Minnesota’s two Democratic U.S. senators are escalating their public confrontation with President Donald Trump’s administration, demanding that federal immigration authorities withdraw from the state following another officer-involved shooting in Minneapolis.
The latest incident occurred Saturday during a federal law-enforcement operation. Authorities have stated that the individual involved was armed, though officials say the situation remains under review as more details are gathered.
Despite the ongoing investigation, Sen. Tina Smith quickly called for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to leave Minnesota, arguing that local police should handle public safety matters without federal involvement. Her comments were posted publicly on social media shortly after the incident.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar echoed those demands, sharply criticizing the Trump administration and Republicans in Congress. She accused federal leaders of remaining silent while calling for ICE to be removed from the state altogether.
The remarks come as federal immigration enforcement efforts in Minnesota have intensified under President Trump’s renewed push to restore border security and enforce existing immigration laws. The administration has repeatedly argued that ICE operations are aimed at removing dangerous offenders and strengthening public safety nationwide.
Minneapolis has seen multiple recent encounters involving federal agents, each drawing significant political attention. Supporters of the administration note that federal officers operate under strict rules of engagement and often face dangerous situations while carrying out lawful duties.
Critics, however, say the increased federal presence has contributed to heightened tensions between Washington and local Democratic leaders — tensions that are now playing out publicly as the 2026 election cycle approaches.
The Trump administration has defended its immigration strategy, emphasizing that enforcing federal law is not optional and that states cannot selectively block federal authorities from doing their jobs.
As investigations continue, the clash highlights a broader national divide: whether immigration enforcement should be dictated by federal law or resisted by local political leaders — a debate that is increasingly shaping America’s political landscape.