On Saturday, January 17, 2026, the Minnesota National Guard was mobilized to support local law enforcement and emergency management agencies in Minneapolis. This move comes amid rising tensions over federal immigration enforcement and community protests. 🚨
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety announced on X that Guard members are “on standby, ready to assist” under orders from Governor Tim Walz. “They are not deployed to city streets at this time, but are ready to help support public safety, including the protection of life, preservation of property and the rights of all who assemble peacefully,” the post said.
Members of the Guard will wear reflective vests to distinguish themselves from other agencies. Last week, Governor Walz authorized the Guard to stage in key locations across south Minneapolis after two Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)-related shootings shook the community in early January.
The first incident on January 7 involved the fatal shooting of Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother. The second, occurring just days later, fueled nationwide protests and calls for greater accountability. “We need de-escalation, not more confrontation,” said Representative Ilhan Omar at a congressional hearing.
Earlier this week, former President Donald Trump suggested on his platform X that he might invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy federal troops and urged Minnesota leaders to “stop the professional agitators and insurrectionists from attacking the patriots of ICE.” Governor Walz pushed back, asking Trump to “turn the temperature down” and call off the rhetoric.
By Friday, Trump appeared to step back, telling reporters, “I don’t think I need it right now” when asked about the Insurrection Act. As the National Guard stands ready, Minneapolis remains on alert. Stay tuned for updates! ✊
Reference(s):
Minnesotan National Guard mobilized amid ongoing Minneapolis tensions
cgtn.com
