Minneapolis, MN — US President Donald Trump sparked fresh controversy on Friday after branding Alex Pretti, a nurse fatally shot by federal agents, an “agitator” and “perhaps, insurrectionist.” The remarks come amid growing national backlash over federal operations in Minneapolis, where two American citizens have recently died during immigration enforcement actions.
Pretti, 37, was killed Saturday by officers carrying out an immigration crackdown. Footage circulating online reportedly shows the nurse in a confrontation with federal agents 11 days earlier, including allegedly screaming and spitting at an ICE officer. Trump referred to this footage on his Truth Social platform, writing, “Alex Pretti’s stock has gone way down with the just released video of him screaming and spitting in the face of a very calm and under control ICE Officer.” AFP could not immediately verify the video.
Federal Response and Minneapolis Unrest
The deaths of Pretti and Renee Good, another US citizen shot weeks earlier, have intensified scrutiny of federal immigration operations in the city. In response, Trump appointed border chief Tom Homan as the new point person in Minneapolis, signaling a potential drawdown of federal agents after weeks of public protests against the “Operation Metro Surge” deployment.
Homan, speaking at a press conference Thursday, said “certain improvements could and should be made” and urged residents to avoid “hateful rhetoric” toward federal officers. Among measures being considered is better coordination with ICE on the release dates of incarcerated migrants flagged as public safety risks. Homan emphasized that federal agents who violate conduct standards will be held accountable.
Congressional Pressure Mounts
The Minneapolis crisis has reached Capitol Hill, with Senate lawmakers nearing a vote on a funding deal aimed at preventing a government shutdown. Democrats have demanded that Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding be stripped and renegotiated to impose stricter oversight of immigration enforcement agencies.
Observers have expressed skepticism about the federal drawdown plans. Steven Gagner, a local jewelry designer and citizen observer, told AFP, “This administration has proven time and time again that they just lie to us and they do not really hold themselves or anyone else accountable.”
Trump Continues Inflammatory Rhetoric
Despite attempts at de-escalation, Trump’s rhetoric has remained sharp. He suggested that Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar could have staged an attack after a man sprayed her with a liquid during a public speech. The suspect, Anthony Kazmierczak, now faces both state and federal charges.
Trump’s comments and the ongoing federal operations in Minneapolis continue to fuel national debate over immigration enforcement, police conduct, and accountability, highlighting deepening political and social divisions in the country.
