Anderson Cooper 360 DOJ Investigating MN Governor & Minneapolis Mayor Over Alleged Obstruction
Jan 17, 2026
Caitlin Collins, CNN's chief White House correspondent, joins former federal prosecutor Jeffrey Toobin and on-scene reporter Shemar Prokupet to dissect a Justice Department investigation into Minnesota's governor and mayor for alleged obstruction. They explore the implications of invoking the Insurrection Act, the political versus legal motives behind the probe, and the tensions unfolding in Minneapolis. Coupled with detailed analyses of a controversial shooting, this discussion delves deep into pressing legal and political themes.
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DOJ Investigates Local Leaders
- The DOJ opened a grand-jury probe into Minnesota leaders over alleged obstruction tied to their public comments about federal agents.
- Tim Walz and Jacob Frey say the investigation is political weaponization, escalating tensions between federal and local officials.
Words, Not Actions, Are Under Scrutiny
- Mayor Frey and Governor Walz publicly urged recording federal agents and peaceful protest, prompting accusations of creating a hostile environment.
- The probe appears focused on their words rather than physical actions, raising legal questions about criminal obstruction.
Federal Surge Raises Insurrection Talk
- The federal presence in Minneapolis surged with roughly 3,000 agents and public photos emphasizing a crackdown on 'violent rioters.'
- President Trump signaled willingness to use the Insurrection Act, intensifying fears about deploying military forces domestically.
