By MICHAEL BIESECKER and JESSE BEDAYN Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — Alex Pretti was forcefully taken to the ground by federal immigration agents after kicking out the tail light of their vehicle during a Minneapolis protest 11 days before he was shot and killed by Border Patrol officers, videos that emerged Wednesday show.

The Jan. 13 scuffle was captured in a pair of videos that show Pretti shouting an expletive at the federal officers and struggling with them. His winter coat comes off when he's on the ground and he either breaks free or the officers let him go and he scurries away.

When he turns his back to the camera, what appears to be a handgun is visible in his waistband. At no point do the videos show Pretti reaching for the gun and it is unclear whether the federal agents saw it.

A person with knowledge of the incident confirmed to The Associated Press that the man in the videos is Pretti and that he had told his family of the confrontation. The person spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss matters sensitive to the family.

The new videos immediately rekindled the national debate about the death of Pretti, 37, an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-protester-alex-pretti-15ade7de6e19cb0291734e85dac763dc">intensive care nurse</a>&nbsp;at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center. Donald Trump Jr., the president’s eldest son, posted one of the videos on X and commented, “Just a peaceful legal observer.”

Lawyer says new videos don't excuse shooting

Steve Schleicher, a Minneapolis-based attorney&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-protester-alex-pretti-dfe7d30628cffeb1ceb6f940943e7b33">representing Pretti’s parents</a>, said the earlier altercation in no way justified the officers fatally shooting Pretti on Saturday.

“A week before Alex was gunned down in the street — despite posing no threat to anyone — he was violently assaulted by a group of (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents,” Schleicher said in a written statement. “Nothing that happened a full week before could possibly have justified Alex’s killing at the hands of ICE on Jan 24.”

Homeland Security Investigations is reviewing the new videos and incident, a spokesperson with the department said. It's not known if any of the officers involved were also there when Pretti was killed.

Last weekend's fatal shooting occurred on a sidewalk next to the street where Pretti had been videoing immigration officers. In video taken by bystanders, one officer pushes him, then Pretti is taken to the ground and a half-dozen officers try to subdue him. One spots Pretti's weapon, which he was licensed to carry, and shouts, “He's got a gun.” Two officers then open fire and Pretti is killed.

Trump administration officials quickly reacted, saying Pretti had approached officers with a gun and attacked them.

The altercation and shooting was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-ice-alex-pretti-videos-861a0d8f3ee182f3b5909b3613900e2e">captured in multiple videos</a>&nbsp;and showed Pretti never brandished his gun and didn't assault any officer. He was holding his phone when he was shot in the back while on the ground.

The new videos from the week prior to the shooting came from two sources. One, published by the Minnesota Star Tribune and later obtained by the AP, was taken by Max Shapiro, a witness who filmed the interaction. The second was by a crew for The News Movement, an online media outlet.

Confrontation came amid whistles and shouts

Shapiro, an attorney in Minneapolis, recounted in an interview Wednesday that he saw over a Signal chat that immigration enforcement was in the area. Driving over, Shapiro parked half a block from officers and got out.

“The observers were pretty distraught and screaming,” he said, adding that the officers began trying to get the crowd back, but their directives were largely drowned out in whistles and shouts.

The video from The News Movement shows Pretti wearing glasses, a dark baseball cap and a winter coat yelling at federal vehicles, at one point appearing to spit and yell “trash” toward the driver's side of a dark Ford Expedition with flashing red and blue lights.

As the vehicle pulls slowly away, Pretti kicks at the taillight and then delivers a second kick that shatters the red plastic and leaves the taillight dangling.

Shapiro began filming on his phone just after Pretti kicked out the taillight.

Both videos capture the rear door of the SUV swinging open and an immigration officer wearing a gas mask and helmet getting out. He starts walking toward Pretti.

The officer grabs Pretti’s shirt at his chest, pulling him back toward the vehicle as Pretti’s arms flail. The officer pulls Pretti back onto the street and down onto his knees, falling over Pretti in the scuffle.

Other masked and helmeted officers surround them and try to subdue Pretti. Others stand guard between them and a screaming crowd, before the officers set off tear gas canisters and withdraw.

After Pretti stumbles away, Shapiro walks over and hugs Pretti, asking if he is OK.

Pretti affirms that he is, before turning to others involved in the melee and asking: “Are we all OK? Are we all safe?”

Shapiro said he understands some will use the videos to try to vilify Pretti, but that he seemed like someone who cared deeply about what was happening to the people caught up in the Trump Administration's deportation push.

“I’m no immigration policy expert,” Shapiro said. “But there has to be a better way to go about this.”

By MICHAEL BIESECKER and JESSE BEDAYN Associated PressWASHINGTON (AP) — Alex Pretti was forcefully taken to the ground by federal immigration agents after kicking out the tail light of their vehicle during a Minneapolis protest 11 days before he was shot and killed by Border Patrol officers, videos that emerged Wednesday show.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨 BOOM! I love this sht! <a href="https://t.co/7WSEmPNosJ">pic.twitter.com/7WSEmPNosJ</a>&mdash; Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) <a href="https://twitter.com/GuntherEagleman/status/2016712467825537506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Democrat hero nurse Alex Pretti screaming, “Fucking assault me motherfucker, fucking trash,” before spitting on ice agents and kicking out their tail lights. This guy was not emotionally well, may well have been psychotic, and was begging to be attacked: <a href="https://t.co/FmIVAifOJh">pic.twitter.com/FmIVAifOJh</a>&mdash; Clay Travis (@ClayTravis) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClayTravis/status/2016715318240895086?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Jan. 13 scuffle was captured in a pair of videos that show Pretti shouting an expletive at the federal officers and struggling with them. His winter coat comes off when he's on the ground and he either breaks free or the officers let him go and he scurries away.When he turns his back to the camera, what appears to be a handgun is visible in his waistband. At no point do the videos show Pretti reaching for the gun and it is unclear whether the federal agents saw it.A person with knowledge of the incident confirmed to The Associated Press that the man in the videos is Pretti and that he had told his family of the confrontation. The person spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss matters sensitive to the family.The new videos immediately rekindled the national debate about the death of Pretti, 37, an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-protester-alex-pretti-15ade7de6e19cb0291734e85dac763dc">intensive care nurse</a>&nbsp;at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center. Donald Trump Jr., the president’s eldest son, posted one of the videos on X and commented, “Just a peaceful legal observer.”<h2>Lawyer says new videos don't excuse shooting</h2>Steve Schleicher, a Minneapolis-based attorney&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-protester-alex-pretti-dfe7d30628cffeb1ceb6f940943e7b33">representing Pretti’s parents</a>, said the earlier altercation in no way justified the officers fatally shooting Pretti on Saturday.“A week before Alex was gunned down in the street — despite posing no threat to anyone — he was violently assaulted by a group of (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents,” Schleicher said in a written statement. “Nothing that happened a full week before could possibly have justified Alex’s killing at the hands of ICE on Jan 24.”Homeland Security Investigations is reviewing the new videos and incident, a spokesperson with the department said. It's not known if any of the officers involved were also there when Pretti was killed.Last weekend's fatal shooting occurred on a sidewalk next to the street where Pretti had been videoing immigration officers. In video taken by bystanders, one officer pushes him, then Pretti is taken to the ground and a half-dozen officers try to subdue him. One spots Pretti's weapon, which he was licensed to carry, and shouts, “He's got a gun.” Two officers then open fire and Pretti is killed.Trump administration officials quickly reacted, saying Pretti had approached officers with a gun and attacked them.The altercation and shooting was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-ice-alex-pretti-videos-861a0d8f3ee182f3b5909b3613900e2e">captured in multiple videos</a>&nbsp;and showed Pretti never brandished his gun and didn't assault any officer. He was holding his phone when he was shot in the back while on the ground.The new videos from the week prior to the shooting came from two sources. One, published by the Minnesota Star Tribune and later obtained by the AP, was taken by Max Shapiro, a witness who filmed the interaction. The second was by a crew for The News Movement, an online media outlet.<h2>Confrontation came amid whistles and shouts</h2>Shapiro, an attorney in Minneapolis, recounted in an interview Wednesday that he saw over a Signal chat that immigration enforcement was in the area. Driving over, Shapiro parked half a block from officers and got out.“The observers were pretty distraught and screaming,” he said, adding that the officers began trying to get the crowd back, but their directives were largely drowned out in whistles and shouts.The video from The News Movement shows Pretti wearing glasses, a dark baseball cap and a winter coat yelling at federal vehicles, at one point appearing to spit and yell “trash” toward the driver's side of a dark Ford Expedition with flashing red and blue lights.As the vehicle pulls slowly away, Pretti kicks at the taillight and then delivers a second kick that shatters the red plastic and leaves the taillight dangling.Shapiro began filming on his phone just after Pretti kicked out the taillight.Both videos capture the rear door of the SUV swinging open and an immigration officer wearing a gas mask and helmet getting out. He starts walking toward Pretti.The officer grabs Pretti’s shirt at his chest, pulling him back toward the vehicle as Pretti’s arms flail. The officer pulls Pretti back onto the street and down onto his knees, falling over Pretti in the scuffle.Other masked and helmeted officers surround them and try to subdue Pretti. Others stand guard between them and a screaming crowd, before the officers set off tear gas canisters and withdraw.After Pretti stumbles away, Shapiro walks over and hugs Pretti, asking if he is OK.Pretti affirms that he is, before turning to others involved in the melee and asking: “Are we all OK? Are we all safe?”Shapiro said he understands some will use the videos to try to vilify Pretti, but that he seemed like someone who cared deeply about what was happening to the people caught up in the Trump Administration's deportation push.“I’m no immigration policy expert,” Shapiro said. “But there has to be a better way to go about this.”

🎥 New videos show Alex Pretti scuffle with officers days before his death

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

After a plea from the Humane Society of the High Plains in Hays for funds to help six pets with medical needs, the shelter was able to pay for vet bills for all six pets, and they are now on the mend.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5d923a7a-b2ec-417f-82a7-dbf6bd4c8c5c">Hays Post and the shelter shared the stories of six pets with serious medical concerns:&nbsp;Olga, the cat;&nbsp;Mowgli, a rotweiler;&nbsp;Ellie and Stephanie, schnauzers; Zena, a husky-shepherd mix; and&nbsp;Hugo, an American bully mix.</a>

In the last couple of weeks, the shelter received more than $12,000 in donations toward its vet bills from places as far away as Pennsylvania, Iowa and Illinois.

Taryn Faulkender, shelter community outreach coordinator, said the shelter staff and volunteers were thrilled with the donations and the encouraging notes.

"It was very nice to see, and we are all very, very thankful," she said.

Since the announcement, Hugo, who has low thyroid and will need to take medicine for the rest of his life, has been adopted.

Faulkender fostered Hugo for about a month, so his adoption was bittersweet.

Olga, the cat, has been medically cleared and is up for adoption. Olga was battling ear infections. A senior cat and stray, Olga was lethargic when she was picked up.&nbsp;

However, now the shelter reports, "She is more active, more talkative, and eating like a pro! She looks so much better and happier!"

Although Olga was picked up as a stray, the shelter staff thinks she likely came from a home, as she was spayed and is otherwise in good shape.

Mowgli, a rotweiler, is gaining weight, but will still need to put on another 15 to 20 pounds before he is released for adoption,&nbsp;Faulkender said. He came into the shelter weighing only 63 pounds and should weigh 90 to 100 pounds.

"As some of you may or may not know, when an animal comes in this malnourished, it's a lot more complicated than just giving them heaps of food," the shelter said on Facebook. "You have to feed them small amounts throughout the day and gradually increase the amounts. It could be fatal to give them too much food right away."

Mowgli is more than 70 pounds; some sores he had are healing, his ribs are disappearing, and his coat is becoming shiny.&nbsp;

Zena, a husky-shepherd mix, had an overgrowth on one of her bones from a previous injury that was causing her pain and for her to limp.

The vet said if the injury was repaired, the overgrowth would likely grow back, and she would be in constant pain.

As Zena is a young dog, the decision was made to amputate her leg and make her a tripod.

"The magical and beautiful Zena is already bouncing back and adjusting to life with the legs extremely well! She is already wanting to run and play," the shelter said.

Faulkender said the shelter will need to keep Zena a little longer to ensure her incision heals properly. They are considering a medical foster placement while she heals.

"She is very happy,&nbsp; and she wants to play. We got her back from the vet. We took her out, and she was wanting to dive in the snow and roll,"&nbsp;Faulkender said.

Although some people might have reservations about adopting a three-legged dog, Faulkender said, the shelter staff are willing to talk through concerns with potential adopters.

She said&nbsp;Zena should be able to have a full, happy, healthy life with a new family.

Ellie and Stephanie,&nbsp;schnauzers, had eye ulcers. Both dogs are improving and can now see. However, they have not been medically cleared for adoption yet.&nbsp;

Both dogs were diagnosed with chronic dry eye and will likely need eye drops for the rest of their lives.

Stephanie is improving a little faster than Ellie and will likely be available for adoption first.

The Humane Society of the High Plains is a nonprofit, no-kill shelter. You can learn more about the Humane Society and see pets up for adoption on its&nbsp;<a href="https://hshponline.org/">website</a>&nbsp;or follow it on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/HSHPHays">Facebook</a>.

It accepts donations year-round. If you wish to mail a donation check, you can send it to the Humane Society of the High Plains, P.O. Box 311, Hays, KS 67601. Cash or checks can also be dropped off in person at the shelter at 2050 E. Highway 40, Hays.

You can also donate online through one of the methods listed below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769536208079.jpeg" alt="Hugo, one of six pets at the Humane Society of the High Plains in Hays that were facing serious medical issues, has been treated and adopted. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hugo, one of six pets at the Humane Society of the High Plains in Hays that were facing serious medical issues, has been treated and adopted. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAfter a plea from the Humane Society of the High Plains in Hays for funds to help six pets with medical needs, the shelter was able to pay for vet bills for all six pets, and they are now on the mend.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5d923a7a-b2ec-417f-82a7-dbf6bd4c8c5c">Hays Post and the shelter shared the stories of six pets with serious medical concerns:&nbsp;Olga, the cat;&nbsp;Mowgli, a rotweiler;&nbsp;Ellie and Stephanie, schnauzers; Zena, a husky-shepherd mix; and&nbsp;Hugo, an American bully mix.</a>In the last couple of weeks, the shelter received more than $12,000 in donations toward its vet bills from places as far away as Pennsylvania, Iowa and Illinois.Taryn Faulkender, shelter community outreach coordinator, said the shelter staff and volunteers were thrilled with the donations and the encouraging notes."It was very nice to see, and we are all very, very thankful," she said.Since the announcement, Hugo, who has low thyroid and will need to take medicine for the rest of his life, has been adopted.Faulkender fostered Hugo for about a month, so his adoption was bittersweet.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769536326463.jpeg" alt="Olga, the cat, had severe ear infections when she came to the High Plains Humane Society. Her infections have been treated, and she is now up for adoption. Courtey photo" />
 <figcaption>Olga, the cat, had severe ear infections when she came to the High Plains Humane Society. Her infections have been treated, and she is now up for adoption. Courtey photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Olga, the cat, has been medically cleared and is up for adoption. Olga was battling ear infections. A senior cat and stray, Olga was lethargic when she was picked up.&nbsp;However, now the shelter reports, "She is more active, more talkative, and eating like a pro! She looks so much better and happier!"Although Olga was picked up as a stray, the shelter staff thinks she likely came from a home, as she was spayed and is otherwise in good shape.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769536410445.jpeg" alt="Mowgli, a rotweiler, arrived at the High Plains Humane Society severely malnourished. He is gaining weight. Once he gains another 15 to 20 pounds, he will be released to be adopted. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Mowgli, a rotweiler, arrived at the High Plains Humane Society severely malnourished. He is gaining weight. Once he gains another 15 to 20 pounds, he will be released to be adopted. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Mowgli, a rotweiler, is gaining weight, but will still need to put on another 15 to 20 pounds before he is released for adoption,&nbsp;Faulkender said. He came into the shelter weighing only 63 pounds and should weigh 90 to 100 pounds."As some of you may or may not know, when an animal comes in this malnourished, it's a lot more complicated than just giving them heaps of food," the shelter said on Facebook. "You have to feed them small amounts throughout the day and gradually increase the amounts. It could be fatal to give them too much food right away."Mowgli is more than 70 pounds; some sores he had are healing, his ribs are disappearing, and his coat is becoming shiny.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769536506826.jpeg" alt="Zena, a husky-shepherd mix, had a bone overgrowth from a past injury that was causing her pain. After exploratory surgery, the decision was made to amputate her leg, so she could live pain-free. Once she heals from her operation, she will be up for adoption. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Zena, a husky-shepherd mix, had a bone overgrowth from a past injury that was causing her pain. After exploratory surgery, the decision was made to amputate her leg, so she could live pain-free. Once she heals from her operation, she will be up for adoption. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Zena, a husky-shepherd mix, had an overgrowth on one of her bones from a previous injury that was causing her pain and for her to limp.The vet said if the injury was repaired, the overgrowth would likely grow back, and she would be in constant pain.As Zena is a young dog, the decision was made to amputate her leg and make her a tripod."The magical and beautiful Zena is already bouncing back and adjusting to life with the legs extremely well! She is already wanting to run and play," the shelter said.Faulkender said the shelter will need to keep Zena a little longer to ensure her incision heals properly. They are considering a medical foster placement while she heals."She is very happy,&nbsp; and she wants to play. We got her back from the vet. We took her out, and she was wanting to dive in the snow and roll,"&nbsp;Faulkender said.Although some people might have reservations about adopting a three-legged dog, Faulkender said, the shelter staff are willing to talk through concerns with potential adopters.She said&nbsp;Zena should be able to have a full, happy, healthy life with a new family.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769536638006.jpeg" alt="Ellie and Stephanie, schnauzers, had eye ulcers. Both can now see, but they will need continuing care for chronic dry eye. Stephanie should be up for adoption soon. However, Ellie may need some more time to heal. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Ellie and Stephanie, schnauzers, had eye ulcers. Both can now see, but they will need continuing care for chronic dry eye. Stephanie should be up for adoption soon. However, Ellie may need some more time to heal. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellie and Stephanie,&nbsp;schnauzers, had eye ulcers. Both dogs are improving and can now see. However, they have not been medically cleared for adoption yet.&nbsp;Both dogs were diagnosed with chronic dry eye and will likely need eye drops for the rest of their lives.Stephanie is improving a little faster than Ellie and will likely be available for adoption first.The Humane Society of the High Plains is a nonprofit, no-kill shelter. You can learn more about the Humane Society and see pets up for adoption on its&nbsp;<a href="https://hshponline.org/">website</a>&nbsp;or follow it on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/HSHPHays">Facebook</a>.It accepts donations year-round. If you wish to mail a donation check, you can send it to the Humane Society of the High Plains, P.O. Box 311, Hays, KS 67601. Cash or checks can also be dropped off in person at the shelter at 2050 E. Highway 40, Hays.You can also donate online through one of the methods listed below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769544588160.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Humane Society in Hays receives outpouring of donations; sick pets on mend

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — U.S. Sen.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/amy-klobuchar">Amy Klobuchar</a>&nbsp;said Thursday she is running for governor of Minnesota, promising to take on President Donald Trump while unifying a state that has endured a series of challenges even before the federal government's immigration crackdown.

Klobuchar's decision gives Democrats a high-profile candidate and proven statewide winner as their party tries to hold onto the office occupied by Gov. Tim Walz. The 2024 Democratic vice presidential nominee, Walz&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/tim-walz-drops-bid-for-third-term-as-minnesota-governor-amid-child-care-program-investigation-5ae60a6ffb554996aee18b029aff7370">abandoned his campaign</a>&nbsp;for a third term earlier this month amid criticism over mismanagement of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-child-care-funds-fraud-b511941de10f02fbb7349eff6738f748">taxpayer funding for child care programs</a>.

“Minnesota, we've been through a lot,” Klobuchar said in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiV3xVkX-kg">a video announcement</a>&nbsp;Thursday. “These times call for leaders who can stand up and not be rubber stamps of this administration — but who are also willing to find common ground and fix things in our state.”

Klobuchar cited Trump’s immigration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/misinformation-immigration-dhs-minnesota-lawsuit-8a7feeca54864980bf936e888e0ca506">crackdown in Minnesota</a>, federal officers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-ice-b0cec9d1c5bae4b62469011775082300">killing two Minnesotans</a>&nbsp;who protested,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-lawmakers-shot-197b8073b66449297986f8276e6dcfc9">the assassination</a>&nbsp;of a state legislative leader and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-catholic-school-shooting-annunciation-church-271e65d699d38e01e83a6502c18df155">a school shooting</a>&nbsp;that killed multiple children — all within the last year. She avoided direct mention of ongoing fraud investigations into the child care programs that Trump has made a political cudgel.

“I believe we must stand up for what’s right and fix what’s wrong,” Klobuchar said.

Klobuchar, who becomes&nbsp;<a href="https://became%20the%20fourth%20sitting%20senator%20to%20seek%20leadership%20of%20a%20home%20state%20in%202026/">the fourth sitting senator</a>&nbsp;to seek leadership of a home state as governor in 2026, has been among the loudest Trump critics, most recently over the immigration enforcement effort that has prompted massive protests.

Multiple Republicans already are campaigning in what could become a marquee contest among 36 governorships on the ballot in November. Among those running for the GOP nomination are MyPillow founder and chief executive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2026-minnesota-governor-lindell-walz-b25e84e72bee54fbf14e1b516bd6fb9a">Mike Lindell</a>, a 2020 election denier who is close to Trump; Minnesota&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-governor-lisa-demuth-tim-walz-f80d8de9a8c4740d29c23416d6e19439">House Speaker Lisa Demuth</a>;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-health-minnesota-pandemics-234ec304532f2467deaa158473255926">Dr. Scott Jensen</a>, a former state senator who was the party’s 2022 gubernatorial candidate; and state Rep. Kristin Robbins.

The Minnesota contest is likely to test Trump and his fellow Republicans’ uncompromising law-and-order approach and mass deportation program against Democrats’ criticisms of his administration’s tactics.

Federal agents have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-minnesota-boy-father-detained-342f319fafb766d13afe07f5bcc1f112">detained children</a>&nbsp;and adults who are U.S. citizens, entered homes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-arrests-warrants-minneapolis-trump-00d0ab0338e82341fd91b160758aeb2d">without warrants</a>&nbsp;and engaged protesters in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-protests-immigration-agents-crowd-control-policing-ice-dhs-bd9335c2b0b793a3bff5c51287a80819">violent exchanges</a>. Minnesota resident and U.S. citizen Renee Good was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-shooting-minneapolis-minnesota-9aa822670b705c89906f2c699f1d16c5">shot three times and killed</a>&nbsp;by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in early January. On Saturday, federal officers fatally shot&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-ice-b0cec9d1c5bae4b62469011775082300">ICU nurse Alex Pretti</a>&nbsp;during an encounter.

Many Democrats on Capitol Hill, in turn, have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/homeland-security-government-funding-bills-d7ca791c2d1aa81d2982239f81bc86be">voted against spending bills</a>&nbsp;that fund Trump’s Department of Homeland Security. A standoff over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-partial-shutdown-ice-funding-homeland-security-35abc94e6579e701f03d9c18ca5a7c44">the funding</a>&nbsp;could lead to a partial government shutdown.

Trump and other Republicans also will try to saddle Klobuchar — or any other Democrat — with questions about the ongoing federal investigation into Minnesota’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-child-care-funds-fraud-trump-1d6edb8511d916fc3a5dc3b339d94e37">child care programs</a>&nbsp;and its Somali community. Trump also has made repeated assertions of widespread fraud in state government, and his administration is conducting multiple investigations of state officials, including Walz. The Democrat has maintained that his administration has investigated, reduced and prosecuted fraud.

Serving her fourth term in Washington, Klobuchar is a former local prosecutor and onetime presidential candidate who positions herself as a moderate and has demonstrated the ability to win across Minnesota.

The senator won her 2024 reelection bid by nearly 16 percentage points and received 135,000 more votes than Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris, who had chosen Walz as her running mate. Harris outpaced Trump by fewer than 5 percentage points.

Klobuchar gained attention during Trump’s first term for her questioning of his judicial nominees including now-Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh. At Kavanaugh’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/6bbd19a9e7124fbead3da03cb6f2e7f9">acrimonious confirmation hearings</a>, she asked the future justice, who had been accused of sexual assault as a teenager, if he ever had so much to drink that he didn’t remember what happened. Kavanaugh retorted, “Have you?”

The senator, who had talked publicly of her father’s alcoholism, continued her questioning. Kavanaugh, who was confirmed by a single vote, later apologized to Klobuchar.

After Trump’s first presidency, Klobuchar was among the most outspoken lawmakers during bipartisan congressional inquiries of the insurrection on Jan. 6, 2021, when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-confirm-joe-biden-78104aea082995bbd7412a6e6cd13818">Trump supporters attacked the Capitol</a>&nbsp;during certification of Democrat Joe Biden’s victory over him in the 2020 presidential election. As Senate Rules Committee chair, she pressed Capitol Police, administration officials and others for details of what authorities knew beforehand and how rioters breached the Capitol.

“It’s our duty to have immediate responses to what happened,” she said after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-business-capitol-siege-government-and-politics-3c1d7afe65b45c9284376ac96a8059f5">helping write a report</a>&nbsp;focused not on Trump’s role but on better security protocols for the seat of Congress.

Klobuchar sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020, running as a moderate in the same political lane as Biden. She launched her campaign&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/31b00b46939f4f32ab9996181816c647">standing outside in a Minnesota snowstorm</a>&nbsp;to tout her “grit” and Midwestern sensibilities that have anchored her political identity.

As a candidate, Klobuchar faced stories of disgruntled Senate staffers who described her as a difficult boss but also distinguished herself on crowded debate stages as a determined pragmatist. She outlasted several better-funded candidates and ran ahead of Biden in the Iowa caucuses and the New Hampshire primary. But Biden, then a former vice president, trounced her and others in the South Carolina primaries, prompting her to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-ap-top-news-amy-klobuchar-mn-state-wire-joe-biden-e8e7133c8dce77f1ddeaad29cb0cfa5f">drop out and join others</a>&nbsp;in closing ranks behind him.

After Biden’s victory, Klobuchar would have been well-positioned for a Cabinet post, perhaps even attorney general. But the Senate’s 50-50 split made it untenable for Biden to create any opening for Republicans to regain control of the chamber.

Klobuchar announced in 2021 that she had been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-minnesota-amy-klobuchar-66c8f9f3b7f42d11835603c8490ebbd7">treated for breast cancer</a>&nbsp;and in 2024 announced that she was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/senator-amy-klobuchar-breast-cancer-049efe56e9674767b6fd98be66a4fdd0">cancer-free</a>&nbsp;but undergoing another round of radiation.

Klobuchar joins Colorado Democrat Michael Bennet, Tennessee Republican Marsha Blackburn and Alabama Republican Tommy Tuberville as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/senators-leaving-washington-dc-governor-fb46dc41b8853f5d783e2db012064b53">senators seeking to lead their home states</a>. Bennet, Blackburn and Klobuchar are not up for reelection in 2026 so could remain in the Senate should they not win their gubernatorial races. Tuberville is in the final year of his six-year term and will leave the Senate in January 2027 regardless.

Barrow reported from Atlanta. Associated Press reporter Maya Sweedler in Washington contributed.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — U.S. Sen.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/amy-klobuchar">Amy Klobuchar</a>&nbsp;said Thursday she is running for governor of Minnesota, promising to take on President Donald Trump while unifying a state that has endured a series of challenges even before the federal government's immigration crackdown.Klobuchar's decision gives Democrats a high-profile candidate and proven statewide winner as their party tries to hold onto the office occupied by Gov. Tim Walz. The 2024 Democratic vice presidential nominee, Walz&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/tim-walz-drops-bid-for-third-term-as-minnesota-governor-amid-child-care-program-investigation-5ae60a6ffb554996aee18b029aff7370">abandoned his campaign</a>&nbsp;for a third term earlier this month amid criticism over mismanagement of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-child-care-funds-fraud-b511941de10f02fbb7349eff6738f748">taxpayer funding for child care programs</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Minnesotans, we’ve been through a lot. And I believe this moment calls for grit, resilience, and faith in each other. I believe we must stand up for what’s right. And fix what’s wrong. Today, I’m announcing my candidacy for Governor. <a href="https://t.co/yVnbvmMyxO">pic.twitter.com/yVnbvmMyxO</a>&mdash; Amy Klobuchar (@amyklobuchar) <a href="https://twitter.com/amyklobuchar/status/2016843854054641696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Minnesota, we've been through a lot,” Klobuchar said in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiV3xVkX-kg">a video announcement</a>&nbsp;Thursday. “These times call for leaders who can stand up and not be rubber stamps of this administration — but who are also willing to find common ground and fix things in our state.”Klobuchar cited Trump’s immigration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/misinformation-immigration-dhs-minnesota-lawsuit-8a7feeca54864980bf936e888e0ca506">crackdown in Minnesota</a>, federal officers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-ice-b0cec9d1c5bae4b62469011775082300">killing two Minnesotans</a>&nbsp;who protested,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-lawmakers-shot-197b8073b66449297986f8276e6dcfc9">the assassination</a>&nbsp;of a state legislative leader and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-catholic-school-shooting-annunciation-church-271e65d699d38e01e83a6502c18df155">a school shooting</a>&nbsp;that killed multiple children — all within the last year. She avoided direct mention of ongoing fraud investigations into the child care programs that Trump has made a political cudgel.“I believe we must stand up for what’s right and fix what’s wrong,” Klobuchar said.Klobuchar, who becomes&nbsp;<a href="https://became%20the%20fourth%20sitting%20senator%20to%20seek%20leadership%20of%20a%20home%20state%20in%202026/">the fourth sitting senator</a>&nbsp;to seek leadership of a home state as governor in 2026, has been among the loudest Trump critics, most recently over the immigration enforcement effort that has prompted massive protests.Multiple Republicans already are campaigning in what could become a marquee contest among 36 governorships on the ballot in November. Among those running for the GOP nomination are MyPillow founder and chief executive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2026-minnesota-governor-lindell-walz-b25e84e72bee54fbf14e1b516bd6fb9a">Mike Lindell</a>, a 2020 election denier who is close to Trump; Minnesota&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-governor-lisa-demuth-tim-walz-f80d8de9a8c4740d29c23416d6e19439">House Speaker Lisa Demuth</a>;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-health-minnesota-pandemics-234ec304532f2467deaa158473255926">Dr. Scott Jensen</a>, a former state senator who was the party’s 2022 gubernatorial candidate; and state Rep. Kristin Robbins.<h2>Immigration and fraud will be at issue</h2>The Minnesota contest is likely to test Trump and his fellow Republicans’ uncompromising law-and-order approach and mass deportation program against Democrats’ criticisms of his administration’s tactics.Federal agents have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-minnesota-boy-father-detained-342f319fafb766d13afe07f5bcc1f112">detained children</a>&nbsp;and adults who are U.S. citizens, entered homes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-arrests-warrants-minneapolis-trump-00d0ab0338e82341fd91b160758aeb2d">without warrants</a>&nbsp;and engaged protesters in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-protests-immigration-agents-crowd-control-policing-ice-dhs-bd9335c2b0b793a3bff5c51287a80819">violent exchanges</a>. Minnesota resident and U.S. citizen Renee Good was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-shooting-minneapolis-minnesota-9aa822670b705c89906f2c699f1d16c5">shot three times and killed</a>&nbsp;by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in early January. On Saturday, federal officers fatally shot&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-ice-b0cec9d1c5bae4b62469011775082300">ICU nurse Alex Pretti</a>&nbsp;during an encounter.Many Democrats on Capitol Hill, in turn, have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/homeland-security-government-funding-bills-d7ca791c2d1aa81d2982239f81bc86be">voted against spending bills</a>&nbsp;that fund Trump’s Department of Homeland Security. A standoff over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-partial-shutdown-ice-funding-homeland-security-35abc94e6579e701f03d9c18ca5a7c44">the funding</a>&nbsp;could lead to a partial government shutdown.Trump and other Republicans also will try to saddle Klobuchar — or any other Democrat — with questions about the ongoing federal investigation into Minnesota’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-child-care-funds-fraud-trump-1d6edb8511d916fc3a5dc3b339d94e37">child care programs</a>&nbsp;and its Somali community. Trump also has made repeated assertions of widespread fraud in state government, and his administration is conducting multiple investigations of state officials, including Walz. The Democrat has maintained that his administration has investigated, reduced and prosecuted fraud.<h2>Klobuchar has won across Minnesota</h2>Serving her fourth term in Washington, Klobuchar is a former local prosecutor and onetime presidential candidate who positions herself as a moderate and has demonstrated the ability to win across Minnesota.The senator won her 2024 reelection bid by nearly 16 percentage points and received 135,000 more votes than Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris, who had chosen Walz as her running mate. Harris outpaced Trump by fewer than 5 percentage points.Klobuchar gained attention during Trump’s first term for her questioning of his judicial nominees including now-Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh. At Kavanaugh’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/6bbd19a9e7124fbead3da03cb6f2e7f9">acrimonious confirmation hearings</a>, she asked the future justice, who had been accused of sexual assault as a teenager, if he ever had so much to drink that he didn’t remember what happened. Kavanaugh retorted, “Have you?”The senator, who had talked publicly of her father’s alcoholism, continued her questioning. Kavanaugh, who was confirmed by a single vote, later apologized to Klobuchar.After Trump’s first presidency, Klobuchar was among the most outspoken lawmakers during bipartisan congressional inquiries of the insurrection on Jan. 6, 2021, when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-confirm-joe-biden-78104aea082995bbd7412a6e6cd13818">Trump supporters attacked the Capitol</a>&nbsp;during certification of Democrat Joe Biden’s victory over him in the 2020 presidential election. As Senate Rules Committee chair, she pressed Capitol Police, administration officials and others for details of what authorities knew beforehand and how rioters breached the Capitol.“It’s our duty to have immediate responses to what happened,” she said after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-business-capitol-siege-government-and-politics-3c1d7afe65b45c9284376ac96a8059f5">helping write a report</a>&nbsp;focused not on Trump’s role but on better security protocols for the seat of Congress.<h2>2020 presidential bid</h2>Klobuchar sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020, running as a moderate in the same political lane as Biden. She launched her campaign&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/31b00b46939f4f32ab9996181816c647">standing outside in a Minnesota snowstorm</a>&nbsp;to tout her “grit” and Midwestern sensibilities that have anchored her political identity.As a candidate, Klobuchar faced stories of disgruntled Senate staffers who described her as a difficult boss but also distinguished herself on crowded debate stages as a determined pragmatist. She outlasted several better-funded candidates and ran ahead of Biden in the Iowa caucuses and the New Hampshire primary. But Biden, then a former vice president, trounced her and others in the South Carolina primaries, prompting her to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-ap-top-news-amy-klobuchar-mn-state-wire-joe-biden-e8e7133c8dce77f1ddeaad29cb0cfa5f">drop out and join others</a>&nbsp;in closing ranks behind him.After Biden’s victory, Klobuchar would have been well-positioned for a Cabinet post, perhaps even attorney general. But the Senate’s 50-50 split made it untenable for Biden to create any opening for Republicans to regain control of the chamber.Klobuchar announced in 2021 that she had been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-minnesota-amy-klobuchar-66c8f9f3b7f42d11835603c8490ebbd7">treated for breast cancer</a>&nbsp;and in 2024 announced that she was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/senator-amy-klobuchar-breast-cancer-049efe56e9674767b6fd98be66a4fdd0">cancer-free</a>&nbsp;but undergoing another round of radiation.Klobuchar joins Colorado Democrat Michael Bennet, Tennessee Republican Marsha Blackburn and Alabama Republican Tommy Tuberville as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/senators-leaving-washington-dc-governor-fb46dc41b8853f5d783e2db012064b53">senators seeking to lead their home states</a>. Bennet, Blackburn and Klobuchar are not up for reelection in 2026 so could remain in the Senate should they not win their gubernatorial races. Tuberville is in the final year of his six-year term and will leave the Senate in January 2027 regardless.___Barrow reported from Atlanta. Associated Press reporter Maya Sweedler in Washington contributed.

🎥Why U.S. Senator says she is running for Minnesota governor 

Tryyaki Asian Cuisine and TeaHouse will celebrate its 10-year anniversary of serving the Hays community on Feb. 2.

"Over the past decade, our restaurant has been fortunate to grow alongside this community, and we are deeply grateful for the support we’ve received—especially after experiencing a fire and rebuilding our business," the owners said.

To mark this milestone and say thank you, Tryyaki will donate a portion of its proceeds on Monday, Feb. 2, to the Hays Fire Department and Hays Police Department as a small way of giving back to the community that helped the business recover and move forward.

"We look forward to serving Hays for many years to come. Thank you for being part of our journey," Tryyaki posted on Facebook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740072524005.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedTryyaki Asian Cuisine and TeaHouse will celebrate its 10-year anniversary of serving the Hays community on Feb. 2."Over the past decade, our restaurant has been fortunate to grow alongside this community, and we are deeply grateful for the support we’ve received—especially after experiencing a fire and rebuilding our business," the owners said.To mark this milestone and say thank you, Tryyaki will donate a portion of its proceeds on Monday, Feb. 2, to the Hays Fire Department and Hays Police Department as a small way of giving back to the community that helped the business recover and move forward."We look forward to serving Hays for many years to come. Thank you for being part of our journey," Tryyaki posted on Facebook.

Tryyaki Asian Cuisine, TeaHouse celebrates 10 years, to donate to Hays police, fire

NEW ORLEANS - The Fort Hays State women's indoor track and field team is ranked 20th in the initial release of the USTFCCCA NCAA Division II Track and Field Rating Index, released Tuesday by the coaches association.

The Tigers boast two individuals that rank in the top three in the country in their discipline, including Annabeth Baalmann in the pole vault and Katie Linenberger in the high jump.

Baalmann leads Division II with her school-record clearance of 14-1.25 last month. The three-time All-American is the only DII athlete to sucessfully clear the 14-foot threshold this season. The senior's top mark is 3.5 inches higher than her nearest competitor.

Linenberger ranks third in DII with her personal-best clearance of 5-9.25. She is one of five athletes in Division II to clear 5-9 or better this season and is the the only freshman to post a mark of 5-8 or better on the year. That mark is tied for second-best at FHSU during the program's NCAA Division II era.

The Tigers will return to action at a pair of meets this weekend (Jan. 30-31), with some competitors heading to Kearney, Neb. for the Charlie Foster Classic and others headed to Topeka, Kan. for the Washburn Open.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769620114594.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsNEW ORLEANS - The Fort Hays State women's indoor track and field team is ranked 20th in the initial release of the USTFCCCA NCAA Division II Track and Field Rating Index, released Tuesday by the coaches association.The Tigers boast two individuals that rank in the top three in the country in their discipline, including Annabeth Baalmann in the pole vault and Katie Linenberger in the high jump.Baalmann leads Division II with her school-record clearance of 14-1.25 last month. The three-time All-American is the only DII athlete to sucessfully clear the 14-foot threshold this season. The senior's top mark is 3.5 inches higher than her nearest competitor.Linenberger ranks third in DII with her personal-best clearance of 5-9.25. She is one of five athletes in Division II to clear 5-9 or better this season and is the the only freshman to post a mark of 5-8 or better on the year. That mark is tied for second-best at FHSU during the program's NCAA Division II era.The Tigers will return to action at a pair of meets this weekend (Jan. 30-31), with some competitors heading to Kearney, Neb. for the Charlie Foster Classic and others headed to Topeka, Kan. for the Washburn Open.

👟 FHSU women 20th in initial USTFCCCA rating index

Chamber in Hays The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, recognized eight outstanding individuals and organizations Tuesday during the 41st-Annual Chamber Awards Banquet at Memorial Union on the campus of Fort Hays State University.

More than 400 people attended the event, which celebrated those who have made a lasting impact on Ellis County through business excellence, professional achievement and volunteer service.

Video entertainment for the evening featured Chamber’s Got Talent, during which Marley Dechant, a student at Hays Middle School, received top honors for her dance performance.

The following award winners were announced:

• Vyve Broadband Rising Star Award: Macey Pfeifer, executive director for First Call for Help of Ellis County

• Commerce Bank Helping Hands Award: Kiwanis Club of Hays, Kansas

• Nex-Tech Wireless Businesswoman of the Year Award: Melissa Romme, principal and CPA for Adams Brown

• Grow Hays Robert E. Schmidt Entrepreneur of the Year Award: Israel Luna, owner of Las Hefas Latin Cuisine

• Werth Wealth Management Member Investor of the Year Award: Nex-Tech

• City of Hays Small Business Achievement of the Year Award: Hays Veterinary Hospital

• Nex-Tech Citizen of the Year Award: Scott Heimann, Hays Police Department sergeant (posthumous)

• Golden Belt Bank Hall of Fame Award: Clare Gustin, board chair for the Innovation Center The annual banquet honors individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and dedication help strengthen Hays and Ellis County. Sincere notes of thanksgiving are extended to all sponsors whose generous support helped make the event possible.

Thanks to the dedicated service business professionals across the community, The Chamber offered nearly 250 ways for members to engage in 2025, and advocated on behalf of quality of life for all Ellis County residents.

For more information about the Chamber in Hays or the 2026 award winners, visit <a href="http://hayschamber.com">hayschamber.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769573087714.jpeg" alt="The Chamber in Hays&nbsp;41st-Annual Chamber Awards winners. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Chamber in Hays&nbsp;41st-Annual Chamber Awards winners. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Chamber in Hays The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, recognized eight outstanding individuals and organizations Tuesday during the 41st-Annual Chamber Awards Banquet at Memorial Union on the campus of Fort Hays State University.More than 400 people attended the event, which celebrated those who have made a lasting impact on Ellis County through business excellence, professional achievement and volunteer service.Video entertainment for the evening featured Chamber’s Got Talent, during which Marley Dechant, a student at Hays Middle School, received top honors for her dance performance.The following award winners were announced:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769573225598.jpeg" alt="Macey Pfeifer accepts the Vyve Broadband Rising Star Award.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Macey Pfeifer accepts the Vyve Broadband Rising Star Award.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>• Vyve Broadband Rising Star Award: Macey Pfeifer, executive director for First Call for Help of Ellis County<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769573319662.jpeg" alt="Leadership from the Kiwanis accepts the&nbsp;Commerce Bank Helping Hands Award. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post." />
 <figcaption>Leadership from the Kiwanis accepts the&nbsp;Commerce Bank Helping Hands Award. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post.</figcaption>
 </figure>• Commerce Bank Helping Hands Award: Kiwanis Club of Hays, Kansas<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769573484177.jpeg" alt="Melissa Romme accepts the Nex-Tech Wireless Businesswoman of the Year Award.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Melissa Romme accepts the Nex-Tech Wireless Businesswoman of the Year Award.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>• Nex-Tech Wireless Businesswoman of the Year Award: Melissa Romme, principal and CPA for Adams Brown<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769574066681.jpeg" alt="Israel Luna, accepts the&nbsp;Grow Hays Robert E. Schmidt Entrepreneur of the Year Award.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Israel Luna, accepts the&nbsp;Grow Hays Robert E. Schmidt Entrepreneur of the Year Award.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>• Grow Hays Robert E. Schmidt Entrepreneur of the Year Award: Israel Luna, owner of Las Hefas Latin Cuisine<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769574360804.jpeg" alt="Jimmy Todd, Nex-Tech CEO, accepts the&nbsp;Werth Wealth Management Member Investor of the Year Award.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Jimmy Todd, Nex-Tech CEO, accepts the&nbsp;Werth Wealth Management Member Investor of the Year Award.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>• Werth Wealth Management Member Investor of the Year Award: Nex-Tech<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769574145132.jpeg" alt="Dr. Mark&nbsp;Meier of Hays&nbsp;Veterinary Hospital accepts the Hays Small Business Achievement of the Year Award.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Mark&nbsp;Meier of Hays&nbsp;Veterinary Hospital accepts the Hays Small Business Achievement of the Year Award.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>• City of Hays Small Business Achievement of the Year Award: Hays Veterinary Hospital<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761324299118.jpeg" alt="Scott Heimann" />
 <figcaption>Scott Heimann</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769574311488.jpeg" alt="Beth Heimann and her children accept the Citizen of the Year Award on behalf of their husband and father, Hays Police Sgt. Scott Heimann, who was killed in the line of duty in 2025.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Beth Heimann and her children accept the Citizen of the Year Award on behalf of their husband and father, Hays Police Sgt. Scott Heimann, who was killed in the line of duty in 2025.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>• Nex-Tech Citizen of the Year Award: Scott Heimann, Hays Police Department sergeant (posthumous) <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769574232549.jpeg" alt="Clare Gustin accepts the&nbsp;Golden Belt Bank Hall of Fame Award.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Clare Gustin accepts the&nbsp;Golden Belt Bank Hall of Fame Award.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>• Golden Belt Bank Hall of Fame Award: Clare Gustin, board chair for the Innovation Center The annual banquet honors individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and dedication help strengthen Hays and Ellis County. Sincere notes of thanksgiving are extended to all sponsors whose generous support helped make the event possible.Thanks to the dedicated service business professionals across the community, The Chamber offered nearly 250 ways for members to engage in 2025, and advocated on behalf of quality of life for all Ellis County residents.For more information about the Chamber in Hays or the 2026 award winners, visit <a href="http://hayschamber.com">hayschamber.com</a>.

Chamber in Hays honors community members, organizations during banquet

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A man sprayed an unknown substance on Democratic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ilhan-omar">U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar</a>&nbsp;and was tackled to the ground Tuesday during a town hall in Minneapolis, where tensions over federal immigration enforcement&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-ice-b0cec9d1c5bae4b62469011775082300">have come to a head</a>&nbsp;after agents fatally shot an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-alex-pretti-border-patrol-shooting-investigation-9d8ac8531f0d195ada3374c86a9deb21">intensive care nurse</a>&nbsp;and a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-shooting-minneapolis-minnesota-9aa822670b705c89906f2c699f1d16c5">mother of three</a>&nbsp;this month.

The audience cheered as the man was pinned down and his arms were tied behind his back. In video of the incident, someone in the crowd can be heard saying, “Oh my god, he sprayed something on her.”

Just before that Omar had called for the abolishment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and for Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to resign.

Minneapolis police said officers saw a man use a syringe to spray an unknown liquid at Omar. They immediately arrested him and booked him at the county jail for third-degree assault, spokesperson Trevor Folke said in an email. Police also said forensic scientists responded to the scene.

Omar continued the town hall after the man was ushered out of the room by her security detail, saying she would not be intimidated. Journalists said there was a strong, vinegar-like smell when the man pushed on the syringe.

Walking out afterward, Omar said she felt a little flustered but was not hurt. She was going to be screened by a medical team.

She later posted on the social platform X: “I’m ok. I’m a survivor so this small agitator isn’t going to intimidate me from doing my work. I don’t let bullies win. Grateful to my incredible constituents who rallied behind me. Minnesota strong.”

The White House did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment Tuesday night.

President Donald Trump has frequently criticized the congresswoman and has stepped up verbal attacks on her in recent months as he turned his focus on Minneapolis.

During a Cabinet meeting in December, he called her “garbage” and added that “her friends are garbage.”

Hours earlier on Tuesday, the president criticized Omar as he spoke to a crowd in Iowa, saying his administration would only let in immigrants who “can show that they love our country.”

“They have to be proud, not like Ilhan Omar,” he said, drawing loud boos at the mention of her name.

He added: “She comes from a country that’s a disaster. So probably, it’s considered, I think — it’s not even a country.”

Fellow U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, a South Carolina Republican, denounced the assault on Omar.

“I am deeply disturbed to learn that Rep. Ilhan Omar was attacked at a town hall today” Mace said via X. “Regardless of how vehemently I disagree with her rhetoric — and I do — no elected official should face physical attacks. This is not who we are.”

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, a Democrat, also condemned the attack on X, saying: “Unacceptable. Violence and intimidation have no place in Minneapolis. We can disagree without putting people at risk.”

He added that he was relieved that Omar “is OK” and thanked police for their quick response, concluding: “This kind of behavior will not be tolerated in our city.”

The attack came days after a man was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sundance-film-festival-congressman-assault-ff98382c02bdecdbf5c28ac0b677ac6a">arrested in Utah</a>&nbsp;for allegedly punching U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost, a Democrat from Florida, in the face during the Sundance Film Festival and saying Trump was going to deport him.

Threats against members of Congress have increased in recent years, peaking in 2021 and the aftermath of that year’s Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, before dipping slightly only to climb again, according to the most recent figures from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uscp.gov/media-center/press-releases/uscp-threat-assessment-cases-2024" target="_blank">U.S. Capitol Police</a>.

Lawmakers have discussed the chill the threats bring on their ability to hold town halls and public events, with some even citing the threat environment in their decisions not to seek reelection.

Omar has faced the most particular concern, long targeted with harsh language and personal attacks by Trump and other Republicans.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A man sprayed an unknown substance on Democratic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ilhan-omar">U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar</a>&nbsp;and was tackled to the ground Tuesday during a town hall in Minneapolis, where tensions over federal immigration enforcement&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-ice-b0cec9d1c5bae4b62469011775082300">have come to a head</a>&nbsp;after agents fatally shot an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-alex-pretti-border-patrol-shooting-investigation-9d8ac8531f0d195ada3374c86a9deb21">intensive care nurse</a>&nbsp;and a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-shooting-minneapolis-minnesota-9aa822670b705c89906f2c699f1d16c5">mother of three</a>&nbsp;this month.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) assaulted during town hall meeting: &quot;Here&#39;s the reality that people like this ugly man don&#39;t understand; we are Minnesota strong and we will stay resilient in the face of whatever they might throw at us.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/Ud5l3yP4lQ">pic.twitter.com/Ud5l3yP4lQ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2016320453132869910?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The audience cheered as the man was pinned down and his arms were tied behind his back. In video of the incident, someone in the crowd can be heard saying, “Oh my god, he sprayed something on her.”Just before that Omar had called for the abolishment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and for Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to resign.“ICE cannot be reformed,” she said.Minneapolis police said officers saw a man use a syringe to spray an unknown liquid at Omar. They immediately arrested him and booked him at the county jail for third-degree assault, spokesperson Trevor Folke said in an email. Police also said forensic scientists responded to the scene.Omar continued the town hall after the man was ushered out of the room by her security detail, saying she would not be intimidated. Journalists said there was a strong, vinegar-like smell when the man pushed on the syringe.Walking out afterward, Omar said she felt a little flustered but was not hurt. She was going to be screened by a medical team.She later posted on the social platform X: “I’m ok. I’m a survivor so this small agitator isn’t going to intimidate me from doing my work. I don’t let bullies win. Grateful to my incredible constituents who rallied behind me. Minnesota strong.”The White House did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment Tuesday night.President Donald Trump has frequently criticized the congresswoman and has stepped up verbal attacks on her in recent months as he turned his focus on Minneapolis.During a Cabinet meeting in December, he called her “garbage” and added that “her friends are garbage.”Hours earlier on Tuesday, the president criticized Omar as he spoke to a crowd in Iowa, saying his administration would only let in immigrants who “can show that they love our country.”“They have to be proud, not like Ilhan Omar,” he said, drawing loud boos at the mention of her name.He added: “She comes from a country that’s a disaster. So probably, it’s considered, I think — it’s not even a country.”Fellow U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, a South Carolina Republican, denounced the assault on Omar.“I am deeply disturbed to learn that Rep. Ilhan Omar was attacked at a town hall today” Mace said via X. “Regardless of how vehemently I disagree with her rhetoric — and I do — no elected official should face physical attacks. This is not who we are.”Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, a Democrat, also condemned the attack on X, saying: “Unacceptable. Violence and intimidation have no place in Minneapolis. We can disagree without putting people at risk.”He added that he was relieved that Omar “is OK” and thanked police for their quick response, concluding: “This kind of behavior will not be tolerated in our city.”The attack came days after a man was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sundance-film-festival-congressman-assault-ff98382c02bdecdbf5c28ac0b677ac6a">arrested in Utah</a>&nbsp;for allegedly punching U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost, a Democrat from Florida, in the face during the Sundance Film Festival and saying Trump was going to deport him.Threats against members of Congress have increased in recent years, peaking in 2021 and the aftermath of that year’s Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, before dipping slightly only to climb again, according to the most recent figures from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uscp.gov/media-center/press-releases/uscp-threat-assessment-cases-2024" target="_blank">U.S. Capitol Police</a>.Lawmakers have discussed the chill the threats bring on their ability to hold town halls and public events, with some even citing the threat environment in their decisions not to seek reelection.Omar has faced the most particular concern, long targeted with harsh language and personal attacks by Trump and other Republicans.___Schoenbaum reported from Salt Lake City.

🎥U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar assaulted during town hall meeting

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post Sports

GREAT BEND – The TMP-Marian Monarchs girls’ and boys’
basketball teams split a non-conference doubleheader Tuesday night at Great
Bend High School.

The Lady Monarchs picked up a 50-32 victory. The TMP boys
fell 75-62.

GIRLS: TMP 50, Great Bend 32 TMP’s Hannah Rose scored eight of the Monarchs' first 10
points as the Monarchs raced out to an early lead and never trailed as they
beat the Panthers 50-32 Tuesday.

Rose connected on back-to-back three pointers to put TMP
(8-5) up 6-0. Raegan Allen and Rose added a pair of field goals, giving TMP the
10-0 lead.

After Great Bend (3-11) closed within seven points, at 15-7,
Paige Koenigsman knocked down a three-pointer in the final seconds of the first
quarter, putting TMP up 18-8.

Great Bend again closed with nine points to open the second
quarter before the Monarchs closed the quarter on a 13-4 run to end the first
half and open the third quarter for a 32-15 TMP lead.

The Monarchs used a 12-2 run in the fourth quarter to secure
the double-digit victory, 50-32.

Hannah Rose led all scorers with 10 points, and Claire Schippers
added 9 points.

BOYS: Great Bend 75, TMP 62 The Great Bend Panthers erased a 22-point first-half TMP
lead in a 75-62 victory.

After a pair of early lead changes and two ties, the Monarchs
strung together a 26-4 run, giving TMP the 30-8 first-half lead.

Ty Schmeidler scored eight of his game-high 16 points, and Will
Eck scored nine points during the first-quarter run as the Monarchs outscored
Great Bend 25-8.

Schmeidler scored five straight
points to start the second quarter as TMP built its largest lead of the game at
30-8.

After that, Great Bend wrestled
the momentum away from TMP, and they answered with a 34-8 run to close out the
first half and begin the second.

That allowed the Panthers to
storm back and take the lead at 42-38.

TMP’s Jacob Seib briefly gave the
Monarchs a 54-53 lead on the first possession of the fourth quarter, but Great
Bend answered with a three-pointer for a 56-54 lead.

A lead they never surrendered in
the 75-62 victory.

Jacob Hall led all scorers with
28 for the Panthers. 

The Monarchs will travel to Larned Friday.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post SportsGREAT BEND – The TMP-Marian Monarchs girls’ and boys’
basketball teams split a non-conference doubleheader Tuesday night at Great
Bend High School.The Lady Monarchs picked up a 50-32 victory. The TMP boys
fell 75-62.GIRLS: TMP 50, Great Bend 32 TMP’s Hannah Rose scored eight of the Monarchs' first 10
points as the Monarchs raced out to an early lead and never trailed as they
beat the Panthers 50-32 Tuesday.Rose connected on back-to-back three pointers to put TMP
(8-5) up 6-0. Raegan Allen and Rose added a pair of field goals, giving TMP the
10-0 lead.After Great Bend (3-11) closed within seven points, at 15-7,
Paige Koenigsman knocked down a three-pointer in the final seconds of the first
quarter, putting TMP up 18-8.Great Bend again closed with nine points to open the second
quarter before the Monarchs closed the quarter on a 13-4 run to end the first
half and open the third quarter for a 32-15 TMP lead.The Monarchs used a 12-2 run in the fourth quarter to secure
the double-digit victory, 50-32.Hannah Rose led all scorers with 10 points, and Claire Schippers
added 9 points.BOYS: Great Bend 75, TMP 62 The Great Bend Panthers erased a 22-point first-half TMP
lead in a 75-62 victory.After a pair of early lead changes and two ties, the Monarchs
strung together a 26-4 run, giving TMP the 30-8 first-half lead.Ty Schmeidler scored eight of his game-high 16 points, and Will
Eck scored nine points during the first-quarter run as the Monarchs outscored
Great Bend 25-8.Schmeidler scored five straight
points to start the second quarter as TMP built its largest lead of the game at
30-8.After that, Great Bend wrestled
the momentum away from TMP, and they answered with a 34-8 run to close out the
first half and begin the second.That allowed the Panthers to
storm back and take the lead at 42-38.TMP’s Jacob Seib briefly gave the
Monarchs a 54-53 lead on the first possession of the fourth quarter, but Great
Bend answered with a three-pointer for a 56-54 lead.A lead they never surrendered in
the 75-62 victory.Schmeidler led TMP with 15
points.Jacob Hall led all scorers with
28 for the Panthers. The Monarchs will travel to Larned Friday.

🏀 TMP splits doubleheader at Great Bend

WASHINGTON (AP) —<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;said Tuesday a “big investigation” was underway into the killing of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-protester-alex-pretti-15ade7de6e19cb0291734e85dac763dc">protester and ICU nurse</a>&nbsp;Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis.

“I want to see the investigation. I’m going to be watching over it, and I want a very honorable and honest investigation. I have to see it myself,” the president said as he left the White House.

The comment is the latest marker of Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-pretti-minnesota-immigration-enforcement-eb9e63a625b624d2ba4ed467cb0f956c">sudden turnabout on the issue</a>&nbsp;as his administration confronts growing pushback — including from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-immigration-republicans-trump-pretti-988f694e4e1187033551fd23afde4c02">some Republicans</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-pretti-minnesota-second-amendment-ice-ffef56cab9930e52273f8227251452f4">Second Amendment advocates</a>&nbsp;— on federal agents’ tactics in the second fatal shooting from the aggressive immigration operation in Minnesota.

A day earlier, the White House made an effort to distance Trump from some early comments by high-ranking administration officials who had branded Pretti as a domestic terrorist despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-ice-alex-pretti-videos-861a0d8f3ee182f3b5909b3613900e2e">videos of the encounter contradicting their narrative.</a>

Immigration agents were active Tuesday across the Twin Cities region, but it was unclear if officials had changed tactics after the shift in tone from the White House.

President Trump says Pretti ‘shouldn’t have been carrying a gun’

As he greeted diners in a Des Moines-area restaurant, Trump again weighed in on the Minnesota shooting.

“We view that as a very unfortunate incident, OK?,” he said, adding that everyone “unless you’re a stupid person” viewed it that way.

In comments that were likely to further irritate his backers who are also strong Second Amendment supports, he said: “I don’t like that he had a gun. I don’t like that he had two fully loaded magazines. That’s a lot of bad stuff.”

Trump suggests his shakeup of federal officials in Minnesota may ‘de-escalate’ thing

Trump said during an interview on Fox News’ “Will Cain Show” of his sending Homan to Minnesota, “we’re going to de-escalate a little bit.”

That’s significant since White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, when questioned repeatedly Monday about Homan’s being dispatched to Minnesota, refused to say that doing so was an effort to calm the situation.

The president added of Homan, “Tom, as tough as he is, gets along” with governors and mayors, even in Democratic areas.

Trump also spoke of Bovino, who has been sent out of Minnesota. He said Bovino is “very good” but also that “he’s a pretty out-there kind of a guy” and “maybe it wasn’t good here.”

Schumer says Noem is ‘incompetent’ and a ‘liar’ and should be fired

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said Tuesday that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is “a liar,” “vicious” and “incompetent” and must be fired after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-ice-b0cec9d1c5bae4b62469011775082300">fatal shootings of two Minneapolis protesters</a>&nbsp;by federal authorities.

In opening floor remarks as the Senate returned to Washington, Schumer said that Democrats will not vote for Homeland Security funding as part of a wide-ranging spending bill passed by the House last week. The government will partially shut down if the Senate doesn’t pass the legislation by Friday.

Schumer said Republicans should strip the Homeland spending portion out of the bill and should not force a vote on legislation “that everyone knows cannot pass.”

“The ball is in Leader Thune’s court,” Schumer said of Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D.

Democrats have criticized Noem and other officials for saying that 37 year-old Alex Pretti “approached” immigration officers with a gun and acted violently when video evidence appears to show otherwise.

Schumer stopped short of saying that Noem should be impeached as dozens of Democrats have signed on to an impeachment resolution in the House.

Democratic Sen. Tammy Baldwin supports impeaching Kristi Noem if she’s not fired

Democratic U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin, of Wisconsin where Alex Pretti grew up and graduated from high school, said she supports impeaching Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

“She has to go,” Baldwin told reporters during an online news conference Tuesday. “She needs to be fired or she should resign. ... If impeachment is the way to do it, I’d support it.”

Baldwin also said she would not vote for the DHS funding bill before the Senate without additional accountability measures for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

“ICE is out of control and they are wreaking havoc on American cities, including Minneapolis-St. Paul,” Baldwin said. “The question is are my Republican colleagues just going to look away or are they going to join us in adding accountability measures that rein in ICE?”

Minneapolis mayor asks border czar to quickly end immigration enforcement surge

Mayor Jacob Frey told President Donald Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, that the city will not enforce federal immigration laws, and he asked that the immigration enforcement surge “come to an end as quickly as possible.”

Homan met with Frey and Minneapolis police chief Brian O’Hara Tuesday morning.

“Public safety works best when it’s built on community trust — not tactics that create fear or division,” Frey said in a statement released after the meeting. “I shared with Mr. Homan the serious negative impacts this operation has had on Minneapolis and surrounding communities, as well as the strain it has placed on our local police officers.”

Frey said the city would “remain focused on keeping our neighbors and streets safe.”

Trump says Minneapolis victim’s parents’ support for him makes him feel ‘even worse’

Trump called the fatal shootings of two Americans by federal agents in Minneapolis “terrible” and said that hearing that one was the daughter of Trump supporters makes it even worse for him.

Renee Good, 37, was shot by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-shooting-minneapolis-minnesota-9aa822670b705c89906f2c699f1d16c5">on Jan. 7</a>. Alex Pretti, also 37, was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-protester-alex-pretti-15ade7de6e19cb0291734e85dac763dc">killed on Jan. 24</a>.

“I’m not sure about his parents but I know her parents were big Trump fans. Makes me feel bad anyway. But I mean, I guess you could say even worse,” he said.

Trump made the comments Tuesday in an interview with Fox News in Iowa, where he had flown earlier that day to speak at a rally in the Des Moines area.

House Democratic leader says Noem must go — or face impeachment proceedings

“The country is disgusted by what the Department of Homeland Security has done,” said Leader Hakeem Jeffries in a statement.

The Democrat is the latest in a growing number of voices — from party leaders to advocacy groups to the most centrist of lawmakers in Congress — insisting on dramatic changes in the aftermath of the shooting deaths in Minnesota.

“Kristi Noem should be fired immediately or we will commence impeachment proceedings in the House,” said Jeffries, whose party would need GOP support on any legislation to launch such an effort.

“The violence unleased on the American people by the Department of Homeland Security must end.”

Trump disputes staff and says slain Alex Pretti was not an ‘assassin’

Trump was asked if the killed Minneapolis protester was an “assassin” as a key aide has claimed and the president answered “no.”

The president added, however, that protesters “can’t have guns” as Pretti did and “it’s just a very unfortunate incident.” Trump has said he wants the death investigated.

WASHINGTON (AP) —<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;said Tuesday a “big investigation” was underway into the killing of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-protester-alex-pretti-15ade7de6e19cb0291734e85dac763dc">protester and ICU nurse</a>&nbsp;Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis.“I want to see the investigation. I’m going to be watching over it, and I want a very honorable and honest investigation. I have to see it myself,” the president said as he left the White House.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Q: &quot;What would you say to Alex Pretti&#39;s family?&quot; President Trump: &quot;I&#39;m looking at that whole situation. I love everybody. I love all of our people. I love his family. It&#39;s a very sad situation.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/rlY3FpDy3T">pic.twitter.com/rlY3FpDy3T</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2016210618945093974?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on the investigation into Alex Pretti&#39;s death: &quot;We&#39;re doing a big investigation. I want to see the investigation. I&#39;m going to be watching over it. I want a very honorable and honest investigation — I have to see it myself.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/swvIUrkqZv">pic.twitter.com/swvIUrkqZv</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2016203640378138745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The comment is the latest marker of Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-pretti-minnesota-immigration-enforcement-eb9e63a625b624d2ba4ed467cb0f956c">sudden turnabout on the issue</a>&nbsp;as his administration confronts growing pushback — including from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-immigration-republicans-trump-pretti-988f694e4e1187033551fd23afde4c02">some Republicans</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-pretti-minnesota-second-amendment-ice-ffef56cab9930e52273f8227251452f4">Second Amendment advocates</a>&nbsp;— on federal agents’ tactics in the second fatal shooting from the aggressive immigration operation in Minnesota.A day earlier, the White House made an effort to distance Trump from some early comments by high-ranking administration officials who had branded Pretti as a domestic terrorist despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-ice-alex-pretti-videos-861a0d8f3ee182f3b5909b3613900e2e">videos of the encounter contradicting their narrative.</a>Immigration agents were active Tuesday across the Twin Cities region, but it was unclear if officials had changed tactics after the shift in tone from the White House.The Latest:<h2>President Trump says Pretti ‘shouldn’t have been carrying a gun’</h2><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Q: &quot;Do you agree with the assessment from some of your own officials that Alex Pretti is a domestic terrorist or an assassin?&quot; President Trump: &quot;Well, I haven&#39;t heard that but certainly he shouldn&#39;t have been carrying a gun...we view that as a very unfortunate incident...unless… <a href="https://t.co/2gXrz5bR1O">pic.twitter.com/2gXrz5bR1O</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2016254013587734611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>As he greeted diners in a Des Moines-area restaurant, Trump again weighed in on the Minnesota shooting.“We view that as a very unfortunate incident, OK?,” he said, adding that everyone “unless you’re a stupid person” viewed it that way.In comments that were likely to further irritate his backers who are also strong Second Amendment supports, he said: “I don’t like that he had a gun. I don’t like that he had two fully loaded magazines. That’s a lot of bad stuff.”<h2>Trump suggests his shakeup of federal officials in Minnesota may ‘de-escalate’ thing</h2>Trump said during an interview on Fox News’ “Will Cain Show” of his sending Homan to Minnesota, “we’re going to de-escalate a little bit.”That’s significant since White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, when questioned repeatedly Monday about Homan’s being dispatched to Minnesota, refused to say that doing so was an effort to calm the situation.The president added of Homan, “Tom, as tough as he is, gets along” with governors and mayors, even in Democratic areas.Trump also spoke of Bovino, who has been sent out of Minnesota. He said Bovino is “very good” but also that “he’s a pretty out-there kind of a guy” and “maybe it wasn’t good here.”<h2>Schumer says Noem is ‘incompetent’ and a ‘liar’ and should be fired</h2>Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said Tuesday that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is “a liar,” “vicious” and “incompetent” and must be fired after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-ice-b0cec9d1c5bae4b62469011775082300">fatal shootings of two Minneapolis protesters</a>&nbsp;by federal authorities.In opening floor remarks as the Senate returned to Washington, Schumer said that Democrats will not vote for Homeland Security funding as part of a wide-ranging spending bill passed by the House last week. The government will partially shut down if the Senate doesn’t pass the legislation by Friday.Schumer said Republicans should strip the Homeland spending portion out of the bill and should not force a vote on legislation “that everyone knows cannot pass.”“The ball is in Leader Thune’s court,” Schumer said of Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D.Democrats have criticized Noem and other officials for saying that 37 year-old Alex Pretti “approached” immigration officers with a gun and acted violently when video evidence appears to show otherwise.Schumer stopped short of saying that Noem should be impeached as dozens of Democrats have signed on to an impeachment resolution in the House.<h2>Democratic Sen. Tammy Baldwin supports impeaching Kristi Noem if she’s not fired</h2>Democratic U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin, of Wisconsin where Alex Pretti grew up and graduated from high school, said she supports impeaching Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.“She has to go,” Baldwin told reporters during an online news conference Tuesday. “She needs to be fired or she should resign. ... If impeachment is the way to do it, I’d support it.”Baldwin also said she would not vote for the DHS funding bill before the Senate without additional accountability measures for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.“ICE is out of control and they are wreaking havoc on American cities, including Minneapolis-St. Paul,” Baldwin said. “The question is are my Republican colleagues just going to look away or are they going to join us in adding accountability measures that rein in ICE?”<h2>Minneapolis mayor asks border czar to quickly end immigration enforcement surge</h2>Mayor Jacob Frey told President Donald Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, that the city will not enforce federal immigration laws, and he asked that the immigration enforcement surge “come to an end as quickly as possible.”Homan met with Frey and Minneapolis police chief Brian O’Hara Tuesday morning.“Public safety works best when it’s built on community trust — not tactics that create fear or division,” Frey said in a statement released after the meeting. “I shared with Mr. Homan the serious negative impacts this operation has had on Minneapolis and surrounding communities, as well as the strain it has placed on our local police officers.”Frey said the city would “remain focused on keeping our neighbors and streets safe.”<h2>Trump says Minneapolis victim’s parents’ support for him makes him feel ‘even worse’</h2>Trump called the fatal shootings of two Americans by federal agents in Minneapolis “terrible” and said that hearing that one was the daughter of Trump supporters makes it even worse for him.Renee Good, 37, was shot by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-shooting-minneapolis-minnesota-9aa822670b705c89906f2c699f1d16c5">on Jan. 7</a>. Alex Pretti, also 37, was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-protester-alex-pretti-15ade7de6e19cb0291734e85dac763dc">killed on Jan. 24</a>.“I’m not sure about his parents but I know her parents were big Trump fans. Makes me feel bad anyway. But I mean, I guess you could say even worse,” he said.Trump made the comments Tuesday in an interview with Fox News in Iowa, where he had flown earlier that day to speak at a rally in the Des Moines area.<h2>House Democratic leader says Noem must go — or face impeachment proceedings</h2>“The country is disgusted by what the Department of Homeland Security has done,” said Leader Hakeem Jeffries in a statement.The Democrat is the latest in a growing number of voices — from party leaders to advocacy groups to the most centrist of lawmakers in Congress — insisting on dramatic changes in the aftermath of the shooting deaths in Minnesota.“Kristi Noem should be fired immediately or we will commence impeachment proceedings in the House,” said Jeffries, whose party would need GOP support on any legislation to launch such an effort.“The violence unleased on the American people by the Department of Homeland Security must end.”<h2>Trump disputes staff and says slain Alex Pretti was not an ‘assassin’</h2>Trump was asked if the killed Minneapolis protester was an “assassin” as a key aide has claimed and the president answered “no.”The president added, however, that protesters “can’t have guns” as Pretti did and “it’s just a very unfortunate incident.” Trump has said he wants the death investigated.On Saturday, White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller on social media described Pretti as an “assassin” who “tried to murder federal agents.” Vice President JD Vance shared the post on X as well.<h2>Trump says Noem isn’t going to resign</h2>Asked by reporters as he left the White House on Tuesday for a trip to Iowa whether Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is going to step down, Trump had a one-word answer: “No.”He did not elaborate further.Democrats in Congress have called for Noem’s exit after federal agents fatally shot two people in Minneapolis protesting immigration enforcement actions.