The Story Has ICE become the US president's 'private army'?
Jan 23, 2026
Will Pavia, New York correspondent for The Times, provides compelling on-the-ground insights from Minneapolis, where protests erupted after ICE agent Renee Good was shot. He outlines the chaotic scene with thousands marching, masked agents stirring fear, and community unrest. Pavia explores how ICE has grown powerful since 9/11, driven by political agendas and controversial tactics. Discussions include the federal response to protests and implications for local communities, highlighting the polarization surrounding ICE's role and the evolving landscape of U.S. immigration enforcement.
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Night Of Barricades And Community Support
- Will Pavia describes midnight scenes by the barricades after Renée Nicole Good was killed, with neighbours bringing logs, food and support.
- Protesters compared the mood to the George Floyd unrest and feared violence repeating in their neighbourhoods.
Fraud Narrative Fueled Federal Surge
- The Trump administration framed a surge in ICE as a response to alleged social services fraud tied to Somali charities.
- That narrative justified sending a large federal immigration force into Minneapolis to 'clean up' perceived crime.
The Fatal Confrontation On Video
- Will Pavia recounts the filmed confrontation where Renée Good blocked ICE vehicles, exchanged words, then drove off and was shot by an ICE agent.
- The car then crashed and she died at the scene, captured on video and sparking divided interpretations.