Tensions have been flaring in Minnesota since the federal government launched an immigration crackdown in the Twin Cities in December.
A major flashpoint erupted January 7 when an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis fatally shot Renee Good, a 37-year-old US citizen. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said Good tried to “weaponize her vehicle” and that the agent opened fire out of self-defense. State and local officials have strongly disputed that claim. The deadly shooting, which was captured on video, sparked protests across the country.
Then on January 24, federal agents shot and killed Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old Minneapolis resident. The Department of Homeland Security said he had a handgun and “violently resisted” when agents tried to disarm him. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said videos show that account to be “nonsense” and “lies.” A CNN analysis of video appears to show an officer removing a gun from Pretti just before he was fatally shot.
The state of Minnesota and the Twin Cities are suing the Trump administration, arguing the immigration operation in the state is “a federal invasion,” according to a lawsuit filed on January 12. The lawsuit claims Operation Metro Surge is not a legitimate law enforcement action, but a retaliation effort against Democratic-led Minnesota, citing the president’s disparaging comments toward local officials.
Trump and his administration have said the Constitution gives the federal government broad authority to enforce national immigration laws as the government sees fit.
Here are some of the stories that made headlines over the past week, as well as some photos that caught our eye.
