U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked controversy after saying Alex Pretti, killed by federal agents in Minneapolis, should not have been carrying a gun.
His remarks have drawn criticism from prominent gun rights organizations and raised questions within Republican ranks.
Speaking to reporters at an Iowa restaurant, Trump addressed the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, who was killed on Saturday during a federal immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis.
“I haven’t heard that he’s a domestic terrorist, but certainly shouldn’t have been carrying a gun,” Trump said. He added that Pretti had “two fully loaded magazines,” calling the incident “very unfortunate.”
The president made the remarks before greeting supporters and delivering a scheduled speech on the economy.
Background: The Minnesota shooting
Pretti, a licensed concealed-carry holder, was shot by federal agents amid an immigration enforcement action. Bystander videos shared widely online appear to show Pretti never touched his weapon before he was shot.
The incident prompted criticism of federal authorities and led to a White House-ordered leadership shakeup.
Trump’s comments conflicted with statements from major gun rights organizations.
Luis Valdes, spokesperson for Gun Owners of America, said: “You absolutely can walk around with a gun, and you absolutely can peacefully protest while armed. It’s an American historical tradition dating back to the Boston Tea Party.”
The National Rifle Association (NRA) echoed the concern, posting on X: “The NRA unequivocally believes that all law-abiding citizens have a right to keep and bear arms anywhere they have a legal right to be.”
These groups noted that Pretti was legally carrying his firearm and expressed displeasure over the president’s remarks.
Gun rights advocates are a key Republican voting bloc, and Trump’s statements have created friction ahead of the November midterm elections. Analysts say the comments could further divide opinion among party members and supporters.
Trump also noted that his border czar, Tom Homan, had met with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and was expected to meet Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, signaling continued federal attention to the incident.
