SPOKANE, Wash, — On Saturday, Border Patrol agents shot and killed Alex Pretti during protests in Minnesota, sparking calls for transparency from supporters of immigration efforts.
Video of the shooting has led many to demand answers. Washington Congressman Michael Baumgartner shared his concerns on social media, describing the incident as “disturbing.”
NonStop Local sat down with Baumgartner to discuss his social media post and his expectations from those in power.
Baumgartner expressed his disturbance over the loss of life and the actions of protesters interfering with law enforcement. He also criticized local officials for making statements without having all the facts.
“We do need to be a nation of law,” Baumgartner said. He emphasized the importance of lowering tensions to allow for peaceful law enforcement operations and called for the administration to address questions from the public.
When asked about bringing guns to protests, Baumgartner, a supporter of the Second Amendment, stressed the need for common sense.
“Anytime you approach a law enforcement officer and you do have a sidearm with you, you should identify that to the law enforcement officers,” he said.
Addressing accusations of murder from those who viewed the video, Baumgartner urged for an investigation and responsible statements from elected officials based on facts.
On the topic of immigration enforcement, Baumgartner acknowledged the situation in Minnesota appeared aggressive and concerning. He highlighted the challenges posed by sanctuary city and state laws, which he said make it more difficult for immigration officials to focus on the most violent offenders.
Baumgartner also addressed potential skepticism about his motives, stating that his focus is on serving the people of Eastern Washington.
“I just wake up every day thinking about how can I make the people of Eastern Washington wealthier, healthier, safer, and better educated,” he said. Despite election concerns, he remained confident in his work for his constituents.
