MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey criticized the notion of deploying active duty soldiers to assist with ongoing immigration enforcement efforts in Minnesota, labeling it a 'ridiculous and unconstitutional' proposal. This statement came as protests continue to unfold across the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, prompted by increased federal immigration actions.
The protests originated after the Department of Homeland Security bolstered immigration enforcement by deploying over 2,000 federal officers in the area. Frey emphasized the importance of keeping the demonstrations peaceful to avoid escalating tensions that could prompt federal military intervention.
This sentiment was echoed during a demonstration where U.S. postal workers, among others, rallied under the slogan, 'Protect our routes. Get ICE out,' in a neighborhood frequently patrolled by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers.
Defense officials revealed that approximately 1,500 active-duty soldiers from the Alaska-based 11th Airborne Division stand by for potential deployment, contingent upon a direct order from President Donald Trump invoking the Insurrection Act.
Frey urged the public not to be intimidated by federal actions, voicing that the community's response should remain grounded in their First Amendment rights. 'We won’t be drawn into chaos,' he stated on CNN’s State of the Union.
In parallel, Governor Tim Walz has activated the Minnesota National Guard, though no units have been mobilized on the streets yet. The protests are a response to ICE actions, including a recent incident involving the death of a U.S. citizen during a confrontation.
Residents have expressed concern over aggressive tactics employed by federal officers, raising questions regarding their safety during localized immigration enforcement initiatives.
A recent court ruling has further complicated the operational landscape for federal officers, restricting their ability to detain peaceful protesters who are observing their actions.
The ongoing situation reflects deep community divisions regarding immigration policies and law enforcement practices, with both sides calling for understanding and dialogue as tensions remain high.
