U.S. News
Minnesota Guard on Standby as Protests Intensify
Clear Facts
- The Minnesota National Guard is prepared for potential activation amid increasing anti-ICE protests.
- Governor Tim Walz has mobilized the Guard to support law enforcement if needed.
- Federal officials are investigating whether local encouragement of protests impeded law enforcement.
Minnesota’s National Guard shared images of troops outfitted with bright yellow reflective vests, indicating their readiness to support law enforcement during ongoing protests against immigration enforcement.
Governor Walz authorized mobilization Saturday, with Guard members on standby to help maintain public order.
“Members of the Minnesota National Guard are on standby, ready to assist local law enforcement and public safety agencies. If our members are activated, they will be wearing reflective vests, as pictured here, to help distinguish them from other agencies in similar uniforms,” the Minnesota National Guard stated.
Officials confirmed that while the Guard has not yet been deployed in the streets, it remains ready to respond if the situation escalates.
The Department of Public Safety reported the Guard was staging alongside emergency management teams due to rising tensions after a recent fatal incident involving an ICE agent.
Anti-ICE demonstrations turned violent, with conservative protesters reportedly targeted by agitators.
Federal authorities are investigating after Democratic officials, including Governor Walz and Mayor Frey, encouraged public assemblies that may have interfered with law enforcement operations.
U.S. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche commented,
“When the governor or the mayor threaten our officers, when the mayor suggests that he’s encouraging citizens to call 911 when they see ICE officers, that is very close to a federal crime.”
The investigation remains in its early stages, with no decisions yet regarding potential charges.
Stay informed as authorities monitor the situation and assess next steps to uphold public safety and order.
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