Top Trump Homeland Security spokeswoman leaving amid backlash over immigration crackdown

Tricia McLaughlin, the top spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security, is leaving her position. The departure comes amidst declining public support for President Trump's strict immigration policies. McLaughlin was a vocal advocate for the administration's approach to immigration and led the DHS press operation. The DHS has faced criticism for releasing inaccurate information following violent incidents involving federal immigration officers. Her departure follows a drop in public support for Trump's immigration enforcement, particularly after the shooting deaths of two US citizens by ICE officers in Minneapolis. The reasons for McLaughlin's departure and her future plans are currently unknown.

Minnesota officials report that the FBI is refusing to cooperate with the state's investigation into the January 24th shooting death of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse, by US Customs and Border Protection agents in Minneapolis. The shooting occurred during a protest against immigration enforcement. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) accuses the FBI of withholding information and evidence, calling the lack of cooperation "concerning and unprecedented." The BCA has stated its commitment to a thorough and transparent investigation despite the lack of federal cooperation and would welcome a joint investigation. Pretti's family has also called for a joint investigation to ensure justice and accountability. The incident occurred in the context of Operation Metro Surge, a controversial immigration crackdown launched during the Trump administration.

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) entered a partial shutdown on Saturday, February 14, 2026, due to stalled funding negotiations between Republicans and Democrats. This marks the third partial government shutdown of President Trump's second term. Democrats are demanding increased oversight of DHS immigration operations following two fatal shootings of US citizens by ICE and Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis last month. They are also calling for a ban on immigration agents wearing masks. The shutdown affects agencies like the TSA, FEMA, CBP, ICE, and the US Coast Guard, with thousands of TSA employees furloughed. Congress is in recess until February 23, leaving the funding impasse unresolved.