Trump Administration Faces Scrutiny After Fatal Shootings in Minneapolis
The Trump administration is facing mounting criticism and calls for accountability following two fatal shootings of U.S. citizens by federal immigration enforcement agents in Minneapolis. The incidents, which occurred in January 2026, have sparked widespread anger and led to leadership changes within the administration's immigration enforcement efforts.
On January 24, 2026, Alex Pretti, 37, was shot and killed by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis, according to Vox. The death ignited protests and intensified scrutiny of the administration's immigration policies.
In response to the growing outcry, President Trump reshuffled the leadership of his immigration enforcement surge in Minnesota, NPR reported. Gregory Bovino, the operation commander, was removed from his position, and Border Czar Tom Homan was appointed to take over.
However, critics argue that changes at the top may not be enough to address the underlying issues. According to NPR, the immigration agents deployed to the Twin Cities are generally less experienced in urban policing and crowd control.
The incidents have also led to calls for Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to resign. Some Republican lawmakers, including Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), have joined Democrats in demanding her resignation. "What she's done in Minnesota should be disqualifying," Tillis told reporters, according to Time. "She should be out of a job. I mean, really, it's just amateurish." Tillis added that Noem has made Trump look bad, shifting attention away from his policies and onto her incompetence.
Vox reported that Minneapolis residents and anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement protestors claimed at least a partial victory after weeks of demonstrations.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is investigating the killings, Vox reported. However, critics like Vox's Cameron Peters contend that the Trump administration is attempting to sweep Alex Pretti's death "under the rug."
These events highlight the increasing militarization of immigration enforcement under the Trump administration. According to Vox, agents in masks and plate carriers are now a common sight, not only in Minneapolis but also in other cities like Chicago. This shift is attributed to changes in how Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operates and the increased funding allocated to immigration enforcement.
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