Former Minneapolis mayor, R. T. Rybak, expressed concern over what he described as a hostile approach by the U.S. federal government towards his city. Rybak, who served as mayor from 2002 to 2014, highlighted the federal government’s actions as a declaration of war on Minneapolis, with what he perceived as brutal and illegal tactics resulting in the deaths of two individuals at the hands of ICE agents.
Most recently, 37-year-old ICU nurse Alex Jeffrey Pretti was fatally shot by federal agents in Minneapolis. This incident followed closely on the heels of another fatal shooting by ICE agent Jonathan Ross, who killed Renee Good in a residential neighborhood in the city.
Rybak emphasized the unity and resilience of the Minneapolis community in the face of these events, describing the city as being in a state of resistance against the federal government’s immigration crackdown. He expressed outrage at the killings and criticized the lack of accountability and transparency surrounding the actions of ICE agents.
The former mayor called for a nationwide response, urging elected officials across the country to stand against what he viewed as violations of American values. He emphasized the need for bipartisan recognition of the rule of law and called for support from all corners of the country in rejecting what he deemed as unjust and inhumane practices.
In a message of hope and solidarity, Rybak highlighted Minneapolis as a beacon of inclusivity and resistance, offering inspiration for the nation to reaffirm its core principles and strive towards a more just and compassionate future.