Trump Wanted Minneapolis 15 Case to Be Another Prairieland. Instead, Twin Cities Rallied Behind Anti-ICE Activists.
The mainstream of Minnesota’s left-of-center politics — including unions, the backbone of Democratic power — are behind the radical left. The post Trump Wanted Minneapolis 15 Case to Be Another Prairieland. Instead, Twin Cities Rallied Behind Anti-ICE Activists. appeared first on The Intercept .
The Trump administration indicted 15 anti-ICE activists in Minneapolis, labeling them radicals, after claiming they tormented federal agents. Homeland Security Investigations chief Michael McCarthy claimed the distinction between peaceful protests and rioting was clear, asserting unlawful activity would not be tolerated. However, a federal judge had previously halted ICE's pepper-spraying and arresting of peaceful protesters during Operation Metro Surge.
Critics argue the indictment was crafted from what would be misdemeanor charges. McCarthy's agents infiltrated groups promoting nonviolence, including labor unions and nonprofits, and sought financiers for "domestic terrorism" by subpoenaing individuals. While critics say the case has united the left, the Trump administration has had mixed success in prosecuting left-wing protesters, with the Minneapolis case proving particularly challenging.
In contrast, mainstream groups have shied away from supporting the defendants, many of whom are self-described anarchists. Despite this, labor unions and progressive sectors have rallied behind the "Minneapolis 15" and raised funds for them. The defendants have maintained a unified defense, refusing plea deals. The case has highlighted divisions within the left and the federal government's efforts to demonize activists.
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