A growing faction of Republican lawmakers is advocating for a comprehensive investigation into federal immigration practices following the fatal shooting of a man by a U.S. Border Patrol agent in Minneapolis. The incident, which resulted in the death of **Alex Pretti**, a **37-year-old** intensive care nurse at a VA hospital, has prompted bipartisan calls for accountability regarding the actions of the Trump administration.
In a statement, the chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, **Rep. Andrew Garbarino** (R-N.Y.), emphasized the importance of oversight, saying, “my top priority remains keeping Americans safe.” He has requested testimony from leaders at **Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)**, **Customs and Border Protection**, and **U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services**. This aligns with the sentiments expressed by other prominent Republicans, including former committee chairman **Rep. Michael McCaul** (R-Texas) and Senators **Thom Tillis** (R-N.C.), **Bill Cassidy** (R-La.), and **Lisa Murkowski** (R-Alaska).
The shooting of Pretti has raised significant concerns regarding the GOP’s stance on various issues, including gun ownership and trust in federal authorities. Cassidy, who faces a challenge from a Trump-backed opponent in his reelection bid, described the incident as “incredibly disturbing” and underscored the need for a “full joint federal and state investigation.” Tillis, not seeking reelection, echoed this sentiment, stating that any official who attempts to prematurely close the investigation is doing a disservice to the nation.
Murkowski also called for an inquiry, asserting that “ICE agents do not have carte blanche in carrying out their duties.” These statements indicate a fissure within the party regarding the administration’s hardline immigration tactics, particularly in light of the shooting.
Administration officials have defended their enforcement strategies in Minnesota, attributing blame to local Democrats and law enforcement agencies for not cooperating. Many Republicans have either aligned with this perspective or remained silent. Notably, **President Trump** did not make public appearances following the shooting, although he did share various social media posts on unrelated topics.
The event has ignited a debate within the GOP, particularly as it prepares for a challenging midterm election year. Many party members are grappling with how to respond to the implications of the shooting, especially as Trump seeks to define Pretti, who had protested the administration’s immigration policies, as a violent protester. Deputy White House chief of staff **Stephen Miller** referred to Pretti in stark terms, labeling him an “assassin” and “domestic terrorist,” while **Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem** suggested that Pretti was there to “impede a law enforcement operation.”
Responses from state governors have highlighted the gravity of the situation. **Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt** described the shooting as a “real tragedy” and urged Trump to clarify the administration’s objectives regarding immigration enforcement. He stated, “Nobody likes the feds coming to their states,” and questioned whether Americans supported a goal of deporting all non-U.S. citizens.
**Vermont Governor Phil Scott** expressed that the shooting was “not acceptable,” asserting that federal immigration operations must improve coordination with local law enforcement. He described the current state of affairs as either a “complete failure of coordination” or as “deliberate federal intimidation.”
**Rep. James Comer** (R-Ky.) has suggested that the administration should consider reallocating its immigration efforts to avoid placing ICE officials in potential danger, indicating a level of frustration with local leadership in Minnesota. “If I were President Trump, I would almost think about if the mayor and the governor are going to put our ICE officials in harm’s way… then maybe go to another city,” he stated during an interview.
The implications of Pretti’s death come at a critical moment for the Republican Party, which is facing significant challenges on multiple fronts. Trump’s international actions have also contributed to a sense of chaos, as seen in his recent tensions with NATO and Canada. Domestically, approval ratings for his handling of immigration have seen a decline, dropping to **38%** in January from **49%** in March, according to an **AP-NORC poll**.
As the GOP navigates these unfolding issues, the demand for transparency and accountability regarding immigration enforcement may reshape the party’s dynamics in the lead-up to the upcoming elections.
