In February 2024, an improvised explosive device (IED) was detonated outside the Attorney General’s office in Montgomery, Alabama, by individuals associated with Antifa. These devices, filled with nails and metal shards, were designed to inflict serious harm. Had the device been positioned slightly differently or had someone been on site at that time, it could have resulted in tragic consequences.
Fortunately, there were no injuries, and the individual responsible was apprehended. Yet, this incident highlighted a troubling trend: the normalization of political violence disguised as legitimate expression.
Sadly, many civic leaders are implicitly encouraging this form of activism, believing that the intensity of these feelings can justify inappropriate actions.
Driven by a disregard for ethics and common sense, these politically charged individuals are eager to engage in dramatic activism. Recently, federal authorities focused their attention on Minneapolis, investigating widespread taxpayer fraud primarily linked to Somali immigrants who received substantial government contracts for non-existent child care facilities.
When ICE initiated actions related to this investigation, including a raid that involved the wrongful death of a law enforcement officer, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey urged ICE to “get these people out of Minneapolis.” On a recent episode of ABC’s “This Week,” Senator Amy Klobuchar expressed, “They need to get out of our state because they’re not making us safer, they’re making us less safe.”
This kind of rhetoric positions law enforcement as adversaries, instead of those who violate the law, further inflaming an already volatile situation.
It’s disheartening to see Democratic leaders like Frey repeating past mistakes. Such rhetoric creates an environment where unruly activism is seen as acceptable, sending a message to emotionally driven individuals that any disruptive behavior is justified. Having narrowly escaped political violence myself, I am acutely aware of the dire consequences that arise from a lack of respect for civility and the rule of law. I’ve witnessed similar destructive trends take root in Minneapolis.
Recently, a disruptive group invaded Cities Church during a service, much to the distress of parents trying to comfort their frightened children. They accused the pastor, who previously worked for ICE, of mistreatment. Former CNN anchor Don Lemon even participated in this disturbance, livestreaming the events as they unfolded. According to Lemon, this was part of “Operation Suspension,” a planned effort to confront Christians and impede their religious practices.
The response from Democratic leaders was predictable. As the mob asserted its moral high ground, the illegal nature of their actions was glossed over. The media downplayed the situation, framing it as a “peaceful protest” by concerned citizens. However, this directly contradicts a legal framework meant to prosecute those who use intimidation or force to obstruct others’ rights, such as religious freedom. It’s striking that the Biden administration has employed this very law against peaceful pro-life advocates, yet remains silent on the discord in Minneapolis, which embodies these very issues.
This pattern of behavior isn’t new. It traces back to the aftermath of George Floyd’s death, which sparked protests used as a cover for rioting and looting under the pretext of justice. During the summer of 2020, unchecked political rhetoric led to significant destruction in Minneapolis, causing extensive damage to neighborhoods and businesses, many owned by immigrants and minorities.
We can’t afford to let this happen again—doing so has real and devastating consequences.
President Trump aimed to restore integrity to immigration policy, pledging to hold accountable those who take advantage of our systems. In addressing the Minneapolis fraud case, he is following through on that promise.
The American populace deserves leaders who protect their rights without resorting to political expediency. Radical tactics only serve to benefit a few, especially those at the bottom of the socioeconomic ladder or those wanting to express their thoughts openly.
Having been a target of the very extremist forces currently active in Minneapolis, I strongly believe the only effective response to such threats is a steadfast commitment to treat them seriously, to prosecute offenders fully, and to safeguard law-abiding citizens from harassment and violence.
As the chief law enforcement officer of my state, I’ve seen that violent offenders, including those fueled by political extremism, are deterred only when there’s a strong belief that they will face consequences for their actions.
Leaders must focus on upholding the rule of law and avoid incendiary language to prevent further assaults on offices, churches, and communities. The situation is escalating, and those in power need to choose whether to maintain order or allow chaos to prevail.
I know which side I’m on.
