Trump's Shift: From Tough Talk to Teamwork in Minnesota

Tue Feb 03 2026 12:56:33 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a surprising turn of events, President Trump adopts a softer stance on immigration following a protester’s tragic death in Minneapolis. As tensions brew, is a change in strategy on the horizon?

President Trump has unexpectedly softened his approach towards Minnesota's Democratic leaders after a protester was killed by federal agents during an immigration crackdown. The incident has sparked criticism even from within his party and led to a shift in his administration's tactics in the state. Amid previous threats of aggression toward Iran and tariffs on European allies, Trump's newfound conciliatory tone with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz marks a significant turnaround in his immigration policy and could suggest a reevaluation of his administration's federal operations.

In a surprise move, President Donald Trump shifted towards a conciliatory approach with Democratic leaders in Minnesota following the shooting of a protester, Alex Pretti, by federal agents during a crackdown on undocumented immigrants. This incident has ignited criticism from both sides of the aisle regarding Trump’s aggressive immigration policies.

This marks yet another instance of Trump’s tendency to adopt a hardline stance only to later backtrack. Earlier this month, he threatened military action against Iran in response to their handling of protests, but later paused after receiving assurances from Tehran. Similarly, he initially announced tariffs on European allies over Greenland but then abruptly canceled them after significant backlash.

On Monday, Trump acknowledged the complexity of his administration's immigration operation in Minnesota, claiming to be on a 'similar wavelength' with Governor Walz. This shift is particularly striking given their previous exchanges where Trump had referred to Walz in harsh terms.

As further scrutiny of federal agents’ tactics ensues, some Republicans, including Texas Governor Greg Abbott, have voiced a need for recalibration of approach in Minnesota, questioning the effectiveness of the current operational strategies. Advocates for humane treatment of migrants argue the recent federal actions have been disastrous, leading some political figures to distance themselves from the GOP in reaction.

Trump's muted response to the deaths of Pretti and another protester contrasts sharply with his immediate reactions to violence against his supporters, raising questions about his priorities. As Minnesota mayors and GOP candidates express frustration, the unfolding situation leaves many speculating about the future of federal immigration operations and Trump's position heading into the election season.