After a U.S. Border Patrol agent fatally shot 37 year-old Alexi Pretti in Minneapolis on Saturday, President Trump said on Monday he is sending his border advisor Tom Homan to Minnesota as federal immigration tactics face growing backlash, as reported by the LA Times.
Until now, Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino led the immigration crackdown there, but criticism of aggressive raids under Operation Metro Surge appears to have pushed Trump to adjust his approach. Trump said Homan is “tough but fair,” will report directly to him, and will become the main contact on the ground.
Some federal agents, including Bovino, are expected to leave Minneapolis soon, signalling a possible shift in strategy. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz called the shooting deeply troubling and said Trump agreed to discuss reducing the federal presence and allowing a state-led investigation.
Legal challenges, protests, and bipartisan calls for a full investigation are increasing pressure on the administration. While some officials welcome Homan’s arrival, others warn it could further escalate tensions in Minneapolis rather than calm them.
PHOTO: Mike Pence
Meanwhile, former vice-president Mike Pence added his voice of disapproval to a growing chorus of unease over the Pretti killing.
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