Top U.S. Border Patrol Commander Set to Exit Minnesota Following Deadly ICE Shootings
U.S. Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino, a prominent figure in President Donald Trump's nationwide immigration enforcement strategy, is reportedly preparing to leave his post in Minneapolis. This development comes in the aftermath of two fatal shootings involving federal immigration agents that have sparked significant controversy and public outcry across the state of Minnesota.
Departure Follows Deadly Incidents Involving Federal Agents
Multiple news organizations, including the Associated Press, have cited anonymous sources indicating that Commander Bovino will be departing the Twin Cities region. This move follows the tragic deaths of two Minneapolis residents during protests against the deployment of thousands of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents throughout the city.
The first victim, Renee Good, was fatally shot by an ICE agent on January 7, 2026, as she attempted to drive her SUV after being ordered out of the vehicle by another federal officer. The second incident occurred on January 25, 2026, when 37-year-old intensive care unit nurse Alex Pretti was killed during escalating tensions over the federal immigration presence in Minnesota.
White House Maintains Support for Commander Bovino
Despite reports of his impending departure, Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin has publicly stated that Commander Bovino has not been sidelined by the White House administration. In an official statement, McLaughlin emphasized that "Chief Gregory Bovino has NOT been relieved of his duties" and described him as "a key part of the President's team and a great American."
The announcement of Bovino's potential exit coincides with President Trump's decision to send border czar Tom Homan to Minnesota to oversee immigration enforcement operations in the region. This strategic move suggests a potential shift in leadership approach while maintaining the administration's commitment to immigration control measures.
Minnesota Officials Push Back Against Federal Immigration Operations
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey have both expressed strong opposition to the current immigration crackdown in their state. Both leaders have demanded the removal of approximately 3,000 ICE agents deployed to the Minneapolis area as part of Operation Metro Surge.
In recent developments, President Trump has engaged in separate phone conversations with both Governor Walz and Mayor Frey. Following these discussions, Trump posted on Truth Social that his conversation with Walz was productive, noting that they "seemed to be on a similar wavelength" regarding the situation.
Mayor Frey reported that his discussion with the president was cooperative in nature, with Trump agreeing that "the present situation can't continue." Frey added that some federal agents would begin leaving the area immediately, while he would continue advocating for the complete withdrawal of all personnel involved in the controversial operation.
White House Defends Agents' Actions in Fatal Shootings
White House officials have consistently defended the actions of federal agents in both fatal shootings, maintaining that their responses were justified under the circumstances. This position has created additional tension between federal authorities and local Minnesota communities who have expressed growing concerns about the methods employed during immigration enforcement operations.
The situation in Minnesota continues to evolve as federal and state officials navigate the complex intersection of immigration policy, law enforcement procedures, and community relations. The potential departure of Commander Bovino represents a significant development in this ongoing national conversation about immigration enforcement strategies and their impact on local communities across the United States.
