Chris Madel, a Republican candidate for Minnesota governor, has ended his campaign, criticizing the immigration enforcement operation in his state for going “far beyond” its stated focus. In a video statement, he said, “I cannot support the national Republicans’ stated retribution on the citizens of our state, nor can I count myself a member of a party that would do so.”

Madel acknowledged Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s “Operation Metro Surge,” which targets non-citizens convicted of serious crimes such as murder and sexual assault. He cited instances where ICE arrested individuals in Minnesota for these offenses but emphasized the operation has expanded beyond its intended scope. “I support the originally stated goals of Operation Metro Surge in locating and deporting the worst of the worst from our state,” he said, “but it has extended far beyond its focus on true public safety threats.”

Madel also noted that U.S. citizens, particularly those of color, live in fear due to the enforcement activities. He pointed to instances where Hispanic and Asian law enforcement officers were subjected to pretextual stops by ICE agents. A former attorney with 30 years of experience, Madel previously defended a Minnesota state trooper who fatally shot a Black man; prosecutors dropped charges after determining the case was unprovable.

Madel announced his withdrawal two days after Border Patrol agent Jonathan Ross killed Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. Ross has received pro bono legal assistance from Madel to address potential legal issues, following widespread protests over the incident. The decision comes amid heightened tensions as federal immigration operations intensified after Minnesota Governor Walz dropped out of the gubernatorial race earlier this month.