Trump Border Czar Dodges Questions on ICE Shootings

Tom Homan deflects blame for controversial killings by federal agents in Minneapolis.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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In a televised interview, former Trump administration official Tom Homan struggled to distance himself from the fallout over the killings of two U.S. citizens by federal agents during an immigration operation in Minneapolis. Homan repeatedly refused to comment on the shootings, saying the investigations should 'play out', and also sidestepped questions about the Department of Homeland Security's 'credibility problem' under Secretary Kristi Noem.

Why it matters

The interview highlights the ongoing tensions and lack of accountability within the Trump administration's aggressive approach to immigration enforcement, which has faced significant backlash from local communities. The killings in Minneapolis sparked protests and renewed calls for the removal of ICE from the city.

The details

During the interview, Homan refused to take responsibility for the killings of 37-year-olds Alex Pretti and Renee Good by federal agents, saying the questions should be directed at the Department of Justice and other officials. He also danced around questions about Noem's comments suggesting the DHS's focus was on 'electing the right leaders', which Tapper said was not the department's responsibility. Homan acknowledged he and Noem did not agree on everything, but said they worked as a 'strong team' despite their differences.

  • The killings of Pretti and Good occurred in January 2026.
  • Homan's interview on CNN's 'State of the Union' took place on February 15, 2026.

The players

Tom Homan

A former Trump administration official who served as the president's border czar.

Kristi Noem

The current Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

Alex Pretti

A 37-year-old U.S. citizen killed by federal agents during an immigration operation in Minneapolis.

Renee Good

A 37-year-old U.S. citizen killed by federal agents during an immigration operation in Minneapolis.

Greg Bovino

A Border Patrol 'commander-at-large' whose methods in Minneapolis led to nationwide protests.

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What they’re saying

“That's a question for DOJ. That happened before I had my my feet on the ground in Minnesota. So I'll leave that.”

— Tom Homan, Former Trump Border Czar (CNN)

“It may be one of the most important things that we need to make sure we trust is reliable, and that when it gets to election day that we've been proactive to make sure that we have the right people voting, electing the right leaders to lead this country.”

— Kristi Noem, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (CNN)

“If I had to guess probably, that, you know, only those legally eligible to vote would vote. But I have not talked to the Secretary about those statements. That would be something she'd have to answer.”

— Tom Homan, Former Trump Border Czar (CNN)

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.