The U.S. Justice Department has launched a formal investigation into Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey for allegedly obstructing federal immigration enforcement operations, according to multiple reports confirmed by sources familiar with the matter.
The probe, initiated by federal prosecutors, centers on accusations that the Democratic officials’ public statements and policies have impeded Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities within the state. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche characterized the officials’ rhetoric as approaching potential federal offenses, specifically citing instances where Mayor Frey allegedly encouraged citizens to report ICE sightings to local emergency services.
While the investigation remains in preliminary stages with no formal charges filed, the Justice Department has issued subpoenas to both officials. The inquiry emerges amidst heightened tensions following the January 7th fatal shooting of 37-year-old U.S. citizen Renee Good during an ICE operation in Minneapolis. The incident triggered nationwide protests and prompted both Walz and Frey to demand cessation of ICE raids in the Twin Cities area, where approximately 2,500 individuals have been apprehended.
Governor Walz condemned the investigation as politically motivated, stating: ‘Weaponizing the justice system and threatening political opponents is a dangerous, authoritarian tactic.’ He notably referenced previous investigations against other Democratic figures while emphasizing that the federal agent involved in Good’s shooting has not faced scrutiny.
The case represents a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between federal immigration authorities and local officials in sanctuary jurisdictions, testing the boundaries of federal-state cooperation in law enforcement operations.