California Governor Gavin Newsom sharply accused President Donald Trump and the Department of Homeland Security of trying to incite a civil war and promote “white supremacy” by enforcing federal immigration laws in Democrat‑run Minnesota. Speaking to reporters, Newsom said the federal response in Minneapolis is “a disgrace” and warned that escalating tensions should not become normalized in American politics.
Newsom, who is already positioning himself for a 2028 presidential run, did not explain how enforcing existing border and immigration laws equates to encouraging white supremacy. His comments come as Democratic leaders and progressive activists increase their rhetoric against federal enforcement actions in liberal states like Minnesota, California, and Illinois, particularly over the handling of border crossings, immigration detention, and local cooperation with federal agencies. Critics argue that these actions are heavy‑handed and unfair, while supporters of enforcement say they are simply upholding the rule of law.
In Minnesota, Department of Homeland Security chief Kristi Noem suggested that Gov. Tim Walz may have known about and potentially been complicit in problems tied to migration and local administration, a claim that has fueled partisan backlash. In Illinois, Governor J.B. Pritzker echoed criticism by agreeing with a reporter’s characterization of Trump’s actions as an “invasion” of states, signaling how deeply divided statewide leaders are on the issue.
Nationally, progressive lawmakers have also amplified their objections. Representatives Ilhan Omar of Minnesota and Pramila Jayapal of Washington led a Democratic‑hosted hearing titled “Kidnapped and Disappeared: Trump’s Deadly Assault on Minnesota.” Omar described federal officers as a “paramilitary force operating outside the bounds of law,” while Jayapal warned that erosion of rights in one place could spread nationwide.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey echoed similar themes at the hearing, asserting that federal actions are creating chaos on city streets rather than enhancing safety. He described scenes of vehicles left running after detentions, children endangered by gas exposure, and unattended pets, arguing that these outcomes do not make Minneapolis safer.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison also denounced Trump’s enforcement efforts, calling them “unjustified, unconstitutional,” and an infringement on the state’s sovereignty. The heated comments from Democratic leaders reflect broader national debates over immigration, federal authority, and how best to balance enforcement with community concerns.
As election politics intensify ahead of 2026 and 2028 races, immigration enforcement and federal‑state tensions have emerged as flashpoints, with both sides using sharply contrasting language to galvanize their supporters.
