Trump's DOJ launches major investigation into Tim Walz and Minneapolis mayor
Donald Trump looks on as Attorney General Pam Bondi speaks. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst
January 16, 2026
President Donald Trump's Justice Department is reportedly investigating Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, according to reports.
CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins and CBS News both reported the revelation.
CBS News reported that the Trump administration is accusing the Democratic leaders of conspiring to obstruct federal immigration agents.
The bombshell inquiry marks a dramatic escalation in tensions between the Trump administration and Minnesota officials over the massive immigration crackdown sweeping the Twin Cities. Nearly 3,000 ICE and Border Patrol agents have descended on the region in what the Department of Homeland Security called its largest operation ever.
Federal investigators are examining public statements Walz and Frey made criticizing the deployment, with prosecutors eyeing a federal conspiracy statute that criminalizes efforts to impede federal officers through "force, intimidation or threats," CBS News said.
The backlash intensified after ICE killed Minnesota mom Renee Good last week, sparking protests and clashes across Minneapolis.
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche appeared to reference the probe, posting on X, "Walz and Frey- I'm focused on stopping YOU from your terrorism by whatever means necessary. This is not a threat. It's a promise."
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem charged the officials on Thursday with "encouraging impeding and assault against our law enforcement which is a federal crime, a felony."