Stuart Condemns Violence of Federal Immigration Agents, Demands Defense of Constitutional Rights

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EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – State Rep. Katie Stuart, D-Edwardsville, has issued the following statement in response to the violent acts of ICE Border Patrol agents in Minnesota, leading to the death of another American citizen.

“I am horrified by the illegal actions of federal immigration enforcement agencies across the country, and most recently in Minnesota. I support the Twin Cities and all of Minnesota as they protest against federal agents who are instilling fear and hopelessness in their communities.

“This weekend, Alex Pretti was executed by Border Patrol agents. Three weeks ago, Renee Good was executed by ICE agents. Both were beloved community members and American citizens. Just this month, federal immigration officers are responsible for nine deaths; if this rate continues, federal immigration enforcement is on track to be responsible for the killings of over 100 people in 2026. This is morally and Constitutionally wrong. 

“At my core, I believe in the Constitutional rights afforded to everyone on American soil, and these rights are being threatened by federal immigration agents. Acting as judge, jury, and executioner impedes our rights to due process. Terrorizing, detaining, arresting, and killing protesters impedes our rights to freedom of speech and protest. Blaming a victim for legally carrying a weapon, which was at no point brandished, violates the right to bear arms. This is simply wrong and unjust, and federal officials are only making Americans more afraid in the face of tragedy.

“Harmful rhetoric is right here in our community, too. Last week, Madison County Republicans voted against a ‘Day of Unity’ in honor of Renee Good. We should be coming together to mourn the murder of a fellow American, not voting along party lines to create more division and polarization. On the other hand, everyone from Congressman Darin LaHood to gun rights lobbyists are calling for a full investigation into Pretti’s murder because they know our fundamental rights are under attack.

“I unequivocally denounce the terror being caused by federal immigration agents across the country, and specifically in Minnesota, who are detaining, violating and, at worst, killing American citizens. I stand with the hundreds of thousands of people who spent their weekend protesting despite a massive winter storm. I have and will continue to support legislation that seeks unity and empathy, and accountability for those responsible for the mistreatment of American citizens.”