NY Governor Calls for Kristi Noem’s Resignation After Fatal Minneapolis Shooting
New York / Minneapolis: New York Governor Kathy Hochul on Saturday called for the resignation of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem following the fatal shooting of a U.S. citizen by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis earlier this week.
Speaking at a press conference on January 25, Hochul referenced the death of Alex Prey, a 37-year-old ICU nurse who was killed during a federal immigration operation. She said video footage circulating publicly shows Prey attempting to assist a woman who had been forced to the ground by federal agents moments before he was shot.
“He was an ICU nurse — someone whose job was saving lives,” Hochul said. “The video shows him doing exactly that: trying to help.”
Federal authorities have stated that the use of force was justified, alleging that Prey posed a threat to officers. Hochul rejected that characterization, saying publicly available video contradicts the government’s account. She described the shooting as part of what she called a broader and troubling pattern in federal immigration enforcement.
Immigration Enforcement Actions Involving Minors
During her remarks, Hochul also cited a previous fatal incident earlier this month in which a mother of three was shot during a federal operation, saying the two cases together had deeply shaken public confidence in federal law enforcement.
She further criticized recent immigration enforcement actions involving minors, including the detention of a five-year-old child returning from preschool and a two-year-old taken into custody while accompanying a parent. Hochul said such incidents have heightened public concern about the scope and execution of federal operations.
“When lethal force is used against civilians and state authorities are blocked from fully investigating,” Hochul said, “it undermines basic democratic principles and makes people feel unsafe — everywhere.”
The governor accused DHS leadership of allowing a culture of excessive force to develop and said Secretary Noem had mischaracterized protesters and victims in public statements. Hochul called on Noem to resign, urging President Donald Trump to remove her if she does not step down voluntarily. She also called for the dismissal of senior federal officials involved in directing the operations.
“No one is above the law,” Hochul said. “Not a federal officer. Not an ICE agent. Not the president.”
‘Wake-Up Call for America’ — Barack Obama
The Trump administration has defended its actions. In social media posts, President Trump praised federal immigration officers and urged Democratic governors and mayors to cooperate with enforcement efforts. He accused Minnesota officials of encouraging unrest and reiterated claims that federal agents are confronting widespread fraud and security threats.
Former President Barack Obama, meanwhile, described the Minneapolis shooting as a “wake-up call” and criticized federal enforcement tactics in Minnesota, according to statements released through associates.
Vice President JD Vance visited Minnesota this past week, reaffirming the administration’s support for the ongoing immigration crackdown, which is now in its ninth week. The operation was initially described by federal officials as targeting individuals with criminal records, though critics argue its scope has expanded significantly.
Images of detained children and protest footage from Minnesota have circulated widely, drawing national attention and intensifying scrutiny.
Senate Democrats Withdraw Support for DHS Funding
In Washington, Senate Democrats said Saturday they no longer support funding the Department of Homeland Security in its current form. Lawmakers indicated they would oppose any funding bill that does not include additional restrictions on immigration enforcement practices.
With DHS funding set to expire Friday, congressional aides acknowledged that a partial government shutdown is now a possibility if an agreement is not reached.
Alex Prey’s Family Responds
The family of Alex Prey issued a statement rejecting federal claims that he posed a threat. They said video footage shows Prey holding a cell phone, with one hand raised, as he attempted to shield a woman during the confrontation.
“The false statements made about our son are deeply hurtful,” the family said, adding that they are seeking accountability and transparency.
As investigations continue and protests spread beyond Minnesota, state officials in New York and elsewhere say further legal and political action may follow in the coming days.
