In a stark political move, US President Donald Trump has issued a direct call to Democrat governors and mayors across the United States, demanding their formal cooperation with his administration to enforce immigration laws. This appeal comes in the wake of a tragic incident where 37-year-old Alex Pretti was allegedly shot and killed by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on January 24, 2026, sparking renewed debate over immigration policies.
Trump's Four-Point Statement on Immigration Enforcement
Through a detailed social media post, Trump outlined a four-point plan aimed at intensifying the removal of criminal illegal aliens from the country. He specifically named Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Mayor Frey, urging them to "turn over all Criminal Illegal Aliens that are currently incarcerated in their State Prisons and Jails to Federal Authorities." This demand extends to individuals with active warrants or known criminal histories, calling for their immediate deportation.
Key Demands from the Trump Administration
Trump emphasized that state and local law enforcement must agree to hand over all illegal aliens arrested by local police to federal authorities. He stated, "Local Police must assist Federal Law Enforcement in apprehending and detaining Illegal Aliens who are wanted for Crimes." Furthermore, he appealed to Democrat politicians to partner with the federal government to protect American citizens by facilitating the rapid removal of all criminal illegal aliens.
Highlighting examples of cooperation, Trump noted that some Democrats in places like Memphis, Tennessee, and Washington, D.C., have already worked with federal efforts, resulting in safer streets. He framed these requests as rooted in common sense, asserting they would help "MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN" and ensure cities are safe sanctuaries for law-abiding citizens only, not illegal alien criminals.
Context of the Alex Pretti Shooting
Trump's statement was made just a day after the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, an American citizen, by a federal immigration officer. This incident follows weeks after the killing of Rene Good, which had already ignited widespread protests. Trump commented on these events, writing on his Truth Social media network, "Tragically, two American Citizens have lost their lives as a result of this Democrat ensued chaos."
Political Reactions and Legislative Calls
Amid growing unease among some Republicans over the administration's tactics, Trump has refused to back down from his pledge to execute the largest deportation program in US history. Instead, he announced plans to call on Congress to pass legislation banning sanctuary cities, which he described as "the root cause of all of these problems." His administration has been actively labeling communities based on their cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
In another post on Truth Social, Trump accused Minnesota of being a "Criminal COVER UP of the massive Financial Fraud that has gone on," adding a layer of controversy to the ongoing discussions. The Trump Administration has expressed readiness to work with any Democrat willing to collaborate on these matters, aiming to make America safe in all regions through joint efforts with local leadership.
As the nation grapples with these developments, the call for cooperation in immigration enforcement continues to be a polarizing issue, with implications for public safety and political alliances across the United States.