60 Minnesota CEOs BAN TOGETHER–Demand Action

Wall Street sign with American flags in the background

A bold plea from Minnesota’s business leaders demands an end to violence that threatens the state’s stability and values.

Story Highlights

Over 60 CEOs from Minnesota-based companies, including Fortune 500 leaders, call for de-escalation following ICE operations.
The letter was released after the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, a nurse, by Border Patrol agents.
Business leaders seek cooperation, avoiding direct criticism of federal immigration enforcement.
State-federal tensions rise as Trump administration demands voter rolls and public assistance data.

Business Leaders Demand Peace Amidst Federal Operations

On January 25, 2026, more than 60 CEOs from major Minnesota-based companies issued an open letter calling for “immediate de-escalation” of tensions. This unprecedented move followed the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse, by Border Patrol agents. The letter, signed by leading companies like Target and 3M, seeks to resolve the crisis while maintaining business operations in the state.

This appeal emphasizes “focused cooperation” rather than confrontation, urging federal and state leaders to collaborate for a peaceful solution. The involvement of Minnesota’s business community underscores the gravity of the situation, as they break their silence to protect their workforce and community reputation.

Federal-State Tensions Over Immigration Enforcement

The Trump administration’s immigration crackdown, especially through ICE’s “Operation Metro,” has caused significant unrest in Minnesota. State and local officials, including Governor Tim Walz, have demanded federal withdrawal, citing the unjustified use of force and fatalities. However, the administration has disregarded these requests, instead demanding state cooperation on voter rolls and public assistance data as a condition for restoring order.

This standoff highlights the ongoing power struggle between federal and state authorities. Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon has rejected these demands, labeling them as “unlawful” and akin to ransom. The business community’s call for de-escalation seeks to mediate this conflict by promoting dialogue over division.

The recent incidents, including the shooting of Alex Pretti, have exacerbated existing tensions, leading to large-scale protests and civil unrest. The situation remains volatile, with the business community’s intervention marking a pivotal moment in the state’s response.

Implications for Minnesota’s Future

The continued federal presence in Minnesota poses significant challenges for the state’s business climate and social fabric. Companies face potential operational disruptions and reputational risks, while the community grapples with the loss of life and trust in authorities. The business leaders’ letter represents an effort to safeguard Minnesota’s economic and social future by advocating for peaceful resolution and cooperation.

As the state navigates this crisis, the involvement of major healthcare institutions and Fortune 500 companies underscores the potential ripple effects across multiple sectors. The resolution of this conflict will have lasting implications for state-federal relations and the broader business environment in Minnesota.

The call for peace and cooperation reflects a broader desire to protect the values and stability of the community, emphasizing the importance of finding a sustainable resolution to the ongoing conflict.