Mullin walks back 'deranged' comment on Pretti but defends ICE shooting of Renee Good

WASHINGTON, DC: Senator Markwayne Mullin’s confirmation hearing for the role of Secretary of Homeland Security took a somber turn on Wednesday, March 18, as the nominee addressed his past remarks about two Americans killed by federal agents in Minneapolis earlier this year.

Responding to questions from Senator Gary Peters (D-Mich), Mullin said he regrets comments he made about Alex Pretti, who was killed in January.

Mullin acknowledged that he referred to Pretti as a “deranged individual” in a Fox News interview and said the remark was inappropriate.

“Those words probably should have been retracted. I shouldn't have said that,” Mullin told the committee, adding that he had conveyed similar sentiments to Peters privately.

When asked whether he would apologize directly to the Pretti family, Mullin said he would wait for the outcome of the ongoing investigation.

Admission of regret over Alex Pretti's characterization

The statement marked a notable shift from Mullin’s earlier public stance on the Minnesota incident. He said his comments were made before all facts were available and emphasized that his current position reflects that understanding.

Mullin also said he respects the committee’s oversight role and acknowledged differences with Democratic lawmakers on the issue. He reiterated that if the investigation were to contradict his initial assumptions, he would “absolutely” apologize to the family.

Refusal to retract Renee Good comments

In contrast, Mullin declined to withdraw his previous statements regarding the death of Renee Good. Good was shot by ICE agents during an encounter in Minneapolis, which Mullin had earlier described as justified.

During the hearing, he maintained that assessment, stating the situation required a split-second decision by the officer involved. Mullin said that once Good’s vehicle struck an officer, it constituted a serious threat.

“It’s very clear that an officer had to make a split decision,” he said, adding that the use of force was in response to what officers perceived as immediate danger.

Focus on ongoing Department investigations

Mullin noted that investigations into both incidents by the Department of Homeland Security are ongoing. He said that if confirmed, he would review the findings of those inquiries.

He told lawmakers the department must ensure accountability while also allowing investigations to run their course.