President Donald Trump has called on Congress to pass legislation aimed at abolishing sanctuary cities, urging Democratic governors and mayors to cooperate with his administration as it implements its immigration enforcement agenda. This demand follows escalating tensions between federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and protesters in Minnesota, particularly after the death of local resident Alex Pretti over the weekend. Pretti marks the second U.S. citizen killed by a federal agent in Minnesota within a few weeks.
In a lengthy post on Truth Social on Sunday night, Trump criticized Democratic leaders, specifically Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, claiming they exacerbate division and violence. He directly linked their policies to the recent deaths of Pretti and another individual, Renee Good.
Trump’s Demands and Accusations
Trump’s statement highlighted his belief that “Democrat-run sanctuary cities and states are refusing to cooperate with ICE.” He accused these jurisdictions of encouraging “leftwing agitators” to obstruct federal operations aimed at apprehending individuals he described as “the worst of the worst.” According to Trump, such actions place illegal immigrant criminals ahead of law-abiding citizens, creating perilous situations.
In a follow-up post, Trump outlined specific demands for Democratic leadership. He called for Walz and Frey to hand over individuals living illegally in Minnesota who are currently incarcerated or have active warrants. He also requested that local police collaborate with federal authorities in detaining illegal immigrants wanted for crimes.
“Democrat politicians must partner with the federal government to protect American citizens in the rapid removal of all criminal illegal aliens in our country,” Trump stated. He emphasized that some Democrats in cities like Memphis, Tennessee, and Washington, D.C., have successfully collaborated with federal authorities, leading to safer streets.
Local Law Enforcement’s Response
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara responded to Trump’s comments during an interview on CBS’ “Face the Nation.” He emphasized that it is not the responsibility of the Minneapolis Police Department to transfer detainees, as local law enforcement does not operate jails. “We are complying with the law as we have been for many years,” O’Hara remarked, stressing the challenges faced by the department due to understaffing and resource constraints.
The ongoing debate surrounding immigration enforcement and sanctuary cities continues to evoke strong reactions across the political spectrum. Trump’s latest remarks underscore the administration’s unwavering focus on immigration issues as a central theme of its policy agenda.
As tensions rise in Minnesota and across the nation, the call for cooperation from local and federal authorities remains a contentious point in the broader discussion about immigration policy. The situation highlights the complex interplay of law enforcement, local governance, and national policy in addressing one of the most divisive issues in contemporary American politics.
