Tensions in the United States have reached a boiling point this weekend as a standoff between federal forces and local residents in Minnesota threatens to spiral into a constitutional crisis. President Donald Trump has officially threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act to quell ongoing protests in Minneapolis, a move that would deploy active-duty military troops on American soil.
The unrest, now entering its second week, was sparked by the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother and U.S. citizen, by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent during a traffic stop.
The Flashpoint: "Operation Metro Surge"
The conflict began earlier this month with the launch of "Operation Metro Surge," a massive federal crackdown that deployed approximately 2,000 to 3,000 federal agents to the Twin Cities. The operation took a deadly turn on January 7, when an ICE agent shot and killed Renee Good.
While federal authorities claim the agent acted in self-defense, video footage and eyewitness accounts have fueled widespread outrage, leading to daily demonstrations. Protesters report using snowballs and water balloons against agents who have responded with tear gas and pepper balls.
Trump’s Ultimatum: The Insurrection Act
In a move that has stunned legal experts, President Trump took to Truth Social on Thursday, January 15, issuing a direct ultimatum to Minnesota officials. He warned that if "corrupt politicians" (referring to Governor Tim Walz and Mayor Jacob Frey) do not "obey the law" and stop the protests, he will invoke the Insurrection Act of 1807.
This rarely used law grants the President the power to deploy the U.S. military domestically to suppress rebellion, bypassing state governors. Governor Walz has already mobilized the Minnesota National Guard to "keep the peace," but the threat of federal troops has only deepened the divide.
A "Gestapo" Moment? Joe Rogan Speaks Out
The crackdown has drawn criticism from unexpected corners, signaling a shift in the cultural conversation. Joe Rogan, the influential podcaster who previously endorsed Donald Trump, publicly questioned the heavy-handed tactics used by federal agents.
In a recent episode with Senator Rand Paul, Rogan compared the masked federal agents to a dark chapter in history, asking:
"Are we really going to be the Gestapo? 'Where's your papers?' Is that what we've come to?"
Rogan’s comments highlight a growing unease among libertarians and conservatives regarding the militarization of immigration enforcement, suggesting that the administration's actions may be alienating key parts of its base.
What Happens Next?
As of today, January 18, the situation remains volatile:
Legal Battles: Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison has sued the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and a federal judge has issued an injunction restricting ICE from arresting peaceful protesters.
National Guard: State troops are on standby to support local police, but the arrival of federal military forces could trigger a massive escalation.
Public Sentiment: With "Operation Metro Surge" showing no signs of slowing down, Minneapolis remains ground zero for the nation's debate on civil liberties and executive power.