In a stunning escalation of tensions between state and federal power, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued a “warning order” to the Minnesota National Guard on Wednesday, threatening to deploy state troops to protect Minneapolis from what he called a “national political fight” waged by the Trump administration.
The Governor’s directive, which observers are calling “civil war style rhetoric,” came just hours after a federal agent shot and killed a motorist during an immigration sweep—an incident the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) labeled an act of “domestic terrorism” against its officers.
Walz, visibly furious, delivered a direct ultimatum to President Donald Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
READ: “Get Counseling”: Border Czar Tom Homan Warns The “Road Show” Is Just Beginning
WATCH:
“We do not need any further help from the federal government to Donald Trump and Kristi Noem. You’ve done enough,” Walz declared. “I’ve issued a warning order to prepare the Minnesota National Guard… these National Guard troops are our National Guard troops. Minnesota will not allow our community to be used as a prop in a national political fight.”
Addressing the throngs of protesters gathering at the shooting scene, Walz added, “I feel your anger. I’m angry.”
The Governor’s threat to use state military forces to potentially block or monitor federal law enforcement marks an unprecedented standoff. It serves as a direct counter-strike to the massive federal operation that has deployed 2,000 agents to the Twin Cities to crack down on alleged fraud involving Somali residents.
Walz wrapped up his press conference by calling on other targeted cities, like Chicago and LA, to stand with Minnesota.
The catalyst for Walz’s mobilization was the deadly confrontation near East 34th Street and Portland Avenue earlier in the day. DHS officials stated that ICE officers were conducting targeted operations when “rioters” blocked their path and a woman “weaponized her vehicle,” attempting to run over agents.
READ: “Act Of Domestic Terrorism”: DHS Defends Agent Who Killed Motorist In Minnesota Clash
“An ICE officer, fearing for his life… fired defensive shots,” a DHS Assistant Secretary stated, defending the killing. “This is the direct consequence of constant attacks and demonization of our officers by sanctuary politicians.”
DHS claimed the deceased motorist was a “violent rioter” attempting to kill law enforcement. However, the Governor’s move suggests the state government views the federal presence itself as the primary threat to public safety.
With federal agents holding the perimeter at the crash site and National Guard troops now on standby to intervene, Minneapolis sits on a razor’s edge, caught in a rapidly deteriorating power struggle between the Governor’s mansion and the White House.
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