In brief
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has dismissed the idea of deploying active-duty military personnel to aid in immigration enforcement, calling such actions unconstitutional. His remarks come amid ongoing protests in response to enhanced immigration crackdowns in the Twin Cities, where federal officers have increased their presence. Frey encourages demonstrators to maintain peaceful protests and exercise their First Amendment rights while calling for fair treatment of residents. The situation has mobilized Minnesota’s National Guard, though no units have engaged directly yet.
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The mayor of Minneapolis, Jacob Frey, vehemently criticized the idea of deploying active-duty soldiers to assist in immigration crackdowns in Minnesota. He labeled it as 'ridiculous' and 'unconstitutional,' urging protesters to remain peaceful to avoid giving President Trump a reason to send in military forces.
Protests have surged throughout January following an escalation of immigration enforcement operations, with over 2,000 federal officers active in the Minneapolis and St. Paul areas. In response, several local groups, including postal workers, have marched against immigration agents, echoing calls to 'Protect our routes. Get ICE out.'
The Pentagon is reportedly preparing 1,500 soldiers from the 11th Airborne Division in Alaska for potential deployment should the need arise under the Insurrection Act, as some officials have suggested. However, Frey stressed, 'It is not fair, it’s not just, and it’s completely unconstitutional.'
With the Minnesota National Guard already mobilized, no troops have been deployed to the streets yet. However, tensions remain high as graphic accounts and video evidence circulated on social media depict federal agents addressing peaceful protesters with force, underscoring the complex interactions between local residents and federal enforcement efforts.
'These people are by and large citizens and immigrants. But they’re citizens, and they deserve to be here; they’ve earned their place and they are good people,' remarked one protester, highlighting the diversity of the affected communities. As the situation evolves, Mayor Frey remains committed to maintaining peace and order amid ongoing unrest and calls for justice.
