Numerous Minnesota CEOs have joined together to send a message: the federal government must deescalate its actions via ICE in Minnesota.
ICE agents fatally shot Alex Jeffrey Pretti, an intensive care unit nurse, on Saturday, prompting the letter.
Rep. Ilhan Omar issued a statement after the shooting of Pretti by federal officers in Minnesota, saying she was “absolutely heartbroken, horrified and appalled that federal agents murdered another member of our community. It is beyond shameful these federal agents are targeting our residents instead of protecting them.”
As for the business community, over 60 issued the joint statement, quoted in full, on the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce website.
“The business community in Minnesota prides itself in providing leadership and solving problems to ensure a strong and vibrant state,” the statement said. “The recent challenges facing our state have created widespread disruption and tragic loss of life.
“For the past several weeks, representatives of Minnesota’s business community have been working every day behind the scenes with federal, state and local officials to advance real solutions. These efforts have included close communication with the Governor, the White House, the Vice President and local mayors. There are ways for us to come together to foster progress.
“With yesterday’s tragic news, we are calling for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and for state, local and federal officials to work together to find real solutions.
“We have been working for generations to build a strong and vibrant state here in Minnesota and will do so in the months and years ahead with equal and even greater commitment. In this difficult moment for our community, we call for peace and focused cooperation among local, state and federal leaders to achieve a swift and durable solution that enables families, businesses, our employees, and communities across Minnesota to resume our work to build a bright and prosperous future.”
The full list of signatories is on the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce website, and includes CEOs from 3M, Best Buy, Mayo Clinic and more.
