GOP candidate Chris Madel withdraws Minnesota governor bid over 'unconstitutional' federal crackdown

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA: Republican gubernatorial candidate Chris Madel ended his bid for Minnesota governor on Monday, January 26, citing opposition to what he described as punitive federal actions affecting state residents.

Madel said that he could not continue as a candidate while national Republican leaders supported policies he believed undermined constitutional protections.

His announcement came as Minnesota faced heightened scrutiny and tension over federal immigration enforcement activity. Madel had been one of several Republicans competing for the party’s nomination in the race for governor.

Chris Madel ends campaign citing objections to federal actions

In a statement announcing his withdrawal, Madel said that he could no longer support what he characterized as retaliatory actions directed at Minnesotans.

“I can't support national Republicans' state retribution on the citizens of our state, nor can I count myself a member of a party that would do so,” he said.

Madel criticized 'Operation Metro Surge', saying it had moved beyond its stated objectives. 

“Operation Metro Surge has expanded far beyond its stated focus on true public safety threats,” he said. “United States citizens, particularly those of Color, live in fear. United States citizens are carrying papers to prove their citizenship. That's wrong.”

He also raised concerns about the use of law enforcement and investigations in political contexts.

“Weaponizing criminal investigations against political opponents is unconstitutional regardless of who is in power,” Madel said.

Madel appeared on WCCO’s 'Sunday Morning with Esme Murphy' slightly more than a week before ending his campaign, where he alleged that Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey was directing the Minneapolis Police Department to oppose federal immigration enforcement efforts.

Before dropping out, Madel was part of a crowded Republican field seeking the governorship.

Other candidates included Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, 2022 Republican nominee Dr Scott Jensen, US Army veteran and business owner Kendall Qualls, and Minnesota Rep Kristin Robbins.

His exit narrowed the field as the race continued to unfold against the backdrop of escalating federal-state tensions.

Trump says he will send Border Czar Tom Homan to Minnesota

President Donald Trump said on Monday that he planned on sending Border Zzar Tom Homan to Minnesota, announcing the move on social media. 

“He has not been involved in that area, but knows and likes many of the people there,” Trump said. “Tom is tough but fair, and will report directly to me.”

Homan, who was appointed border czar ahead of Trump’s second term, had previously vowed to “run the biggest deportation operation this country's ever seen.”

He had also said that Immigration and Customs Enforcement would carry out the administration’s plans in a “humane manner.”

The announcement came as Minnesota law enforcement leaders sought dialogue with the White House.

The Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association requested a meeting with Trump, calling it “constructive and timely” given what it described as “complex, high-pressure environments” facing officers across the state. 

The group emphasized the need for “thoughtful leadership and responsible communication” to avoid escalating tensions, while stressing that officer safety and public trust remained interconnected priorities.

The association said greater dialogue among federal and state leaders was essential to maintaining public confidence and public safety.