Obama slams Federal Agents over Minnesota killings, calls for Accountability

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Former U.S. President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have issued a blistering condemnation of federal immigration enforcement tactics in Minnesota, describing the killing of Alex Pretti as a “heartbreaking tragedy” and a warning that America’s core values are under serious threat.

In a statement released Sunday, the Obamas said the conduct of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and other federal officers in Minneapolis reflects a dangerous breakdown in accountability and lawful policing.

They argued that while federal law enforcement officers face difficult responsibilities, Americans expect them to act within the law and cooperate with state and local authorities to protect public safety.

“That’s not what we’re seeing in Minnesota,” the statement said, accusing federal agents of operating “with impunity” and deploying tactics that intimidate, provoke and endanger civilians.

The Obamas said the use of masked agents and aggressive enforcement methods had sparked widespread outrage nationwide and contributed directly to escalating tensions.

They warned that these “unprecedented tactics” have now resulted in the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens, Alex Pretti and Renee Good, a development they described as intolerable.

The statement noted that even a former top lawyer at the Department of Homeland Security during the first Trump administration had reportedly labelled the tactics “embarrassing, lawless and cruel.”

The Obamas further criticised the current administration for failing to impose discipline or accountability on deployed agents, alleging instead that officials have sought to escalate the situation.

They also questioned official explanations for the shootings, saying public claims were not backed by serious investigations and appeared to be contradicted by video evidence.

“This has to stop,” the statement said, calling on federal authorities to rethink their approach in the wake of the latest killing.

The Obamas urged the administration to work constructively with Tim Walz, Jacob Frey, and state and local law enforcement agencies to prevent further chaos while pursuing legitimate law enforcement goals.

They also voiced support for peaceful protests in Minneapolis and across the country, describing them as a powerful reminder of citizens’ responsibility to challenge injustice.

According to the Obamas, the demonstrations underscore the duty of Americans to defend basic freedoms and hold their government accountable when public trust is breached.