Minneapolis Mayor on the Lies of the Trump Administration

The Dangerous Narrative Unraveled

On January 8, 2026, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey penned a compelling essay that directly confronts misinformation and fear-mongering surrounding immigration enforcement and public safety. In his piece, originally published in The New York Times, Frey recounts not only the tragic consequences of misguided federal policies under the Trump administration but also the visceral disconnect between local governance and federal cronyism.

Historical Context

Frey provides critical historical context, recalling the aftermath of the I-35W bridge collapse in 2007—a time when cooperation between federal and state agencies was paramount to saving lives. He notes how past administrations, regardless of party affiliation, took their responsibilities seriously, emphasizing that politics ceased at the water's edge when lives were on the line. Unfortunately, that spirit appears to have vanished in the chaos of the Trump years.

A System of Fear

With poignant clarity, the mayor critiques the predatory tactics of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deployed in Minneapolis:

• In recent months, ICE agents have used heavy-handed methods, including the shocking public arrest of a pregnant woman.
• The fatal shooting of Minneapolis resident Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent exemplifies the chaos that this administration has normalized.

Frey highlights how Trump's strained relationship with Minnesota and other blue cities is reflected in moments of crisis, where perceived threats are exaggerated, undermining the humanity of those targeted, perpetuating a narrative that has real consequences on the streets.

The Immediate Aftermath

The essay vividly narrates the emotional turmoil following Good's death. With an urgency that compels the reader's attention, Frey explains that he felt unease, not shock, when he learned about the incident: "Nothing about this was shocking. The chaos that ICE... have brought to Minneapolis made this tragedy sadly predictable." Frey rebukes Trump's characterizations of Good's actions as unfounded and delivers a stark reminder that victims of these federal measures are often mere statistics in a political game.

Propaganda and Truth

The venomous rhetoric from Washington seeks to vilify not only immigrants but also the American citizens who champion them. — Jacob Frey

This statement encapsulates Frey's perspective: the fight transcends local politics and roots itself deeply in the social fabric of America. By framing immigration enforcement as synonymous with public safety, the administration perpetuates a cycle of distrust lurking just beneath the surface.

Calls to Action

Frey's powerful conclusion serves both as a wake-up call to other city leaders and a manifesto of hope: “Cities are on the front lines of this dark hour in our national politics. But after we weather this moment—and we will weather it—it will be on us to light the way forward.” He emphasizes the critical need for cities to build strong communities that demonstrate the tangible benefits of inclusivity and compassion.

Empowering Change Through Accountability

As I read through Frey's observations, I feel an urgent responsibility to amplify his message. It resonates deeply in a time of increasing isolationism. His narrative isn't just local; it reflects broader societal challenges we face as a nation. Investigative journalism serves a critical role in uncovering truths that fuel civic engagement and hold power to account.

Conclusion

Mayor Frey's essay is a piercing critique that urges us to reconsider how we discuss immigration, safety, and community. His call for accountable leadership in municipalities represents a microcosm of what we must strive for on a national scale. The future of our communities relies heavily on the stories we share, the truths we uncover, and the alliances we forge.