Investigation into Minnesota Leaders for Obstructing Federal Law Enforcement

The Justice Department is looking into whether Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey obstructed federal law enforcement efforts, according to a source familiar with the situation.

Various news outlets reported on Saturday that this investigation is underway, citing multiple sources.

Deputy U.S. Attorney Todd Blanche commented that both the mayor and the governor have been using divisive language against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which has potential implications for federal crimes following a tragic incident involving a Minneapolis woman who defied ICE orders and used her vehicle aggressively.

“For a governor or a mayor to threaten an employee or suggest that citizens should call 911 upon seeing an ICE agent is extremely close to crossing a legal line,” Blanche stated.

Attorney General Pam Bondi took to social media to remind Minnesotans that “No one is above the law.”

On Friday, the DOJ delivered subpoenas to both Walz and Frey, with further reports confirming this development.

In response to the news of the inquiry, Walz remarked, “Using the justice system against political opponents is a tactic of an authoritarian regime.”

Frey also expressed his views, stating, “This is a clear attempt to intimidate me as I stand up for our city against the chaos brought by this administration. I will not be intimidated.”

The investigation stems from a tragic event on January 7, where Renee Good allegedly pursued ICE officers and obstructed a road with her vehicle, while her partner filmed the encounter. Reports suggest her partner is linked to a local “ICE Watch” group. When ICE agents instructed Good to exit the car, her partner encouraged her to flee, resulting in an incident where federal agents fired shots, fatally injuring a 37-year-old man.

Following this incident, Mayor Frey had strong words for ICE, stating, “To ICE: Get out of Minneapolis,” and held the agency responsible for the loss of life.

Shortly after, Walz mentioned that he had issued a warning order regarding the potential deployment of the Minnesota National Guard, claiming the state was “at war with the federal government.”

Furthermore, they urged for peaceful demonstrations against federal enforcement measures and cautioned the public not to fall for any provocation. Walz noted that the administration under President Trump is inciting “violence in the streets.”

In a public address, Walz also encouraged individuals to document any misconduct by federal agents to build a record for potential future actions, reinforcing the public’s right to peacefully film ICE operations.

“Help us document exactly what is happening in our communities. You have the right to film ICE agents in action. Carry your phone and record any incidents,” the governor urged.