Deadline: White House "Why local leaders are not letting up"
Feb 5, 2026
Andrew Weissmann, former top DOJ official known for leading high-profile federal investigations, offers legal perspective on the Minnesota federal agent drawdown. Conversation covers shocking footage of agents drawing guns, militarized ICE tactics, Fourth Amendment concerns, trauma to children and communities, and legal and congressional tools to constrain enforcement practices.
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Drawdown Feels Superficial
- Federal drawdown claims mask continued heavy presence: 2,000 agents remain in Minneapolis after a 700-person reduction.
- Jacob Soboroff reports residents call the announcement a "crumb" that won't reduce fear in communities.
Observers Filmed Agents Pointing Guns
- Observers recorded ICE agents drawing guns on people filming enforcement activity.
- Video shows agents shouting, pointing handguns, and ordering people back during operations.
DHS Units Using Military Tactics
- Wired reports federal units operate like overseas special forces with explosives and tactical gear.
- ICE guidance reportedly allowed operations without judicial warrants for home entries.