Former U.S. President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have sharply criticised President Donald Trump’s administration and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis, saying the incident reflects an **“assault” on America’s core values and should serve as a national wake-up call.
The Obamas issued a joint statement condemning the killing of Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse, and calling it a “heartbreaking tragedy” that transcends partisan politics. They said the event should alert every American to what they described as an erosion of principles such as accountability, lawful conduct and respect for civil liberties in federal law-enforcement operations.
In their comments, the former president and first lady criticised the tactics of ICE and other Department of Homeland Security components involved in enforcement operations in Minneapolis, saying such actions appear to intimidate, harass and endanger residents rather than uphold public safety in cooperation with local authorities. They urged broader reflection and action from the public and officials alike to protect fundamental American values.
The statement came amid intense national debate in the U.S. about federal law-enforcement practices and executive branch oversight following several high-profile incidents this month. Bipartisan calls for investigations and accountability have emerged alongside peaceful protests and legislative discussions on immigration enforcement policies and civil rights protections.
Trump administration officials have defended the agents’ actions as part of lawful immigration enforcement, while critics including the Obamas and other political leaders argue that the response highlights broader concerns about federal force and constitutional rights.
