MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The legal confrontation between Minnesota and the Trump administration’s stringent immigration policies reached a crucial stage Wednesday, as a federal judge refrained from immediately deciding on the state’s request to curtail the federal crackdown.
The request comes amid alarming reports of federal agents forcefully removing individuals from vehicles and clashing with protesters in Minneapolis. Events took a drastic turn after immigration agents were implicated in the fatal shooting of Renee Good, which has led to an increase in public outcry and unrest.
“Urgent action is necessary; we need a cooling-off period,” stated Assistant Attorney General Brian Carter, during the initial hearing of the state’s lawsuit aimed at halting these aggressive federal tactics.
U.S. District Judge Katherine Menendez expressed her intent to expedite the process, granting the U.S. Justice Department until Monday to respond to the restraining order request. Leaders in the community assert that these federal actions infringe upon free speech and various constitutional rights.
“These are significant and serious concerns,” Judge Menendez determined, underscoring the lack of precedents for some critical issues presented in the case.
Government attorney Andrew Warden has indicated support for a more measured timetable, arguing that it is appropriate given the circumstances.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, over 2,000 arrests have occurred in the state since early December, indicating the federal agency’s commitment to continue its operations despite substantial pushback.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey criticized the federal actions, asserting they disproportionately target individuals based on race, particularly Latinos and Somalis, and have even led to the unwarranted detention of U.S. citizens, a reality that has been well-documented by local media.
