The White House supported federal immigration enforcement in Minnesota and dismissed criticism of its handling of a recent shooting in Minneapolis. President Donald Trump directed senior officials to urge state and local authorities to collaborate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Trump was monitoring the situation closely, emphasizing the restoration of “law and order” in Minnesota.
Leavitt mentioned ongoing investigations by Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, and Customs and Border Protection into the Minneapolis incident. She highlighted the importance of allowing the investigations to proceed based on facts. The administration accused Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey of obstructing federal immigration law enforcement, leading to risky situations for federal officers.
The White House outlined demands to address the issue, including transferring illegal immigrants from state prisons to federal custody for deportation and enhancing cooperation among law enforcement levels. Leavitt clarified that implementing these measures could negate the need for increased ICE presence. The administration refuted claims of premature conclusions regarding the shooting, expressing condolences for the loss of life and emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation.
Responding to criticism from Democratic officials, Leavitt condemned comparisons of ICE agents to “Nazi Gestapo” as unacceptable, attributing such rhetoric to escalating tensions. The White House confirmed the deployment of Tom Homan, a border czar, to Minneapolis at Trump’s behest to collaborate with local authorities and address the unrest. Leavitt affirmed Trump’s confidence in Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and reiterated the administration’s stance on ending sanctuary city policies to enhance public safety.
