Politics

Trump Administration’s Response to Alex Pretti Shooting: No Admission of Lying

On January 25, 2026, Border Patrol agents fatally shot Alex Pretti in Minneapolis, with video evidence contradicting the administration’s initial claims of self-defense. Despite this evidence, the Department of Homeland Security, led by Secretary Kristi Noem, falsely asserted Pretti was a “domestic terrorist” who intended to harm law enforcement. This blatant disregard for facts, however, faced significant pushback from Republican officials and the NRA, prompting a retreat from the White House. The administration demoted Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino and sent border czar Tom Homan to Minnesota while also ceasing to defend the killing.

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Feds Still Hide Shooters’ Names After Alex Pretti Killing

Following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by immigration officers in Minneapolis, the US government has refused to release the identities of the agents involved. Video evidence contradicts claims made by Homeland Security officials, suggesting Pretti was not posing an active threat. Despite standard protocol for law enforcement-involved shootings, the agents remain on duty and have been moved from the city. Critics argue this lack of transparency suggests an unaccountable, secret police force and a cover-up, while some members of Congress are calling for an impartial investigation.

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Noem’s Senate Testimony Expected to Be Unproductive, Focus on Deception

Secretary Kristi Noem of the Department of Homeland Security is set to appear before the Senate Judiciary Committee on March 3rd. This testimony was confirmed by an aide to panel Chair Chuck Grassley, as reported by Politico. The hearing’s focus and specific topics remain undisclosed at this time, though it is expected to address current national security concerns. The testimony will provide an opportunity for the committee to question Secretary Noem on the department’s operations and policies.

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White House Avoids Backing Stephen Miller’s Criticism of Alex Pretti

Steve Bannon claims that those protesting in Minneapolis, following the actions of federal agents, are a “domestic terrorist mob” aligned with a “red-green alliance” intent on destroying the American republic. He believes these protests are not organic, but rather the result of a coordinated effort, despite a lack of evidence. Bannon is critical of those protesting the policies in Minneapolis and blames George Soros for the actions being taken by the activists. Bannon’s response to the protests is to call for even more federal agents to go to Minneapolis.

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Calls for World Cup Boycott Grow Amid Safety and Political Concerns

As the U.S. prepares to co-host the World Cup, concerns about the Trump administration’s policies have sparked calls for a boycott from prominent soccer figures and lawmakers. Critics cite the administration’s immigration policies, foreign relations, and tariffs as reasons for apprehension. Some European lawmakers and fans are contemplating a boycott, with German and UK officials discussing potential actions to pressure the U.S. government. Despite these discussions, French officials have expressed a desire to keep sport separate from politics. The historical precedent of boycotts, particularly in light of events in Qatar, makes a widespread boycott unlikely.

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Trump Team Demands Right to Destroy Evidence in Alex Pretti Shooting, Judge Blocks

Sources indicate the White House is developing a strategy to assist federal agents in removing individuals, aiming to minimize community unrest. While avoiding direct condemnation of the slain protester, Alex Pretti, as some in the Trump administration did, the speaker primarily criticized local leadership in Minneapolis. The speaker placed blame on the Minneapolis Mayor and Governor for the lack of leadership. Ultimately, the speaker suggested that the lack of calm and order in the community was intentionally fostered by local leaders.

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TikTok Blocks Epstein Mentions, Anti-Trump Content, and ICE Criticism

TikTok users in the US have reported issues with the platform, specifically being unable to use the word “Epstein” in messages, alongside claims of censorship regarding content about ICE raids and protests. These issues arose shortly after TikTok’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, was forced to divest a majority stake to US investors. California Governor Gavin Newsom is launching a review into whether TikTok is violating state law by censoring Trump-critical content, while the platform attributes the problems to a “major infrastructure” issue caused by a power outage. The Independent has reached out to TikTok for further clarification on the issues and how the ownership change will impact content moderation.

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Greg Bovino Removed from Border Patrol, Expected to Retire: Reactions and Calls for Justice

According to reports, Border Patrol “commander at large” Gregory Bovino has been removed from his role in Minneapolis and is returning to his old job in California, with the possibility of soon retiring. This shift follows escalating tensions and two fatal shootings involving federal agents and protesters in Minneapolis. While the DHS denied these claims, the move is a response to the recent events, which have also seen President Trump speaking with city and state leaders about reducing the federal presence. Trump is sending border czar Tom Homan to oversee federal operations in Minnesota, a move that signals a shift in the administration’s handling of the situation.

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Trump Slams EU-India Trade Deal, Accuses Europe of Funding War Against Itself

The US has expressed concerns that Europe is indirectly funding the Russia-Ukraine war by purchasing refined Russian oil products from India, even while Washington imposes tariffs on New Delhi. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that Europe’s recent free trade agreement with India, dubbed the “mother of all trade deals”, allows this to occur. The US argues that while it has worked to destabilize Moscow’s energy trade and made significant sacrifices, Europe continues to benefit economically from loopholes in the global oil trade. The trade deal between the EU and India is set to boost economic ties between the regions despite US tariffs and global trade disruptions.

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ICE Arrest & Abuse: My Account of Trauma and the Haunting Reality

The author, a Minneapolis resident, was arrested by ICE agents while attempting to warn neighbors about ongoing raids, actions they believed were protected by law. Despite being a U.S. citizen, the author was pepper-sprayed, had their car windows smashed, and was subsequently arrested without any charges. The experience involved degrading treatment, denial of basic rights, and witnessing the distress of fellow detainees, including children. Released after eight hours, the author reflects on the trauma and calls for collective action against perceived tyranny and unchecked brutality by ICE.

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