Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard recently condemned an attack by anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement protesters at the Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota. This incident, she claims, illustrates her break from the Democratic Party, emphasizing their “hostility toward God.”
Gabbard, who left the Democratic Party in 2022, explained, “One of the main reasons I left is due to their disdain for God and those with faith. The so-called ‘protesters’ who aimed to intimidate innocent families at a church service showcase this hostility. Such behavior is, frankly, appalling and should be rejected by everyone. Those behind these intimidation tactics need to face consequences.”
Back in October 2022, Gabbard, a former member of the Hawaii House of Representatives and ex-presidential candidate for the Democratic Party, declared her departure, accusing her former party of being an “elite cabal of warmongers driven by a vile awakening.”
On Sunday, the protest at Cities Church triggered a backlash from various Christian and political leaders. Videos from the event show protesters shouting demands for justice during the service, with some calling out, “Justice for Renee Good.” This unrest has been escalating in Minnesota, particularly following a shooting incident involving ICE and Renee Nicole Good.
Cities Church has several pastors listed, but it remains unverified whether one of them shares a name with the acting director of ICE’s St. Paul field office. Following the protests, the Justice Department announced they would investigate the situation. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated, “Attacks on law enforcement and threats to people practicing their faith will be addressed with robust legal action.”
In response to the church disruption, William Kelly, an anti-ICE activist, challenged authorities, asserting that if responsible actions aren’t taken, protests will continue. Meanwhile, White House press secretary Caroline Levitt affirmed President Trump’s firm stance against the harassment of Christians in their places of worship.
Furthermore, Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon mentioned that they are examining if the protesters violated laws protecting the right to religious expression.
White House press secretary Abigail Jackson expressed disapproval of the local leaders in Minnesota, stating that they have emboldened these protesters. She emphasized, “The Trump administration will maintain law enforcement vigilance in light of these disturbances.”
