Why Are Some Blaming ICE for the Mayhem?

In the midst of chaos in Minnesota, a troubling narrative has emerged: blame directed at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for the violence and disruptions. Yet, ICE agents are merely fulfilling their duty to enforce federal immigration laws, as authorized by Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution, which grants Congress power over naturalization. This authority was affirmed in Arizona v. United States (2012), where the Supreme Court upheld federal authority in immigration enforcement. The mayhem, including fatal shootings and widespread protests, stems not from ICE actions but from interference by agitators and local leaders who obstruct lawful operations. I do not however, excuse any overuse of force and believe fully in accountability on BOTH sides.

ICE's Constitutional Mandate

ICE's role is straightforward: uphold immigration laws to maintain national security and public order. In January 2026, the agency launched Operation Metro Surge, deploying 2,000 agents to Minnesota for the largest immigration enforcement effort ever, targeting undocumented individuals amid reports of fraud and criminal activity. This operation is entirely constitutional, rooted in federal supremacy over immigration. Critics overlook that without such enforcement, issues like the alleged Somali fraud scam, estimated at $20-100 billion, would persist unchecked. If allowed to proceed unhindered, these efforts would resolve quietly, avoiding the current turmoil.

The Myth of the Right to "Protest"

Contrary to media and political claims, there is no constitutional right to "protest”. The First Amendment safeguards only the right to "peaceably assemble". This distinction is crucial. In De Jonge v. Oregon (1937), the Supreme Court protected peaceful political gatherings but excluded those devolving into disorder. When assemblies involve blocking access, inciting violence, or interfering with law enforcement, they lose protection. Brandenburg v. Ohio (1969) allows advocacy but not incitement to imminent lawless action. In Minnesota, what began as rallies has escalated into hazardous confrontations, teetering on insurrection by defying federal authority.

How Interference Leads to Tragedy

The chaos in Minnesota exemplifies this. On January 23, 2026, a statewide general strike saw over 700 businesses close in protest against ICE, with thousands marching in subzero temperatures for "ICE Out" rallies. Tensions peaked with the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Alex Jeffrey Pretti, an armed man who approached agents, marking the second such incident this month. Witnesses and critics point to incitement by leaders like Governor Tim Walz, who encouraged crowds to "keep causing trouble" and directed residents to call 911 upon sighting ICE officers. Such interference has led to injuries to federal officers. Blaming ICE ignores that non-cooperation fuels these tragedies; peaceful allowance of enforcement would prevent them.

Breaking News: Walz Agrees to Cooperate

On January 26, 2026, in breaking news, Governor Tim Walz has agreed to work with President Trump and the administration to turn down the temperature and cooperate with federal authorities on ICE's mandate. Following a productive phone call, Trump stated that Walz requested collaboration, noting they are "on a similar wavelength". Trump is sending border czar Tom Homan to Minnesota to coordinate efforts, focusing on apprehending criminals while potentially reducing agent numbers if cooperation holds. This development could de-escalate the situation and restore order.

Violations of Other Rights

Agitators compound the issue by infringing on others' freedoms. Reports detail disruptions in places of worship, where protesters interrupt services, violating the First Amendment's guarantee of free exercise of religion. In Edwards v. South Carolina (1963), the Court protected peaceful marches but not coercive actions. These tactics echo far-left strategies that prioritize disruption over dialogue, trampling rights to worship and move freely. The American way embraces disagreement, but not at the expense of others' liberties.

The Real Culprits: Agitators and Enablers

Those resisting ICE, including local officials suing to halt operations, are the true source of mayhem. Minnesota's Attorney General and mayors have filed lawsuits, framing the surge as retribution, while Democrats push to defund Homeland Security. This resistance aligns with Maoist ideologies that reject constitutional rule of law, favoring anarchy over order. Protests erupted after exposures of fraud, suggesting motives beyond immigration concerns. Enablers like Walz previously exacerbated divisions, turning lawful enforcement into conflict, but recent cooperation signals potential change.

Blaming ICE for Minnesota's mayhem is misguided and unfair. Agents enforce laws to protect the nation, and interference only breeds violence. By respecting the right to peaceably assemble without veering into lawlessness, and allowing federal duties to proceed, peace could return. Americans must reject narratives that vilify enforcers and instead hold agitators accountable. Upholding the Constitution means prioritizing rule of law over disruption.

Michael J Badagliacco, “MJB”

Michael is a father of five, grandfather of three, U.S. Air Force Veteran, international recording artist, Editor-in-Chief of the Colorado DOGE Report and USA Liberty Report, a Citizen of Montrose, CO, passionate about Montrose, Colorado, the United States of America, Freedom, Liberty and the founders’ genius in crafting the Constitution.