Oklahoma Governor Condemns Federal Immigration Tactics Following Minneapolis Shooting
Republican Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has launched a scathing critique of the White House's handling of controversial Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in Minnesota. The governor's comments follow the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Alex Pretti by Border Patrol agents on the streets of Minneapolis, an incident that has sparked widespread protests and national debate.
'A Real Tragedy' That Raises Deep Concerns
In a Sunday interview with CNN, Governor Stitt described the situation as 'a real tragedy' that has generated significant public anxiety about federal enforcement methods. 'I think the death of Americans, what we're seeing on TV, is causing deep concerns over federal tactics and accountability,' Stitt stated emphatically. 'Americans don't like what we're seeing right now.'
The governor acknowledged that while President Donald Trump's promises to crack down on illegal immigration remain important to many citizens, he questioned whether current measures represent appropriate implementation. 'Now, Americans are asking themselves, "What's the endgame? What's the solution?"' he continued, highlighting growing public uncertainty about enforcement objectives.
Federalism and State Rights at the Forefront
Stitt placed particular emphasis on principles of federalism and state sovereignty during his critique. 'We believe in federalism, states' rights. Nobody likes feds coming into their state,' he remarked, before posing a crucial question about enforcement strategy. 'So, what's the goal right now? Is it to deport every single non-U.S. citizen? I don't think that's what Americans want.'
When pressed about whether federal agents should be withdrawn from Minnesota streets, the governor deferred to presidential authority while suggesting the administration was receiving poor counsel. 'He's a dealmaker. He's getting bad advice right now,' Stitt commented regarding President Trump. 'How do we bring this to a conclusion? Only the President can answer that question.'
Calls for Depoliticisation and Clear Strategy
Governor Stitt stressed the urgent need to move beyond political posturing toward substantive policy solutions. 'We have to stop politicizing this. We need real solutions on immigration reform,' he asserted, advocating for practical approaches over partisan rhetoric.
In a Facebook statement, Stitt expressed measured support for the administration's decision to send Tom Homan to Minnesota as 'fresh eyes' on the situation. 'Americans are for a secure border and law and order, but they want a clear end game for operations in their states,' he wrote. 'President Trump is a dealmaker, and I am hopeful this will come to a reasonable conclusion.'
Joint Statement with National Governors Association
Alongside National Governors Association Vice Chair and Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Stitt released a formal statement emphasising gubernatorial leadership during public crises. The declaration asserted that governors remain 'best positioned' to address challenges within their respective states and territories.
'At the same time, moments of national strain require clear leadership, shared purpose, and coordination across all levels of government,' the statement continued, highlighting the necessity for intergovernmental cooperation during turbulent periods.
The governors emphasised that 'clarity of purpose is essential to maintaining public trust, ensuring accountability, and avoiding unintended escalation.' They further argued that federal authority should operate within 'a transparent strategy that complements—rather than supplants—state and local efforts to uphold the law.'
Urgent Appeal for Coordinated Approach
Stitt and Moore jointly urged fellow governors to pressure 'leaders at all levels' to 'exercise wisdom and consider a reset strategy toward a unified vision for immigration enforcement.' While acknowledging the need to hold criminals accountable, they stressed that 'moments like this demand thoughtful leadership, coordination, and clarity.'
'Scenes of violence and chaos on our streets are unacceptable and do not reflect who we are,' the governors declared, condemning the turbulent protests that have followed Pretti's death.
The statement concluded with a call for collaborative governance: 'States and the federal government should work together to ensure laws are enforced, communities are protected, and constitutional norms are preserved. We believe strong leadership at every level—federal, state, and local—requires collaboration, communication, and respect for each other’s roles.'
Controversial Circumstances Surrounding Pretti's Death
Governor Stitt's intervention follows the controversial killing of Minnesota nurse Alex Pretti, who was fatally shot by Border Patrol agents during enforcement operations. Disturbing footage from the incident shows Pretti being pepper-sprayed, forced to his knees, and surrounded by multiple Department of Homeland Security agents who struggled to restrain him before shots were fired.
Federal officials have claimed Pretti 'brandished' a weapon and posed a threat to officers, with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stating he 'approached the officers and when they attempted to disarm him, he "reacted violently."' Video evidence appears to show approximately ten shots being fired, including rounds discharged after Pretti lay motionless on the pavement.
Democratic leaders and Pretti's family have vehemently contested the official narrative, describing it as a 'sickening lie' and maintaining that video evidence shows he was 'gunned down in cold blood.' The Trump administration has alternatively characterised Pretti as a 'domestic terrorist' shot in self-defense by federal officers.
Escalating Protests and Mounting Tensions
Pretti's death has triggered substantial protests throughout Minnesota, marking the second fatal incident involving federal agents in the state within weeks. Demonstrators have swarmed Minneapolis streets, expressing outrage over what they perceive as excessive use of force and lack of accountability in immigration enforcement operations.
The growing controversy highlights deepening divisions between state and federal authorities regarding immigration enforcement strategies, with Governor Stitt's comments reflecting broader concerns about federal overreach and operational transparency. As tensions continue to escalate, calls for coordinated approaches and clear strategic objectives have gained increasing urgency among political leaders and concerned citizens alike.
