Washington, DC – US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem launched a scathing attack on Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, accusing him of inciting protesters and fueling violence against law enforcement officers. This came in the wake of the fatal shooting of an immigrant by Secret Service agents during a security operation in Minneapolis.
Details of the incident: “Self-defense”
In a video posted on the “X” platform (formerly Twitter), Noem explained that law enforcement officers were conducting an operation targeting an undocumented immigrant wanted for violent assault.
During the operation, an individual approached U.S. Border Patrol agents carrying a 9mm semi-automatic handgun. The minister added, “The officers attempted to disarm the suspect, but he resisted violently, prompting one of the agents to fire in self-defense and out of concern for his own life and the safety of his colleagues.”
Noem revealed that the deceased was carrying “dozens of rounds,” emphasizing that “he did not come to protest, but to commit violence.”
Political accusations against the governor and the governor
Noem linked the violence on the ground to the political rhetoric in the state, saying, “This violence is directly fueled by the hateful rhetoric of sanctuary politicians in Minnesota.”
She directly accused Governor Tim Walz of “irresponsibility and a long history of corruption and lying.” She also asserted that his statements are what drive protesters to continue their resistance and fuel fear and violence.
Context of the protests in Minneapolis
A new wave of protests erupted in Minneapolis last Friday following this incident, which occurred during a broad federal campaign against illegal immigration.
This is the second such incident in a short period; earlier this month, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer shot a protester in the same city after officers believed she was trying to run them over with her car. This incident reflects the deep divide between the federal government and Minnesota state authorities regarding immigration and law enforcement powers. This situation keeps the city on high alert in the face of recurring protests.
