Minneapolis Shooting Victims Labeled 'Domestic Terrorists' by Trump

The president's inflammatory rhetoric against critics draws renewed calls for impeachment.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In the aftermath of a recent shooting incident in Minneapolis, President Donald Trump has sparked outrage by labeling the two victims as 'domestic terrorists', despite the victims being innocent American citizens. This latest inflammatory rhetoric from the president has reignited calls for his impeachment, with critics arguing that his constant barrage of insults, lies, and divisive language have eroded democratic norms and pose a grave threat to the country.

Why it matters

Trump's use of such inflammatory and false language to describe private citizens highlights his ongoing pattern of attacking and demonizing his critics and political opponents. This behavior not only further polarizes the country, but also undermines faith in democratic institutions and the rule of law. The renewed calls for impeachment reflect growing concerns that Trump's authoritarian tendencies and disregard for the truth pose an existential threat to American democracy.

The details

Following a shooting incident in Minneapolis where two American citizens were killed by federal immigration agents, President Trump immediately labeled the victims as 'domestic terrorists' despite no evidence to support that claim. This is part of a broader trend of Trump using vitriolic and false rhetoric to attack anyone who dares to criticize him, including prosecutors, judges, journalists, and political rivals. Critics argue that this behavior goes beyond mere name-calling and represents a concerted effort to intimidate and discredit his opponents.

  • The shooting incident in Minneapolis occurred on February 12, 2026.
  • President Trump made the 'domestic terrorist' comments shortly after the incident on February 13, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The 45th President of the United States, known for his inflammatory rhetoric, disregard for democratic norms, and frequent attacks on critics and political opponents.

Hakeem Jeffries

A Democratic Congressman from New York and the House Democratic Caucus Chairman, who has been criticized for not being more vocal in calling for Trump's impeachment.

Chuck Schumer

The Democratic Senate Majority Leader, who has also been criticized for not doing enough to hold Trump accountable through the impeachment process.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Trump's latest outrageous comments labeling innocent victims as 'domestic terrorists' are a new low, even for him. This is the behavior of a deranged authoritarian, not a democratically-elected leader.”

— Hakeem Jeffries, House Democratic Caucus Chairman (Washington Post)

“We've let Trump's bullying and lies go unchallenged for far too long. It's time for Congress to fulfill its constitutional duty and impeach this president before he does any more damage to our country.”

— Chuck Schumer, Senate Majority Leader (New York Times)

What’s next

The House Judiciary Committee is expected to hold hearings on articles of impeachment against President Trump in the coming weeks, as public support for his removal from office continues to grow.

The takeaway

Trump's relentless attacks on his critics and disregard for the truth have pushed the country to a breaking point. The renewed calls for impeachment reflect a growing recognition that his authoritarian tendencies and divisive rhetoric pose an existential threat to American democracy that can no longer be ignored.