The U.S. Justice Department is currently examining whether Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey have obstructed federal immigration enforcement efforts with their public statements, according to sources familiar with the situation. The investigation is specifically looking into a potential violation of a conspiracy statute. The sources, who requested anonymity, disclosed this information to The Associated Press.
Initial reports on the investigation were first made by CBS News. In response to these reports, Governor Walz criticized the investigation, drawing parallels to recent instances involving U.S. senators Elissa Slotkin and Mark Kelly, as well as Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. Walz’s office stated that they have not been officially notified of any investigation.
Mayor Frey, on the other hand, condemned the investigation as an attempt to intimidate him for defending Minneapolis against the perceived chaos caused by the current administration. He affirmed his commitment to ensuring the safety of the city.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized on social media that “No one is above the law,” without providing further details on the matter. The investigation coincides with an extensive immigration crackdown in Minneapolis and St. Paul, described by the Department of Homeland Security as its largest operation, resulting in over 2,500 arrests.
The operation escalated following the fatal shooting of Renee Good on January 7, prompting state and local authorities to urge peaceful protest. Governor Walz has encouraged citizens to document any interactions with ICE agents for potential legal action against law enforcement misconduct. Both Walz and Frey have called for an end to the ICE deployment, denouncing it as a hazardous and disruptive deportation initiative.
Deputy U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche recently accused Walz and Frey of instigating confrontations and expressed determination to halt their actions using all available means.