The New Yorker Radio Hour The City of Minneapolis vs. Donald Trump
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Jan 30, 2026 Ruby Cramer, a New Yorker staff writer who interviewed city leaders, and Emily Witt, a New Yorker reporter on-the-ground in Minneapolis, discuss a heavy federal presence in the city. They trace political motives behind deployments. They describe local responses, volunteer spotters, detentions and interrogations, and strained city–federal relations.
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Investigations Stalled By Limited Access
- Investigations into killings of Renee Good and Alex Preddy were hindered by restricted access to evidence.
- Local authorities fear evidence was withheld or tampered with, preventing thorough inquiries.
Perceived Immunity Intensifies Conflict
- Federal agents acted as if they had near-impunity, heightening tensions on the ground.
- Witt says agent behavior suggested they believed they had 'absolute immunity,' fueling confrontations.
Local Police Criticize Federal Tactics
- Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara publicly criticized federal tactics and highlighted chaotic operations.
- He detailed movements that looked unsafe and undisciplined compared with trained de-escalation protocols.