MINNEAPOLIS — January 26, 2026 — As protests swept cities across the United States over the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis this month, former President Bill Clinton issued a forceful statement Wednesday urging a transparent investigation, accountability, and renewed focus on civil liberties.
The national outcry began after 37-year-old Renee Good was shot and killed by an ICE agent on January 7 in south Minneapolis. Her death, which local medical examiners have ruled a homicide, sparked immediate protests and legal backlash.
Just weeks later, on January 24, federal agents again shot and killed ICU nurse Alex Jeffrey Pretti, a U.S. citizen with no significant criminal history, during an immigration enforcement action that has become one of the most contentious use-of-force incidents in recent U.S. history. Video footage reviewed by news organizations appears to contradict the official federal account of events — showing Pretti holding a phone, not a weapon, before he was tackled and shot.
Clinton’s Statement: ‘Too Much Is at Stake to Stay Silent’
In his statement, Clinton called both deaths tragic and unacceptable, echoed growing calls for accountability, and emphasized the need to protect constitutional rights even amid intense debate over immigration enforcement. He said:
“Regardless of where you stand on immigration policy, the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti demand our attention and our resolve. We must restore trust in the rule of law and ensure justice is pursued without fear or favor.”
Clinton also urged unity among former presidents, urging them to “stand together to uphold the principles that have long defined American democracy.” Senior aides confirmed he was in discussions with Jimmy Carter, Barack Obama, and George W. Bush about issuing a collective statement — a rare gesture that would underscore the seriousness with which former leaders view the crisis.
National Leaders Already Weighing In
The reaction from current leaders has been swift and polarized:
- President Biden’s administration has defended federal agencies’ right to enforce immigration laws but acknowledged the deaths raise serious questions about use of force that must be answered.
- Former President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama called the killing of Pretti a tragedy and a wake-up call that underscores systemic issues in how federal law enforcement operates.
- Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey have demanded an end to federal immigration enforcement operations in the city and full access for local investigators.
Public Outcry and Policy Implications
Thousands have taken to the streets in Minneapolis and in solidarity protests nationwide — from Chicago to San Francisco — demanding federal agents be held accountable and ICE operations be reevaluated. Critics, including the ACLU of Minnesota, have condemned the force used and called for the immediate withdrawal of federal agents.
Legal experts say the Good case could test the limits of federal immunity, potentially forcing courts to consider constitutional claims under the Federal Tort Claims Act — a development that might reshape how federal law enforcement operations are reviewed in civil courts.
What Comes Next
With bipartisan pressure mounting, the nation faces a pivotal moment. Governors, lawmakers, civil rights leaders, and now former presidents are demanding answers. As Clinton put it:
“We cannot let tragedy erode our values. We must meet this moment with courage, accountability, and a commitment to justice.”
