The Lead with Jake Tapper Trump On Alex Pretti: “You Can’t Walk In With Guns”
Jan 28, 2026
President Trump, 45th President of the United States, speaks via recorded remarks and interview clips about the Alex Pretti shooting and immigration operations. He promises to oversee an investigation. The conversation touches on federal staffing changes, legal debates over protest conduct, eyewitness video and officer details, and governors preparing for possible immigration raids.
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Trump Frames The Shooting As Unfortunate
- President Trump called Alex Preddy's death "very unfortunate" while criticizing that Preddy had a gun and two loaded magazines.
- The remark contrasts with immediate administration claims labeling Preddy an assassin, revealing conflicting narratives.
Administration Messaging Was Immediately Contradictory
- Stephen Miller and others in the administration called Preddy an assassin and have not retracted the claim.
- Jake Tapper notes those false accusations remain online without apology to Preddy's family.
Observers Were Tracked Before The Fatal Encounter
- Federal agents were collecting personal data on people labeled as protesters, including Alex Preddy.
- Preddy previously reported being tackled by agents and believing he might die, highlighting tensions before the shooting.
