Also suspected of breaking the law are three high-ranking officials in Minnesota, who just received subpoenas from the U.S. Department of Justice. This step is included in a broader inquiry into allegations that Minneapolis city officials colluded to thwart federal immigration enforcement operations. This line of questioning introduces some very important questions about the growing tension between local governance and federal oversight with respect to immigration.
The offices of several other major officials have been subpoenaed. This list includes Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, State Attorney General Keith Ellison, Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty, St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her and Ramsey County Attorney John Choi. Perhaps most notably, the subpoenas demand records concerning dubious immigration enforcement policies and guidance that fledged in early 2022.
Mayor Jacob Frey’s office received a subpoena requesting details on the city’s immigration enforcement practices. In response to the investigation, Frey stated, “We shouldn’t have to live in a country where people fear that federal law enforcement will be used to play politics or crack down on local voices they disagree with.” Above all, he underscored the need for local leaders to be unencumbered in their service to their constituents. They should not have to fear intimidation by the feds.
Governor Tim Walz, whose office was served a subpoena, sounded similar notes as Frey. “When the federal government weaponizes its power to try to intimidate local leaders for doing their jobs, every American should be concerned,” he said. Walz further criticized the investigation as a “partisan distraction,” remarking that Minnesotans prioritize safety and peace over what he described as “baseless legal tactics aimed at intimidating public servants standing shoulder to shoulder with their community.”
These subpoenas take place in a much wider context of advocacy against harmful immigration enforcement practices across the United States. According to some legal experts, the actions being taken by the DOJ do not go far enough to comply with federal laws. They argue that in order to block federal agents, you need physical force beyond expressing disagreement or opposition to their actions.
“This justice department investigation, sparked by calls for accountability in the face of violence, chaos, and the killing of Renee Good, does not seek justice. It is a partisan distraction.” – Tim Walz
As the investigation continues, the growing and collective reactions by local officials indicate a strong and determined front against what they view as federal overreach. We know that Mayor Frey and Governor Walz are committed to keeping their communities safe. They push back and defend against what they view as intimidation tactics from the federal government.