Olivia Rodrigo has publicly voiced support for protesters in Minnesota following a deadly encounter involving federal immigration agents, adding her name to a growing list of public figures—including Doja Cat—reacting to the unfolding situation. The singer shared a series of Instagram Stories in which she condemned the actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and expressed solidarity with demonstrators opposing the agency’s presence and tactics in the state.
In her posts, Rodrigo described ICE’s conduct as “unconscionable” and encouraged her followers to engage politically by contacting their senators and opposing further federal funding for the agency. She closed one message with a direct statement of support, writing, “I stand with Minnesota.”
Rodrigo’s comments came in the wake of an incident reported by NBC News on January 24, in which federal immigration agents shot and killed a 37-year-old man in Minneapolis during an enforcement operation. The man was identified by his family as Alex Jeffrey Pretti, an intensive care nurse. According to the Department of Homeland Security, officers involved in the operation said they were approached by an armed resident who violently resisted efforts to disarm him, leading to the shooting.
Local officials have offered a more cautious assessment. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said at a news conference that authorities believe Pretti was a lawful gun owner with a permit to carry. Details surrounding the encounter remain unclear, and investigations are ongoing. The shooting sparked immediate protests in the city, with demonstrators condemning federal immigration enforcement practices and demanding accountability and transparency.
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