FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 27, 2026
Statement from Austin Ayers on the Tragic Shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis
It has been nearly 72 hours since the heartbreaking shooting of Alex Pretti, a dedicated registered nurse who cared for our nation’s veterans at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Medical Center. After this tragic incident, I have carefully reviewed all available footage, witness accounts, and related materials. This event has sparked intense public debate, deep divisions, and, unfortunately, a wave of threats, including credible calls for violence against me due to my initial comments on the matter.
First and foremost, let me reaffirm my position: I strongly support enforcing our immigration laws, including the deportation of individuals who are here illegally, especially those with criminal records, gang ties, or links to terrorist organizations. Securing our borders and upholding the law remains a top priority.
At the same time, it is unacceptable that ICE and CBP agents and their families have endured nearly a year of doxxing, threatening letters sent to their homes, and explicit death threats from extremist groups. These public servants often wear masks not out of malice but to protect their identities and loved ones from threats by those who seek to undermine lawful enforcement and sometimes shield dangerous individuals, including pedophiles, violent criminals, gang members, and abusers, from consequences.
After a thorough examination of the evidence, including video and reports from the scene, I am retracting my earlier statement that characterized Mr. Pretti as a domestic terrorist. The facts do not support this claim. Mr. Pretti was a law-abiding American citizen and a respected healthcare professional who dedicated his career to our veterans, and he had a valid concealed carry permit under Minnesota law.
While I do not condone any interference with federal officers performing their duties, I believe the response by ICE and CBP agents was excessive in this case. Video evidence shows Mr. Pretti lawfully carrying his firearm but never drawing or brandishing it. Contrary to initial reports, he did not actively resist as originally described. His hands were clasped together, and he faced significant physical force, including being taken to the ground and struck multiple times on the head.
No American should lose their life for lawfully exercising their Second Amendment rights at a public gathering. No one should be shot for briefly obstructing or questioning federal agents during a tense encounter. I extend my deepest sympathies to Mr. Pretti’s family, friends, colleagues, and the veteran community he served so selflessly. Their grief and anger are understandable.
Finally, I do not agree with President Trump’s remarks regarding that “guns are bad”, or “only bad people carry guns”. This goes against what we, as Republicans, believe in. I hope that President Trump and other elected officials choose their words more wisely.
In light of these events, and to prevent further escalation or loss of life, I call for the following steps:
- Immediate suspension of routine ICE and CBP enforcement operations in the continental United States to redirect resources toward border security and the removal of individuals with final deportation orders.
- Mandatory mutual aid agreements requiring the presence of local, county, or state law enforcement during any interior enforcement actions that may involve civilian interactions or protests to ensure de-escalation, transparency, and public safety.
- Strict limitation of ICE and CBP activities to immigration-specific enforcement, focusing exclusively on individuals confirmed to be unlawfully present with active removal orders, rather than broader criminal enforcement, which should be handled by appropriate federal or local authorities.
We must find a balance: enforcing immigration laws to protect our communities while ensuring the rights and safety of all Americans, including our federal agents and ordinary citizens. Reckless rhetoric and overreach help no one.
My thoughts and prayers remain with the Pretti family during this unimaginable time, as well as with the brave men and women of ICE and CBP who risk their lives daily to keep our nation secure.
Thank you,
Austin Ayers (R-NC)
Former Candidate, United States House of Representatives
North Carolina’s 3rd Congressional District
