Some Republican politicians believe the Trump administration is squandering its strongest assets. In their opinion, the party wasted its public support by focusing on the fight against migration and not on what worries Americans most, i.e. the cost of living.
On January 7, an ICE immigration officer shot and killed mother of three Renee Good. On Saturday, January 24, a member of the Border Guard killed an incapacitated 37-year-old nurse, Alex Pretti.
Republicans fear that protests against bloodshed may result in further tragedies. In the face of the crisis, the Republican Party is worried about the election results, and the president himself talks about impending impeachment. Despite this, he continues on his way – experts emphasize that he found himself in a dead end at his own request.
What are Republican politicians doing to address a situation that could prove disastrous for the country and their political future? Most politicians hope that one of their colleagues will take up the task of explaining to Trump what the problem is. However, none of them wants to offend the president.
“Can you talk to them? [członkami gabinetu Trumpa]” — is a phrase that often appears in conversations between leading Republicans these days.
There is hope among Republican officials that they will not have to reveal their true feelings. They hope that if they wait a few days, the president will finally realize the seriousness of the crisis.
In an interview with the Wall Street Journal's Josh Dawsey, Trump refused to say the officer who killed Alex Pretti did the right thing. He stated that “we are reviewing everything and will make a final decision.”
This came just a day after Trump, like his advisers, justified the killing.
The article continues below the video
On Monday morning, Trump took specific steps to marginalize Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noemi and Border Patrol Commander Greg Bovino, who are associated with the activities of federal services in Minnesota. The president appointed a new person responsible for anti-emigration activities in the state and created a new command structure.
“I'm sending Tom Homan to Minnesota tonight,” the president announced, referring to the immigration policy attorney. “He has not been involved in the region so far, but he knows and likes many of the people who live there. Tom is tough but fair and will report directly to me.”
“We must enforce our laws in a way that protects the public.”
Republicans blame Trump's advisers rather than risk angering the president. “Currently [Trump] he's getting bad advice,” Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt said on CNN on Sunday, January 25.
Senator Thom Tillis went even further, stating: “Any administration official who rushes to judgment and tries to shut down an investigation before it even begins does enormous harm to the nation and President Trump's legacy.”
In a television interview, Congressman James Comer stated, “Of course we should get federal immigration officials out of Minnesota and end this charade.” In an interview on Fox News he said:
If I were President Trump, I would think to myself: If the mayor and governor are going to put our ICE officers in danger and there is a risk of losing more innocent lives, maybe it would be better to move to another city and let the people of Minneapolis decide for themselves whether they still want to have all these illegal immigrants?
Protest in Minneapolis, January 23, 2026.Alex Kormann/The Minnesota Star Tribune via Getty Images/contributor/Getty Images
There are more critical voices, but some are more cautious. “As I often say, I support the Border Patrol, ICE and their critical work in enforcing our laws,” said Senator David McCormick. “Irresponsible rhetoric and lack of cooperation from Minnesota politicians are fueling a dangerous situation. We need a full investigation into the tragedy in Minneapolis. We need all the facts.”
The Republican added: “We must enforce our laws in a way that protects the public while maintaining their trust. This gives our law enforcement officers the best chance of success in their difficult mission.”
Senator Bill Cassidy went further than most of his colleagues, saying the obvious: “the credibility of ICE and DHS is at stake.”
House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Andrew Garbarino has asked ICE officers to testify before his committee. “Congress has an important responsibility to ensure the safety of law enforcement and the people law enforcement serves and protects,” Garbarino said.
Neither Alex Pretti nor Renee Good were able to give a statement before they were brutally killed. Now Republicans are rushing to correct the tragic mistakes made by ICE. However, it is unlikely that they will succeed.
I’m Ashley Davis as an editor, I’m committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in every piece we publish. My work is driven by curiosity, a passion for truth, and a belief that journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. I strive to tell stories that not only inform but also inspire action and conversation.
