Former Trump adviser Steve Bannon is urging President Donald Trump to take decisive action in Minnesota, calling for the possible use of the Insurrection Act as protests tied to federal immigration enforcement continue across the state.
Speaking in remarks reported by The Wall Street Journal, Bannon argued that recent unrest shows a breakdown of law and order and warned that federal authorities must be allowed to carry out their duties without interference.
According to Bannon, Alex Pretti — who was killed during a federal operation in Minneapolis — attempted to obstruct officers during an active enforcement action.
“He understood exactly what he was doing,” Bannon said. “The violent domestic mob operating in the streets of Minneapolis needs to stand down.”
Rising Scrutiny of ICE Operations
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has faced growing scrutiny in Minnesota following a series of high-profile incidents earlier this month.
In early January, 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good was killed during a separate enforcement operation, drawing national attention. Over the weekend, another confrontation involving federal officers resulted in the death of 37-year-old Alex Pretti, intensifying criticism and sparking new protests.
Additional reports questioning enforcement tactics — including claims made by advocacy groups — have fueled demonstrations in Minneapolis and other cities nationwide.
Conservatives Defend Enforcement Authority
While some Republican officials have called for a review of the circumstances surrounding Pretti’s death, Bannon’s remarks highlight a broader conservative view that federal immigration laws must be enforced firmly and consistently.
The Department of Homeland Security stated that Pretti approached U.S. Border Patrol officers with a 9mm handgun. However, video footage reviewed by multiple news organizations appears to show Pretti holding a cellphone at the moment shots were fired.
Authorities later confirmed that Pretti was legally carrying a firearm and possessed a valid conceal-carry permit. Public records indicate he had no significant criminal history.
Protests Continue Nationwide
Demonstrations opposing ICE operations have continued in Minneapolis and spread to other cities, placing increased pressure on the White House to respond.
Bannon addressed internal Republican criticism during his War Room podcast, arguing that calls for de-escalation ignore years of failed leadership.
“This is the inflection point,” Bannon said. “The same voices urging restraint today are the ones who allowed this chaos to build for decades.”
What Is the Insurrection Act?
The Insurrection Act gives the president authority to deploy federal troops domestically in limited circumstances when states are unable or unwilling to restore order.
First signed into law in 1807, the Act combines several statutes passed between 1792 and 1871 and is codified in Sections 251 through 255 of Title 10 of the U.S. Code.
The law has been used multiple times throughout American history, including during the civil rights era to enforce federal authority and protect constitutional order.
The most recent use occurred in 1992, when President George H.W. Bush authorized federal troops following widespread unrest in Los Angeles.
Trump Signals Option Remains on the Table
President Trump has repeatedly warned that invoking the Insurrection Act remains an option if state and local leaders fail to maintain public safety.
“If the politicians in Minnesota refuse to enforce the law and stop professional agitators from attacking ICE officers, I will institute the INSURRECTION ACT,” Trump wrote on Truth Social earlier this month.
Vice President JD Vance said last week that the administration continues to monitor developments but does not believe the threshold has yet been met.
“At this time, we don’t think it’s necessary,” Vance said.
Political Reactions Intensify
Democrats have pushed back strongly against any suggestion of federal intervention. California Governor Gavin Newsom claimed recent protests were largely peaceful and accused the administration of escalating tensions.
Conservative commentators disagree. Fox News contributor Tomi Lahren said Saturday that if conditions deteriorate further, the Insurrection Act should be seriously considered.
Progressive lawmakers, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, argue that administration rhetoric is laying the groundwork for federal intervention.
As of now, the Trump administration has not formally invoked the Insurrection Act in Minnesota. However, federal immigration enforcement remains active, and political pressure continues to build.