First Lady Melania Trump made a rare political statement on Monday, calling for "unity" and peaceful protests amid the violence that has gripped the city of Minneapolis. In a television appearance on "Fox & Friends," she stressed: " I am against violence. So, please, if you are protesting, do it peacefully ."
Her statement comes at a time when tensions in the city have risen sharply following the killing of a 37-year-old named Alex Pretty, an intensive care nurse, who was shot dead by federal agents during an immigration enforcement operation.
The incident sparked violent protests on the streets of Minneapolis and beyond, bringing back memories of previous racial and institutional crises in the U.S. Footage of the incident has sparked strong reactions, dividing public opinion and raising questions about the use of force by federal agents.
Amid this widening crisis, President Donald Trump has intervened directly, replacing Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem with former immigration director Tom Homan. In a post on the Truth Social network, Trump declared: “ I am sending Tom Homan to Minnesota tonight. He is tough but fair and will report only to me .”
The move comes after Trump himself reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with Noem and her aides' handling of the crisis during an emergency meeting at the White House. Meanwhile, Noem has reacted sharply, labeling victim Alex Pretty a "domestic terrorist," a statement that has sparked a backlash in the media and the health community.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey have confirmed their contacts with the president, saying they are working to avoid escalating the situation. However, civic organizations and community leaders are demanding a full investigation and transparency into the killings, as more than one incident involving victims has been captured on video in recent weeks.
With the situation remaining tense, the coming days are expected to be crucial in how the White House will manage this wave of anger that is not just about an incident, but about a deep wound in American society.
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