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Trump Labels Minneapolis Shooting Victim “Agitator” Amid Federal Agents Backlash
After outrage over the deaths of two Americans in Minneapolis, Trump called one victim, Alex Pretti, an “agitator and, perhaps, insurrectionist,” while federal agents face scrutiny and possible drawdowns.
ND
by News Desk
2026-01-30
Trump Labels Minneapolis Shooting Victim “Agitator” Amid Federal Agents Backlash

U.S. President Donald Trump escalated tensions on Friday, branding Alex Pretti—one of two Americans killed by federal agents in Minneapolis during immigration enforcement operations—as an “agitator and, perhaps, insurrectionist,” after earlier efforts to de-escalate public outrage.

Pretti, 37, an intensive care nurse, was shot dead on Saturday, just 11 days after reportedly being involved in a scuffle with federal agents. His death followed the fatal shooting of Renee Good, a mother of three, in the same city weeks earlier, sparking protests against federal immigration raids.

Trump’s remarks on his social media platform Truth Social came amid criticism of the White House’s handling of the situation. He also appointed border chief Tom Homan as a new point man in Minneapolis, who indicated that some federal agents could be withdrawn after weeks of unrest.

Footage circulating online reportedly shows Pretti clashing with agents before being tackled to the ground, though AFP could not immediately verify the video. Trump wrote, “Alex Pretti’s stock has gone way down with the just released video of him screaming and spitting in the face of a very calm and under control ICE Officer.”

Congress is also embroiled in the fallout, with Senate negotiations on a funding deal to prevent a government shutdown focusing on the Department of Homeland Security. Democrats have demanded tighter restrictions on immigration enforcement funding in response to the deaths.

Meanwhile, tech figures including LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman called on others to speak out against the Trump administration’s actions, arguing that “we can’t shrink away and just hope the crisis will fade.”

Homan, speaking in Minneapolis, acknowledged that “certain improvements could and should be made” to the ongoing operation, known as “Operation Metro Surge.” He emphasized cooperation with local authorities and the avoidance of “hateful rhetoric” against federal officers, while planning a drawdown of personnel.

Two agents involved in Pretti’s shooting have been placed on leave. Homan vowed that any federal personnel who breach conduct standards “will be dealt with.” Despite these assurances, some local residents remain skeptical about accountability measures.

The Minneapolis incidents have highlighted tensions over immigration enforcement, federal authority, and public safety, and have fueled debate in both Washington and across the country about the proper role of federal agents in local communities.
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Trump

USPolitics

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