Chris Madel, a Republican candidate for Minnesota governor, has abruptly ended his campaign, condemning recent immigration enforcement actions in the state as exceeding their intended scope. In a video posted to X, Madel stated he cannot support “the national Republicans’ stated retribution on the citizens of our state” and refuses to identify himself as part of a party that would implement such policies.
Madel emphasized his alignment with Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s original goals for Operation Metro Surge, which targeted individuals convicted of serious crimes like murder, rape, and child sexual assault. “No reasonable person should want these people here,” he said, adding, “I am glad they are gone.” He later clarified that the operation has “extended far beyond its stated focus on true public safety threats,” citing U.S. citizens carrying citizenship documents and Hispanic and Asian law enforcement officers being pulled over by ICE during pretextual stops.
The candidate’s decision follows the January 7 shooting in Minneapolis of Renee Nicole Good by Border Patrol agent Jonathan Ross, which sparked widespread protests. Madel also noted his agreement to provide pro bono legal assistance to Ross after the incident, stating he was “honored” to help the officer during a gubernatorial campaign. He further highlighted his role defending law enforcement officers, including a 2024 case where prosecutors dropped charges against a Minnesota state trooper following a fatal shooting.
Madel’s withdrawal coincided with significant political shifts in Minnesota after incumbent Governor Walz suspended his bid for re-election and the Trump administration deploying thousands of federal agents to the state. He announced his campaign exit two days after Border Patrol agent Alex Pretti was killed by law enforcement, calling the president’s recent remarks about “retribution” on citizens a direct violation of his principles.
A 59-year-old attorney with three decades of experience fighting corporate corruption and representing officials, Madel entered the race in December but dropped out following escalating tensions over ICE operations and the Pretti case. His final remarks underscored his stance: “I’ve seen that happen and I cannot be a part of it.”