With 1,500 troops reportedly on standby to deploy to Minnesota, tensions are rising in the state as protests continue against Donald Trump's immigration crackdown. US officials say they are targeting the 'worst of the worst', but critics warn that both migrants with no criminal records and US citizens are being detained too.
One resident, using the pseudonym Sunshine for her safety, expressed her concerns amid the increasing presence of unmarked ICE patrol cars in her neighborhood, stating, 'I have decided for my own safety to give them more space.' Residents are actively trying to track and document ICE activities, emphasizing their legal right to observe.
The climate in Minneapolis reflects a battle of wills between a Republican president determined to push the boundaries of his authority and a Democratic city resisting his federal mandates. Recently, tension escalated further following a federal order limiting the use of force by ICE agents against peaceful protesters.
Trump has vowed to persist with his mass deportation drive, insisting that agents in Minnesota are essential for public safety. Following the tragic shooting of Renée Good by an ICE agent, many locals are compelled to protest, aiming to safeguard their community from perceived threats.
In a backdrop rife with unrest, a federal investigation involving actions by local officials adds to the political drama. Trump labeled protesters as 'traitors and troublemakers', and accusations of racial profiling against ICE agents further complicate the situation.
As residents like Misko recount their harrowing encounters with federal agents, a palpable fear lingers in the air. But many, including Sunshine, insist on continuing their efforts to protect their community, showcasing resilience amid an evolving and volatile backdrop of immigration policy.
