AOC urges Senate Democrats to block ICE funding after Minneapolis shooting

WASHINGTON, DC: Rep Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez intensified her criticism of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement over the weekend, urging Senate Democrats to block the agency’s funding after a fatal shooting in Minneapolis sparked renewed protests.

The New York Democrat’s comments came as tensions in the Twin Cities remained high following repeated clashes between federal agents and local residents. The latest incident involved the death of 37-year-old Alex Jeffrey Pretti during a federal operation, drawing national attention and renewed debate over ICE’s enforcement tactics.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez calls for action after Minneapolis federal shooting

In a post on X, Ocasio-Cortez accused the federal government of using excessive force against civilians and urged immediate action from Senate Democrats.

“Americans are being killed in the street by their government. Our Constitution is being shredded and our rights are dissolving. Resist. Senate Dems should block ICE funding this week. Activate the National Guard,” she wrote.

The remarks mark one of the strongest demands from a sitting lawmaker to restrict ICE funding following the Minneapolis shooting, which occurred as agents attempted to arrest a criminal migrant.

Federal officials say protester posed deadly threat

Authorities defended the use of lethal force, saying Pretti brandished a weapon and posed an immediate threat. US Border Patrol officials called the shooting an act of self-defense.

“This looks like a situation where an individual wanted to do maximum damage and massacre law enforcement,” said Border Patrol Commander-at-Large Gregory Bovino. Officials emphasized that agents had no choice but to respond to the threat.

Minneapolis sees multiple federal shootings this month

Pretti’s death marked the third instance this month in which federal agents discharged their weapons in Minneapolis, further heightening tensions.

Earlier incidents, including the killing of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent, triggered days of protests across the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area. Demonstrators demanded ICE leave the city, accusing the agency of escalating violence.

Progressive leaders demand broader ICE reforms

Ocasio-Cortez was joined by other progressive figures, including New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, who condemned ICE and called for the agency’s abolition.

The growing criticism from lawmakers and activists highlights a push to recast ICE as a destabilizing force, particularly in cities experiencing repeated clashes between residents and federal agents.