A growing number of Republican lawmakers are advocating for a comprehensive investigation into federal immigration practices in Minnesota following the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Alex Pretti by a U.S. Border Patrol agent. This incident has raised questions about the handling of immigration enforcement and the response from federal agencies, indicating a potential shift in bipartisan scrutiny of the Trump administration’s policies.
Andrew Garbarino, Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, has formally requested testimony from leaders at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). He emphasized that maintaining public safety remains his top priority. Several other prominent Republicans, including Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas, Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina, Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, and Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, have echoed this call for further inquiry into the incident.
Pretti, an intensive care nurse at a Veterans Affairs hospital, was killed during a federal immigration enforcement operation. His death has prompted concern among GOP members regarding their party’s stance on issues such as gun rights and trust in federal authorities. Cassidy, facing a challenge from a Trump-backed opponent in his reelection bid, described the shooting as “incredibly disturbing,” asserting that the credibility of ICE and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is at stake. He advocated for a comprehensive federal and state investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Tillis, who is not seeking reelection, insisted on the need for a “thorough and impartial investigation,” warning against any administration official who prematurely concludes the investigation. Murkowski has also called for a review, stating that ICE agents should not have unrestricted authority in executing their duties. Collins, marking a critical reelection year, expressed the necessity of probing whether excessive force was applied in a situation that could potentially have been resolved without violence.
While urging protesters to maintain a safe distance from law enforcement, Collins recognized the public’s right to demonstrate and the complexities faced by federal agents in high-pressure situations. Even Sen. Pete Ricketts, a loyal supporter of Trump, advocated for a “prioritized, transparent investigation,” reaffirming his support for funding ICE while stressing the need to uphold core national values, including the right to protest.
In response to the shooting, Trump and his administration have defended their stringent immigration enforcement tactics, placing blame on Minnesota’s Democratic leadership and local law enforcement for not collaborating effectively. In a lengthy social media post, Trump demanded that Minnesota’s leaders formally cooperate with federal authorities and urged Congress to eliminate so-called sanctuary cities.
As the GOP navigates this sensitive situation, it faces challenges ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. Trump’s handling of immigration, historically a strong point for him and the party, has seen declining approval ratings, with only 38% of U.S. adults expressing satisfaction with his approach as of January 2024, down from 49% in March 2023, according to an AP-NORC poll.
The aftermath of Pretti’s death has sparked significant debate regarding gun rights within the party. Although officials indicated that Pretti was armed at the time of the incident, bystander footage has not substantiated claims that he was brandishing a weapon. The Minneapolis police chief confirmed that Pretti possessed a permit to carry a firearm. Nonetheless, administration officials, including DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, have raised questions about the decision to carry a weapon during protests.
The National Rifle Association has emphasized that the right to bear arms should not be compromised, stating, “Every peaceable Minnesotan has the right to keep and bear arms — including while attending protests.” Similarly, Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky asserted that “carrying a firearm is not a death sentence,” defending the constitutional right to do so.
The tension surrounding immigration enforcement and gun rights highlights a critical moment for the GOP as it seeks to balance its foundational policies while addressing emerging public concerns. As discussions continue, the call for an investigation reflects the evolving dynamics within the party and its approach to federal law enforcement practices.
