Kamala Harris slams Trump admin over ICE shooting in Minneapolis: 'The explanation is gaslighting'

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA: Former Vice President Kamala Harris sharply criticized the Trump administration after ICE agents shot and killed a woman during an operation in Minneapolis, calling the federal government’s explanation of the incident “pure gaslighting” and backing a state-led investigation.

Harris’ remarks come as graphic footage of the shooting circulates online and protests intensify across the city.

Kamala Harris condemns Trump, draws immediate backlash

Reacting on X, Harris condemned the Trump administration and praised Minnesota Gov Tim Walz for stepping in to ensure an independent review of the shooting.

Harris, in her post, questioned the credibility of the Trump administration’s account.

“Today in Minneapolis, ICE agents shot and killed a woman in a shocking incident,” Harris wrote. “Governor Walz has announced the state will ensure a fair investigation, and I am grateful for his swift action.”

She went on to directly challenge federal officials, saying, “Many of us have seen the horrifying and painful video, which makes it clear that the Trump administration’s explanation of this shooting is pure gaslighting.”

“A full and fair investigation at the state level is absolutely necessary,” Harris added.

The post immediately drew sharp pushback online, with commentators accusing Harris of selectively interpreting the footage and omitting context.

One social media user wrote: “Why don’t you post the video? Oh right, it would destroy your narrative.”

Other commentators echoed similar claims, arguing the video supports ICE’s version of events.

Democrats blame Donald Trump for shooting

Kamala Harris was not alone in blaming Trump and slamming ICE. 

Several Minnesota Democrats have sharply disputed the Department of Homeland Security’s account of the fatal ICE shooting, with Governor Tim Walz leading the pushback.

“I’ve seen the video,” Walz said, urging the public to “not believe this propaganda machine” and pledging a “full, fair and expeditious investigation to ensure accountability and justice.”

Senator Tina Smith described the situation in Minneapolis as “volatile,” calling on ICE to “leave now for everyone’s safety.” 

House Democrats echoed those demands, with Rep Kelly Morrison calling early reports “horrific” and demanding “full transparency and accountability”.

Rep Betty McCollum urged DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to “immediately cease and desist” ICE operations, accusing the agency of “grossly unprofessional conduct” that was “needlessly causing chaos.” 

The Democratic Party’s official X account also weighed in, writing: “ICE shot and killed a woman on camera today. We all saw the video. The Trump administration is lying.”

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison condemned the president, saying Trump’s decision to deploy “thousands of armed ICE agents” was “causing serious harm and spreading terror throughout our communities,” and vowed accountability if any laws were broken.

Fatal shooting sparks protests

Following the shooting, demonstrations erupted across Minneapolis, with crowds gathering near federal buildings and ICE facilities, chanting against immigration raids and accusing federal agents of excessive force.

DHS has said ICE vehicles were blocked during the operation and alleged that a driver attempted to use the vehicle against law enforcement officers.

State officials have confirmed an investigation is underway, while federal authorities have stood by the agents’ actions. 

No disciplinary measures have been announced so far.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.