WASHINGTON (AP) — Concerns among Republican leaders are intensifying regarding federal immigration enforcement tactics following the tragic shooting of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old registered nurse who was protesting U.S. immigration policies in Minnesota. This incident, which saw a U.S. Border Patrol agent shooting Pretti, sparked a wave of criticism and calls for accountability.
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt described the shooting as a real tragedy, emphasizing that it has led to deep concerns among Americans regarding federal tactics. Americans don’t like what they’re seeing right now, Stitt said during an appearance on CNN's State of the Union, indicating the necessity for deeper discussions about immigration enforcement.
When asked whether President Trump should reconsider the deployment of immigration agents in Minnesota, Stitt noted that the president needs to provide clarity and direction on the situation. He remarked, He’s getting bad advice right now, highlighting the urgent need for solutions instead of exacerbating political tensions.
Additional Republicans, such as Senators Thom Tillis of North Carolina and Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, have joined Stitt in expressing their apprehension. Cassidy labeled the shooting as incredibly disturbing and raised concerns regarding the credibility of ICE and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Meanwhile, Tillis insisted on a thorough and impartial investigation, cautioning against premature conclusions that could undermine public trust.
As the debate continues, some administration officials remain firm in defending the hard-line immigration strategies. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, while acknowledging the tragedy of any death, criticized Democratic leaders in Minnesota for allegedly inciting unrest, suggesting that certain individuals are taking advantage of the situation.
There are a lot of paid agitators who are ginning things up, and the governor has not done a good job of tamping this down, Bessent commented on ABC's This Week, reflecting the polarized responses to the incident.
The situation in Minnesota underscores a significant divide within the Republican Party, where concerns about federal tactics and the need for accountability complicate the ongoing narratives around immigration enforcement.
