarty's consideration of suspects' racial identity when making charging decisions.
The prosecutor's comments come amid broader scrutiny of welfare fraud cases in Minnesota, where numerous convictions have involved members of the Somali community. However, Moriarty has consistently denied allegations of wrongdoing by Somali immigrant groups in the region.
Broader Implications
This incident highlights the complex intersection of local politics, immigration policy, and protest activism in contemporary America. The participation of a government staffer in a demonstration that disrupted religious services raises questions about appropriate conduct for public employees engaged in political activism.
Furthermore, the differing responses from state and federal authorities illustrate ongoing tensions in immigration enforcement approaches. As the situation develops, it may influence both local elections and broader policy debates about the appropriate relationship between government officials and grassroots movements.
