The U.S. Department of Justice is probing allegations that Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey obstructed federal immigration enforcement efforts through their public statements, as reported by sources familiar with the matter. The investigation is centered on a potential breach of a conspiracy statute, according to the sources who spoke on the condition of anonymity to The Associated Press.
CBS News initially disclosed details about the inquiry. Responding to news of the investigation, Governor Walz rebuked the move, likening it to a pattern of using the justice system to threaten political opponents, citing recent instances involving U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin and Mark Kelly, and Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell.
In contrast, Mayor Frey characterized the investigation as an attempt to intimidate him for defending Minneapolis residents against what he perceives as chaos brought about by the current administration. He affirmed his commitment to ensuring the safety of the city.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized that no one is exempt from the law in a social media post, although the Justice Department declined to comment directly on the investigation. The ongoing immigration crackdown in Minneapolis and St. Paul has led to over 2,500 arrests, with tensions escalating following a fatal ICE-involved shooting.
Despite urging peaceful protests, Governor Walz has encouraged citizens to document interactions with ICE agents for potential legal actions. Both Walz and Frey have called for an end to the ICE deployment, labeling it a dangerous and fear-inducing operation that endangers civilians.
Deputy U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche has criticized Walz and Frey for the escalating confrontations, vowing to halt them through any necessary means.