MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (WTVO) — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is facing backlash after posting a “How to” graphic on avoiding Immigration and Customs Enforcement after a man was fatally shot by Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis.
In a post on X, Hegseth posted a graphic that read, “1. Don’t be here illegally. 2. Don’t attack ICE officers. 3. Obey federal and state laws.”
The post praised federal immigration officers and sharply criticized Minnesota leadership and protesters surrounding the death of Alex Pretti, 37, who was shot while federal officers tried to take him into custody.
Authorities say Pretti approached officers while armed during the encounter, which remains under investigation.
Hegseth framed the enforcement action as part of a broader effort to maintain public safety and border security.
The post quickly circulated online, generating strong reactions across the political spectrum. Supporters praised Hegseth for publicly backing federal law enforcement, while critics argued the rhetoric escalated tensions during an already sensitive situation following a fatal shooting.
Civil rights advocates and some Minnesota officials criticized the message as inflammatory, saying it risked undermining public trust while investigations into the shooting were still ongoing. Protest activity in Minneapolis has continued since the incident, with demonstrators calling for transparency and accountability.
The Department of Homeland Security has said agents were conducting a targeted operation related to a violent assault case and that officers responded after being confronted with a firearm. Federal authorities have not released body camera footage, and the incident remains under review.
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