ICE agents in Minnesota have adopted a chilling new slogan in the aftermath of the tragic death of Renee Good in the city recently. Several videos have surfaced showing officers intimidating peaceful protesters to desist from following them or complying with their instructions. Many of them are heard asking, “Have you not learned?” in connection to an ICE agent fatally shooting the mother of three in Minneapolis last Wednesday.
The influx of anti-Migrant personnel under Donald Trump’s command into the state has persisted, leading to escalating tensions. Good was fatally shot by an ICE officer, receiving three gunshot wounds while attempting to maneuver her car around him before driving away. Despite clear video evidence showing she posed no threat to the officer or those nearby, Trump administration officials labeled her a “domestic terrorist” and defended the agent’s actions as self-defense.
In response to the Justice Department’s handling of the incident, at least five prosecutors, including First Assistant US Attorney Joe Thompson, have resigned. The Department of Homeland Security has committed to deploying over 2,000 immigration officers to Minnesota. In light of this, the state, in conjunction with Minneapolis and St. Paul, filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump’s administration on Monday to halt or restrict the surge.
The lawsuit alleges that Homeland Security’s actions violate the First Amendment and other constitutional rights by targeting a progressive state that leans towards Democrats and embraces immigrants. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey expressed concern over the significant impact of the federal agents on daily life in the city due to their massive presence. A judge has scheduled a status conference for Wednesday.
Homeland Security has reported over 2,000 arrests in the state since early December and is steadfast in its commitment to continue its operations. In response to the lawsuit, spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin accused Minnesota officials of disregarding public safety. Meanwhile, ICE agents engaged in further confrontations by deploying tear gas and eye irritants against activists, while students staged a walkout at a suburban school to protest the immigration raids.
