Premier Wab Kinew expressed support for Minnesotans following the tragic death of a woman in Minneapolis at the hands of a U.S. immigration officer, resulting in protests. Kinew reached out to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan to offer assistance and solidarity from Manitoba. Video footage showed the ICE agent shooting Renee Nicole Good, contradicting claims by President Donald Trump and Vice-President JD Vance that Good was trying to hit the officer with her SUV.
The incident led to ongoing protests, prompting Governor Walz to declare a “day of unity” to ease tensions. Kinew emphasized the need for empathy and support for Americans during this challenging time. He also referenced former Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura’s comparison of the U.S. to a “third-world country” due to the current political climate. Kinew urged Manitobans to check on their American friends and family and emphasized the importance of maintaining Canadian values.
Furthermore, Kinew criticized the Manitoba Progressive Conservative Party for a board member’s controversial comments supporting ICE, leading to the member’s suspension. Party Leader Obby Khan distanced the PC Party from the individual’s remarks, stating they were inappropriate and offensive following the tragic shooting incident.