President Donald Trump is urging Congress to pass legislation that would eliminate sanctuary cities, demanding cooperation from every Democratic governor and mayor as his administration advances its immigration enforcement agenda. This call to action follows escalating tensions between federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and anti-ICE protesters. These tensions have intensified after the recent death of Alex Pretti, the second U.S. citizen killed by a federal agent in Minnesota in a matter of weeks.
In a lengthy post on Truth Social, Trump criticized Democratic leadership in Minnesota, specifically targeting Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. He accused them of fostering “Division, Chaos, and Violence,” which he linked to the deaths of Pretti and another individual, Renee Good. Trump asserted that sanctuary cities and states are not cooperating with ICE and are instead encouraging actions that obstruct federal efforts to apprehend serious criminals.
Trump’s post included a demand for Walz and Frey to provide information on individuals living illegally in Minnesota who are currently incarcerated or have active warrants. He also insisted that local law enforcement collaborate with federal authorities to detain illegal immigrants wanted for crimes. He stated, “Democrat Politicians must partner with the Federal Government to protect American Citizens in the rapid removal of all Criminal Illegal Aliens in our Country.”
The former president claimed that his requests are based on “COMMON SENSE” and aimed at ensuring the safety of Americans. He expressed willingness to work with any Democrat willing to collaborate on these issues, emphasizing a need for community protection.
In response, Brian O’Hara, Chief of Police in Minneapolis, addressed these demands during an appearance on CBS’ “Face The Nation.” He clarified that it is not the responsibility of the Minneapolis Police Department to hand over individuals in custody, as jails operate at the county level while prisons are at the state level. O’Hara stated, “We are complying with the law as we have been for many years,” and described the police department as “very, very understaffed and overstretched.”
The dynamics surrounding immigration enforcement and local cooperation continue to be a contentious issue as federal and state authorities navigate the complexities of law enforcement and community safety. Trump’s calls for action and the pushback from local officials highlight the ongoing debate surrounding sanctuary policies and their implications for law enforcement in the United States.
