Red State Backs Up Trump’s Actions In Minnesota
Texas Governor Greg Abbott is calling on the White House to review and adjust federal immigration operations in Minnesota following two fatal encounters involving federal officers in Minneapolis — incidents that have intensified national debate over immigration enforcement and public safety.
Speaking Monday on The Mark Davis Show on 660 AM The Answer, Abbott emphasized the importance of maintaining public confidence in law enforcement, including officers with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Border Patrol.
“In general, we need to have respect for law enforcement officers across this country,” Abbott said. “ICE officers are law enforcement, and the administration needs to take a serious look at how operations are being carried out to make sure that respect and trust are restored.”
Abbott acknowledged that the situation on the ground is complex, particularly in politically charged environments, but said federal officials appear to be re-evaluating their approach in response to growing tensions.
Two Fatal Incidents Spark National Scrutiny
The governor’s comments follow two separate fatal shootings in Minneapolis involving federal immigration authorities within a matter of weeks.
On Saturday, a Border Patrol agent fatally shot Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old Minneapolis resident who worked as an intensive care nurse. Weeks earlier, an ICE officer was involved in the fatal shooting of Renee Good, also 37, during a separate enforcement encounter in the city.
The back-to-back incidents have fueled criticism from immigration activists and progressive lawmakers, who argue that federal enforcement efforts have escalated too aggressively. Supporters of stronger border enforcement, however, say the broader mission remains necessary to restore law and order and uphold federal immigration law.
Immigration Enforcement Under the Microscope
Throughout President Trump’s second term, immigration has remained one of the most closely watched and politically divisive issues in the country. The administration has defended its enforcement strategy as essential to border security, public safety, and the rule of law, while acknowledging that tragic outcomes demand careful review.
In response to the growing unrest in Minnesota, President Trump said Monday that he had a productive conversation with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Writing on Truth Social, Trump said the two leaders appeared to be “on a similar wavelength” when it comes to addressing the situation and calming tensions.
Trump said Governor Tim Walz reached out to discuss cooperation on Minnesota, calling the conversation productive.
Balancing Enforcement and Public Trust
Abbott’s remarks reflect a broader conversation within Republican leadership about how to enforce immigration laws firmly while maintaining public confidence in federal officers operating in major U.S. cities.
While the administration continues to stand behind its border and immigration policies, officials have signaled that internal reviews are underway to determine whether operational changes are needed to prevent future tragedies.
As investigations continue, the Minneapolis shootings remain a flashpoint in the national immigration debate — highlighting the challenges of enforcing federal law in deeply divided political environments.
