Minnesota Democrat Shares ICE Agent Locations on Social Media, Educates Constituents on Identifying Unmarked Vehicles

Rep. Brad Tabke Documents ICE Agent Sightings

On Thursday, Democratic Representative Brad Tabke from Minnesota shared over 20 updates on his X account about sightings of ICE agents in the Shakopee, Prior Lake, and Savage regions, which are suburbs located about 25 miles from Minneapolis.

Throughout the day, he provided real-time information regarding the location of ICE vehicles, mentioning spots close to gas stations, Paneras, and shopping centers in Southbridge. He also offered guidance on recognizing unmarked ICE cars. For instance, he pointed out that vehicles might lack front plates, have tinted windows, or display tactical gear.

In one of his posts, Tabke asserted, “Law enforcement must be transparent, follow the law, and not instill fear or intimidation.” He defended his social media activities, stating they were protected under the U.S. Constitution, which he is committed to upholding.

Additionally, Tabke had created a website called ICE Watch where supporters could report sightings of ICE agents. However, a source noted that the site has been taken down.

Some conservative commentators have called for Tabke’s resignation and even suggested potential legal charges against him. One commentator mentioned the possibility of RICO charges, indicating that there might be some serious legal repercussions.

Whether Tabke’s actions are legally permissible is still a topic of debate. Legal experts have indicated that documenting ICE activities is mainly protected under the First Amendment, provided it does not interfere with their operations. Courts have affirmed the right to record law enforcement in public areas.

However, the legal landscape is complex. An attorney from the Electronic Frontier Foundation cautioned that if activists are not just observing but actively advising people to evade ICE or interfere with their work, that could lead to legal troubles.

Per federal law, it is illegal to shield undocumented immigrants from detection, which could include warning them about potential enforcement actions. Violating this law could result in significant penalties.

Tabke has had a checkered political career, first serving in the Minnesota House from 2019 to 2021 before losing reelection. He made a comeback in 2023 and narrowly won his seat in 2024. Currently, he chairs the Transportation Finance and Policy Committee and is involved in other policy committees.

This situation intensified following the shooting of 37-year-old U.S. citizen Renee Nicole Good by an ICE officer on January 7, an incident that has sparked major protests in Minneapolis, demanding ICE leave the area.