Congressman Mackenzie Issues Statement on Violence in Minnesota

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07), representing the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, has issued the following statement in response to events in Minnesota. 

“The news this weekend out of Minnesota is tragic and our thoughts are with the friends and family of Mr. Pretti,” said Congressman Mackenzie. “The American people don’t want violence to be a side effect of controlling our borders, especially when the central aim has been to remove criminals from our country. During moments like these, it’s essential that we await the facts and engage in appropriate dialogue. As I have previously called for in the case of Renee Good, it’s important that a full and fair investigation is conducted of the shooting of Mr. Pretti.

“Moving forward, oversight and cooperation need to be emphasized. Last week, the House passed an appropriations bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security which includes new oversight tools for lawmakers and independent officials. These include $20 million for body cameras, requirements for de-escalation training, and additional funding for the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of the Inspector General. The House Homeland Security Committee, on which I serve, has also announced an oversight hearing and reiterated its request for testimony from ICE, DHS, and USCIS. 

“At the same time, we cannot allow a lack of cooperation from local officials to prevent criminals from being detained and deported. For weeks, officials in Minneapolis and even here in our own community have fanned the flames of division and disrespect for law enforcement. This has resulted in a well-coordinated effort to interfere with federal law enforcement operations, including those targeting criminals. Those who are convicted or charged with a crime constitute 70% of ICE arrests and nearly 80% of deportations. These efforts by local leaders to prevent any enforcement of immigration law only add to the untenable situation in Minnesota. 

“From my position on the Homeland Security Committee, I will continue to prioritize accountability, common sense, and the rule of law.”

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