Target Faces Challenges Beyond Nationwide Protest

New CEO Michael Fiddelke takes over as Target navigates civil unrest and declining sales.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 8:47am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Minneapolis-based retailer Target is facing a perfect storm of challenges, including a nationwide protest planned by activist groups, unions, and celebrities in response to recent fatal shootings by immigration officers in Minnesota, as well as ongoing struggles with flat or declining comparable sales over the past 12 quarters. The company's new CEO, Michael Fiddelke, is taking over amidst this turmoil, with hundreds of Target employees already signing a letter urging the company to bar ICE from its stores.

Why it matters

Target is a major employer and presence in Minneapolis, a city that has seen its share of civil unrest in recent years. The company's ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial not only for its own financial performance, but also for the broader community. Additionally, the transition to new leadership at this critical juncture will be closely watched.

The details

Activist groups, unions, and some celebrities, including Hannah Einbinder and Pedro Pascal, are promoting a nationwide 'blackout' on Friday, with no work, school, or shopping, in response to the recent fatal shootings by immigration officers in Minnesota. While past similar protests have had limited economic impact, they are meant to signal frustration. Meanwhile, Target has faced its own internal challenges, with 10 out of the past 12 quarters seeing flat or declining comparable sales. The company has promoted from within, with Michael Fiddelke taking over as CEO this weekend, but some believe drastic changes may be needed to turn the business around.

  • The nationwide 'blackout' protest is planned for Friday, January 30, 2026.
  • Minnesotans protested regionally on January 23, 2026 in response to the fatal shootings by immigration officers.
  • Over the past 12 quarters, 10 have had flat or declining comparable sales for Target.

The players

Michael Fiddelke

The new CEO of Target, taking over this weekend. He is a longtime company employee, starting as a finance intern, and is facing a challenging transition period.

Brian Cornell

The former longtime CEO of Target, who is staying on as executive chairman as Fiddelke takes over.

Hannah Einbinder

A celebrity who is promoting the nationwide 'blackout' protest in response to the fatal shootings by immigration officers in Minnesota.

Pedro Pascal

A celebrity who is promoting the nationwide 'blackout' protest in response to the fatal shootings by immigration officers in Minnesota.

Susan Collins

A Senator from Maine who announced that ICE has halted 'enhanced activities' in the state in response to the protests.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.