Tag: Minnesota Politics

Over a dozen cases dropped against Minnesota protesters accused of assaulting federal agents during ICE operation

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United States Federal Courthouse illuminated with stormy clouds overhead

Federal prosecutors are continuing to dismiss charges initially brought against people in Minnesota for allegedly assaulting federal officers during the winter.  WCCO dug through court filings and identified at least 18 people whose cases are now dropped. A federal judge officially dismissed the charges for 15 of them; three are pending a judge’s approval after prosecutors filed motions to dismiss the charges. At least 17 cases are still pending, with judges denying defense dismissal motions in several of them.  Richard Painter, a legal expert with the University of Minnesota and former chief White House ethics lawyer for President George W. Bush, said that it’s clear to him that federal prosecutors brought several cases forward without sufficient evidence. 

“It appears that the United States Attorney’s Office in Minnesota is bringing some weak cases against protestors,” Painter said, adding that he believes that there was pressure from the Trump administration to charge people.  According to court records, defense and government attorneys alike asked for case dismissals for a variety of reasons.  Juan Carlos Rodriguez Romero was accused in December of ramming into ICE vehicles in St. Paul, prompting an ICE agent to fire his weapon, hitting no one. On June 8, United States Attorney Daniel Rosen signed off on a dismissal motion based in part because prosecutors “thoroughly reassessed the evidence” and concluded that they were not confident that they could obtain and sustain a conviction against Rodriguez Romero.  In January, ICE leadership acknowledged that ICE agent Christian Castro may have lied under oath about what happened the night he shot Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis in north Minneapolis.

This led to the assault charges against Sosa-Celis and another man being dropped; Castro is now facing charges in Hennepin County for the shooting and for falsely reporting a crime. Just a week after that incident, federal officers said Paul Johnson violently resisted arrest in north Minneapolis. On Thursday, Rosen signed a motion to dismiss the charges against Johnson. The U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota acknowledged issues raised by Johnson and his legal team, including allegations that agents shackled him to a bed at HCMC without access to his phone for days.  “Based on newly received discovery, the government intends to pursue an investigation into allegations raised in Mr. Johnson’s filings; therefore the interests of justice support dismissal of this case,” Rosen’s motion reads in Johnson’s case.  In the more than 30 cases WCCO reviewed, one name appeared across a variety of different cases.

HSI Special Agent Richard Berger submitted sworn affidavits prompting probable cause for the arrest of Johnson and nine others, whose charges were ultimately dismissed. Berger submitted affidavits in at least 12 cases that are still ongoing.  In a hearing in Gillian Etherington’s case in April, which is still ongoing, U.S. District Court Magistrate David Schultz said that he became “concerned with the veracity” of multiple affidavits related to federal officer assault cases that came from Berger. Schultz said that in multiple instances, Berger “did not have any personal knowledge of the events described in the affidavits that he has submitted to this court as sworn affidavits.” A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security ignored questions from WCCO about whether there has been an internal review of incident reports or legal filings.

The spokesperson instead provided a statement describing Johnson, who prosecutors are dropping the federal case against, as an “anti-ICE rioter.”  U.S. prosecutors in Minnesota on Tuesday announced charges against 15 people they say conspired to “violently oppose immigration law enforcement,” though Rosen failed to describe a single example of injuries to federal agents when repeatedly questioned. When asked what makes the latest slate of indictments different than other cases that have been dropped, Rosen said he doesn’t think any cases have “failed in any way.”

Source: Over a dozen cases dropped against Minnesota protesters accused of assaulting federal agents during ICE operation – CBS Minnesota

But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you.
Luke 6:27-28

ICE Deports MS-13 Member With Cartel Ties

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has deported a self-admitted MS-13 gang member with ties to Mexico’s Cartel del Noreste after he completed a prison sentence in Texas, Newsmax learned exclusively…

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Gov Walz Pardons Convicted Illegal Aliens Blocking Deportation in Minnesota

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Man in suit standing at podium with state seal and people in background

On Wednesday, Democrat Minnesota Governor Tim Walz pardoned a criminal illegal alien convicted of armed robbery – preventing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from being able to use the conviction as grounds for deportation. Jai Vang, an illegal alien from Laos, who was convicted of aiding and abetting and armed robbery in Hennepin County in 1994, was taken into ICE custody in January during its Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota. Walz falsely called illegal alien Vang a “citizen” in remarks Wednesday during a ceremony where the governor announced and signed the pardon:

“I do not see how it would serve his family, nor the economic interest where we have a taxpaying citizen who is creating job growth and living a life free from any criminal activity.”

Walz claimed that Vang has been a “critical member of the community” since his release from prison, adding that he can find “no reason how Minnesota will be safer or better if Mr. Vang is deported.” Vang’s pardon is just one of Gov. Walz’s rabid efforts to thwart federal enforcement of the nation’s immigration laws. During Operation Metro Surge, for example, he publicly vilified ICE agents, smearing them as “Modern-day Gestapo.”

On May 4, Gov. Walz pardoned another criminal illegal alien from Laos who was convicted of two counts of assault – thus, removing the criminal convictions that made the illegal alien lose his green card and removable from the U.S. Two days later, the U.S. Department of Homeland responded with a statement titled “MINNESOTA MADNESS: Minnesota Board of Pardons Unanimously Pardons Criminal Illegal Alien Convicted of Two Counts of Assault,” exposing how Walz’s pardon eliminated the grounds for deporting a violent thug: “On May 4, 2026, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and the state Board of Pardons granted an emergency pardon to At “Ricky” Xayasounethone Chandee to prevent his imminent deportation to Laos.

“Xayasounethone Chandee, an illegal alien from Laos, was convicted of two counts of assault in 1993. An Immigration Judge issued Chandee a final order of removal in 1995.  “Now, the Minnesota Board of Pardons’ decision could thwart his removal from the United States.

‘The Minnesota Board of Pardons’ unanimous decision pardoning an illegal alien convicted of two counts of assault is absolute INSANITY,” said Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis.

 “Chandee lost his green card following his convictions for assault. Following his criminal convictions, he was placed in removal proceedings and issued a final order of removal by a judge. Minnesota’s sanctuary politicians’ pardon took away this violent thug’s qualifying convictions that made him removable from the U.S.’”

Source: Gov Walz Pardons Convicted Illegal Aliens Blocking Deportation in Minnesota

For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you.
Philippians 1:23-24

Costly Sacrifice: The Heart of Worship

What the world calls waste, Jesus calls worship, your sacrifice for Him is never overlooked. Bold, extravagant faith stands out in a culture that misunderstands true devotion.  “She has done…

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States That Allow Bible in the Classroom

Texas public schools will now require students to read Bible passages and stories as part of the latest conservative push to expand the role of religion in public education—a move bound to escalate wrangling over…

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Ex-Minnesota state trooper reveals how state ‘tried to cover up fraud allegations’ ; then Walz shut down his department

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Minnesota Governor in navy suit with arms crossed at podium during press conference

A former Minnesota state trooper alleged this week that his bosses at the state Department of Human Services tried to bully him into quashing his findings of fraud in the state’s child care funding program. Jay Swanson, a former criminal investigator for the DHS, also revealed that it was well known among Somali refugees in East Africa that Minnesota was the best place to go in the US to pull off child care fraud schemes. And then, Gov. Tim Walz came into office — and Swanson’s entire department investigating waste, fraud and abuse was eliminated, according to Republican lawmakers.

Source: Ex-Minnesota state trooper reveals how state ‘tried to cover up fraud allegations’ — then Walz shut down his department

Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
Romans 3:20

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Minnesota Dad self proclaims and thinks he’s the ‘voice of this generation’ of anti-ICE protesters then attacks a Turning Point USA journalist

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Man grabbing woman on city sidewalk with concerned expression

This is radicalization at its finest. Just months before he was arrested for violently shoving a Turning Point USA reporter at an anti-ICE protest, Minnesota dad Chris Ostroushko spent his days like any stereotypical white, middle-aged American man: working in construction and watching football from his couch. Ostroushko had never thought to participate in any protests in his 50-something years — until out-of-control protesters and ICE agents clashed during a deadly demonstration in North Minneapolis on Jan. 14. 

Source: Minnesota dad became ‘voice of this generation’ of anti-ICE protesters — then attacked a Turning Point USA journo

For You are my rock and my fortress; Therefore, for Your name’s sake, Lead me and guide me.
Psalm 31:3

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FBI raids nearly two dozen Minnesota child care centers in fraud probe, including ‘Quality Learing Center’

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FBI agents in tactical gear entering childcare building behind police tape

The FBI raided 22 childcare centers in Minnesota Tuesday morning as part of a wide-ranging investigation of social services fraud. Unlike this past winter’s Operation Metro Surge, the raids were not focused on immigration enforcement, but reportedly on prominent businesses tied to the Somali-American community. “Today the FBI with federal, state and local law enforcement is involved in court-authorized law enforcement activity as part of an ongoing fraud investigation,” a Justice Department official told The Post.

The targets included the Quality Learning Center — a Minneapolis day care that infamously misspelled the word “Learning” in its signage. President Trump announced a “war on fraud” in his February State of the Union address and put Vice President JD Vance in charge of a task force leading the effort.

Source: FBI raids nearly two dozen Minnesota child care centers in fraud probe, including ‘Quality Learing Center’

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.
Galatians 6:7

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Republican Tyler Kistner drops out of 2nd Congressional District race in Minnesota, to serve in other areas

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soldier doing camouflage on face

Republican Tyler Kistner has announced he is dropping out of the 2026 race for Minnesota’s 2nd Congressional District seat. Explaining the move in a written statement on Wednesday, the veteran said that he is being activated from the Marine Reserves to deploy to the Middle East.  “Recently, it’s become clear that my service to this great country is needed more in other areas,” Kistner said. “My work at the Pentagon has demanded more of my time over the last six months than I initially anticipated.”

Kistner ran for the seat in 2022 and 2024, losing both times to incumbent Democrat Angie Craig, who is making a run for U.S. Senate in the November midterm elections. Democrats vying for the seat include state Rep. Kaela Berg, former state Sen. Matt Little and current state Sen. Matt Klein. On the Republican side, state Sen. Eric Pratt is running. The 2nd Congressional District includes the major south metro suburbs of Lakeville, Eagan and Burnsville, as well as farmland. Craig has represented the district for the past six years. Before her, Republicans held the district for 19 years. And before that, Democrats had it for eight years.  

Source: Republican Tyler Kistner drops out of 2nd Congressional District race in Minnesota – CBS Minnesota

Seek good and not evil, That you may live; So the LORD God of hosts will be with you, As you have spoken.
Amos 5:14

How Long Before Your Old Car is Illegal to Drive? Minnesota Bill Would Add Weekday Use Restrictions to Classic Car Rules

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vibrant classic car show under the sun

California is not the only state reconsidering its classic car legislation as of late. Minnesota legislators are currently overhauling the state’s heritage vehicle rules, and it appears that some specific restrictions on when and where classic cars can be operated are under consideration. Officially known as HF 3865, the Minnesota State Legislature bill first brought to broader attention by CBT News captures a broad swath of rules and regulations for owning, registering, and operating classic cars in the North Star State. Minnesota uses a variety of license plate designations—pioneer plate, classic car plate, street rod plate, and collector plate—to categorize the year range and use case for vintage vehicles, but the most notable change in this overhauled bill focuses on use cases for all retro rides.

Source: Minnesota Bill Would Add Weekday Use Restrictions to Classic Car Rules

Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy.
1 Timothy 6:17

Trump administration sues Minnesota for allowing trans athletes in girls’ sports

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woman in blue and white basketball jersey holding brown basketball

The US Department of Justice sued Minnesota’s education department and the state’s school athletics body on Monday for allowing transgender athletes to compete in girls’ sports. In a lawsuit, the justice department claims that by making female student athletes compete against transgender girls, as well as share locker rooms and bathrooms with them, Minnesota is violating Title IX – the federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination for any programs that receive federal funding. “Minnesota’s policies and practices create unfair competition, deny girls equal educational opportunities, and expose girls to a hostile educational environment with heightened risks of physical injury and psychological harm,” the justice department argues in the suit filed on Monday. Minnesota has fought against the Trump administration’s efforts to remove transgender athletes from girls’ sports.

Source: Trump administration sues Minnesota for allowing trans athletes in girls’ sports | Trump administration | The Guardian

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age.
Titus 2:11-12

Angie Craig walks back support for Laken Riley Act as immigration remains hot issue in race for U.S. Senate

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crime scene do not cross signage

There are only two months until the DFL party’s nominating convention in Rochester, Minnesota. One of the most heated DFL races is for U.S. Senate, where two successful elected officials, Rep. Angie Craig and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, are running against each other for the seat. One of the most heated issues remains immigration, where Craig has walked back her support for the Laken Riley Act. Craig was one of 46 House Democrats who voted for the Laken Riley Act in January 2025. The act was passed in the aftermath of the murder of Laken Riley, a Georgia nursing student. The act mandates that undocumented workers be held in custody for theft-related crimes pending any criminal proceedings, even when there has not been a conviction. 

Source: Angie Craig walks back support for Laken Riley Act as immigration remains hot issue in race for U.S. Senate – CBS Minnesota

Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.”
Luke 9:23

Judge dismisses DOJ lawsuit over Minnesota in-state tuition for students without legal status, leaving US Citizens to Foot the Bill

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judge signing on the papers

Minnesota public universities can continue to offer in-state tuition and scholarships to some immigrants in the country without legal status, a federal judge ruled on Friday, dismissing a lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice last summer that attempted to halt the programs. The decision follows a series of clashes between the federal government and Minnesota officials over immigration enforcement. United States District Judge Katherine Menendez said in her decision that the federal government failed to prove that programs offering in-state tuition for immigrants without legal status discriminated against U.S. citizens.

Source: Judge dismisses DOJ lawsuit over Minnesota in-state tuition for students without legal status – CBS Minnesota

For if there is first a willing mind, it is accepted according to what one has, and not according to what he does not have.
2 Corinthians 8:12