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The U.S. Justice Department is investigating whether public statements by Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey obstructed federal immigration enforcement, two people familiar with the matter said.
The investigation is focused on violations of conspiracy laws, the people said.
The people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the pending investigation by name.
CBS News first reported the investigation.
In response to the reports of the investigation, Waltz made a statement two days ago, Elisa Slokin. Last week it was Jerome Powell. Before that, Mark Kelly. Arming the justice system and intimidating political opponents is a dangerous, authoritarian strategy. “
Walsh’s office said it had not received any notice of investigation.
“This is a clear attempt to intimidate Minneapolis, our local law enforcement and our residents by protesting the chaos and danger this administration has brought to our streets,” Frey said in a statement. My focus will always be where it belongs: keeping our city safe.
The investigation follows a weeks-long immigration crackdown in Minneapolis and St. Paul that has resulted in more than 2,500 arrests in what the Department of Homeland Security calls its largest enforcement operation yet.
After the January 7 assassination of Rene Goode, the operation became more controversial. State and local officials have repeatedly told protesters to remain peaceful.