Following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti on Saturday, a series of on-air suggestions from “Fox & Friends” co-host Brian Kilmeade culminated in a direct response from President Trump Monday morning: the deployment of Tom Homan to Minnesota. Kilmeade first proposed bringing in Homan, a former Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) director, around 6:15 a.m., repeating the suggestion twice more before 8:10 a.m.
Conservative Media Focus on Narrative
Kilmeade’s repeated pitch, according to reporting, reflects a broader concern within pro-Trump media regarding the administration’s handling of the shooting and its potential impact on perceptions of immigration enforcement. Many outlets are defending law enforcement while simultaneously expressing worry over the public’s reaction to imagery emerging from Minnesota. The New York Post editorial board, also part of the Rupert Murdoch media empire alongside Fox News, called for “de-escalation” in Minneapolis, arguing current tactics were “backfiring.”
The Post’s editors claimed the left “wants a civil war” and urged Trump to demonstrate “calm leadership.” Kilmeade echoed these sentiments on air, reading directly from the Post’s editorial and stating, “The bottom line is, these images are not the ones that are going to help you keep the majorities.” This focus highlights a concern with “optics” and “narrative discipline” within these media circles.
Internal Debate and Skepticism
While a strong defense of law enforcement has been prevalent, some figures within the pro-Trump media landscape have expressed skepticism regarding the administration’s initial claims about the shooting. Some pointed out contradictions in the government’s account, while others, like podcaster Jack Posobiec, promoted claims that were later corrected by other users on X. Fox News correspondent Bill Melugin, who often receives information from Homeland Security officials, shared a photo of the weapon allegedly carried by Pretti, contributing to the initial narrative.
National Review even asserted Monday that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has “repeatedly demonstrated that she is incapable of speaking honestly” about the events surrounding Pretti’s death, labeling her a “growing liability” for Trump.
What Might Happen Next
Tom Homan’s deployment to Minnesota could take several forms. He may act as a liaison between the administration and local law enforcement, or he could be tasked with advising on a revised strategy for immigration enforcement in the area. It is also possible his presence is intended to signal a firm stance to those critical of federal actions. Depending on the situation on the ground, further deployments of federal resources could follow. However, if Homan’s presence fails to shift the narrative or de-escalate tensions, the administration may face continued criticism from both sides of the political spectrum.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted President Trump to send Tom Homan to Minnesota?
Brian Kilmeade, co-host of “Fox & Friends,” repeatedly suggested bringing in Tom Homan to address the administration’s handling of the shooting of Alex Pretti, and President Trump announced the deployment approximately 20 minutes after Kilmeade’s third suggestion.
What is the primary concern expressed by pro-Trump media regarding the situation in Minnesota?
The primary concern is the negative impact of imagery from Minnesota on public perception of immigration enforcement and the potential consequences for the upcoming election, as stated by Kilmeade on air.
Was there any disagreement within pro-Trump media about the administration’s initial response?
Yes, some writers and hosts pointed out contradictions in the government’s claims, while others promoted claims that were later disputed. However, this pushback was not widespread.
How will the interplay between media messaging and political action shape the response to this event moving forward?
