Minnesota Lt Gov Flanagan criticizes the Laken Riley Act at a Sanders rally

Rep. Walz Criticizes Laken-Riley Law

Minnesota’s Lieutenant Governor, Peggy Flanagan, strongly opposed the Laken-Riley Act during a “Stop the Oligarchy” rally last weekend, featuring Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders. This criticism comes as she aims to follow in the footsteps of retiring U.S. Senator Tina Smith in the upcoming Democratic Senate primary.

Flanagan, who is trailing U.S. Representative Angie Craig in current polls, made her remarks in front of an enthusiastic audience. It’s interesting—this situation ties back to some serious incidents, like the shooting of two anti-ICE activists earlier this year, which created tension surrounding immigrant policies in Minnesota.

“We need to pause and reflect on how we got here because this isn’t just a coincidence,” Flanagan stated, implying that former President Trump’s agenda significantly empowered ICE. “This wasn’t something that crept up unnoticed. There was an enormous billboard declaring mass deportation,” she added. The Laken-Riley Act, proposed by Alabama Republican Senator Katie Britt, has faced intense backlash for allegedly stripping immigrants of their rights and enabling prolonged detainment.

Flanagan characterized the legislation as a green light for ICE to exert control over communities. She pointed out a “direct connection” between the Act and the unrest seen in places like Minneapolis. Praising Smith and Senator Amy Klobuchar for voting against it, she expressed disappointment in Craig, who was the only Minnesota Democrat supporting the Act but recently expressed regret about that vote.

Craig mentioned that he felt compelled to support the law based on feedback from his constituents who believed the Biden administration mishandled immigration policies. However, he has since changed his stance, acknowledging that Trump’s actions far exceeded what was lawful and have created a climate of fear among Minnesotans.

At the rally, Flanagan and Sanders were joined by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, who played a notable role during the Minneapolis riots. Meanwhile, the Republican primary is expected to heat up between notable figures like former NBA player Royce White and ex-NBC reporter Michelle Tafoya, as the candidates gear up for the general election where they will face off against the winner of Flanagan and Craig’s contest.

An interesting dynamic exists between Flanagan and Governor Walz, as reports suggest tensions may arise about her aspirations to succeed him as governor.