WASHINGTON (GeokHub) — U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Alex Pretti, the man fatally shot by a federal agent during an immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis, should not have been carrying a firearm or fully loaded magazines, comments that have drawn criticism from gun rights advocates and exposed divisions within Republican ranks.
Speaking to reporters during a stop at a restaurant in Iowa, Trump said he believed carrying a gun during the encounter was inappropriate, even though the weapon was legally permitted under state law.
“He had a gun. I don’t like that,” Trump said, adding that Pretti also carried two fully loaded magazines. “That’s a lot of bad stuff. And despite that, I’d say it’s very unfortunate.”
When asked whether he agreed with some administration officials who previously described Pretti as a domestic terrorist, Trump said he had not heard that characterization.
Pretti, a licensed concealed-carry holder, was shot and killed on Saturday by federal agents during an immigration operation. The incident triggered public backlash and led to changes in leadership ordered by the White House.
Gun Rights Groups Push Back
Gun rights organizations quickly criticized Trump’s remarks, noting that Pretti was legally armed and had not drawn or used his weapon during the encounter.
Video footage recorded by bystanders and widely circulated online appears to show Pretti holding a mobile phone and never reaching for his firearm before being shot, contradicting early official claims that he posed an imminent threat to law enforcement.
Advocacy groups said Trump’s comments undermine long-standing legal protections for lawful gun ownership.
“You absolutely can walk around with a gun, and you absolutely can peacefully protest while armed,” said a spokesperson for one national gun rights organization, calling it a deeply rooted American tradition.
Political Fallout Ahead of Midterms
Gun rights groups are among the most reliable voting blocs for Republicans, and the comments have highlighted growing tensions within the party ahead of November’s midterm elections.
Trump made the remarks while greeting supporters before delivering a speech focused on economic policy. He also said his border policy coordinator had met with Minnesota’s governor and was expected to hold talks with Minneapolis city officials later in the day.
The shooting remains under investigation.
