WASHINGTON (AP) — Senator Bill Cassidy has criticized the immigration enforcement in relation to the killing of Alex Jeffrey Pretti, emphasizing the implications for the federal government's credibility.

The credibility of ICE and DHS are at stake, Cassidy stated on social media, calling for a thorough joint investigation involving both federal and state authorities.

During his second term, President Donald Trump has faced increasing scrutiny regarding trust in his administration. Amidst conflicting accounts of Pretti's shooting and video evidence that challenges official narratives, trust in government agencies has eroded significantly.

Top officials, including Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, labeled Pretti as the aggressor before an investigation was complete, drawing criticism for premature conclusions.

As trust in the Trump administration dwindles, bipartisan calls for transparent and independent investigations gain traction, with lawmakers stressing the need for maintaining public trust.

The White House has attempted to mitigate tensions, with Trump and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz engaging in discussions characterized as productive, though concerns linger regarding the response to the incident.

Public confidence in the government has historically fluctuated, reaching a low in recent years. Experts note that the credibility concerns facing Trump may be unprecedented in their scale, with potential implications for his administration's legacy.