Staff Reports
In Minneapolis, almost 50 protesters found themselves in hot water when their demonstration outside a federal building took a turn for the worse. These demonstrators, perhaps thinking the best way to air their grievances was by throwing bottles and ice at federal agents, were swiftly introduced to the back seat of a patrol car. At least 42 arrests were made, and the chaos also left one federal agent injured and a patrol car looking like it lost a fight with a giant can opener.
Daily protests like these are turning into a nightmare for local businesses, which are already reeling from the after-effects of every crisis known to mankind. Restaurants are struggling to serve meals when more than half of their staff are too scared to come to work, fearing ICE agents might swoop in, snatching them up like an overzealous vacuum cleaner of justice—even if they’re citizens or have proper documentation. It’s a scene reminiscent of the chaos stirred up by the protests of 2020, but insiders say this is a whole new level of nuts.
It’s easy to point fingers at the Democratic leadership and their dance with denialism, insisting these protests are peaceful little gatherings, akin to a Sunday picnic minus the ants. However, the reality is showing itself to be quite different. Violence isn’t diminishing, and with 2,000 ICE agents still hanging around, like guests who just refuse to leave the party, it’s clear that something’s got to give.
Former DHS secretary Chad Wolf and ICE’s Tom Homan are taking a strong stand, urging local Democrats to put on their big-boy pants and proclaim, “enough is enough.” They’ve offered a carrot—withdraw some ICE agents if violence decreases—but they’ve also clutched a sizable stick, pointing out that, should violence continue, more agents will stay put. The message is clear: local leaders need to step up or watch as the chaos continues to eat their city alive.
Minneapolis has a decision to make, and it better be swift and sound. As they mull over their strategies, the American public is left wondering just how many more arrests are needed for the local leadership to take decisive action. Meanwhile, back in the nation, it becomes ever more apparent that these clashes aren’t merely about immigration policies—they’re about maintaining enough order for cities and their businesses to thrive. And at this rate, Minneapolis might need more than just a protest-free zone; they might need a miracle.
