Minnesota GOP Hopeful Quits Race, Criticizes Federal Tactics

Chris Madel, a lawyer from Minneapolis, has decided to step back from his campaign for Minnesota governor. His decision comes after a series of events that have stirred up controversy in the state. Madel, who was never elected before, joined the race in December. He was known for supporting law enforcement. Recently, he gained attention for representing Jonathan Ross, an ICE agent involved in a shooting. Ross shot Renee Good, a 37-year-old woman from Minneapolis. Madel's exit from the race is notable. He posted a video message on social media. In it, he criticized the national Republican Party. He said he couldn't support their actions against Minnesota citizens. He also mentioned that he couldn't be part of a party that would do such things. The situation in Minnesota has been tense. Federal agents killed Alex Pretti, a nurse who was protesting immigration actions. A video analysis by CNN shows an agent taking a gun from Pretti before he was shot. This event has sparked more criticism.Madel's comments are surprising. He had been defending federal agents. Now, he's speaking out against their actions. Some Republicans are starting to question these actions too. The political scene in Minnesota is changing. Governor Tim Walz recently ended his reelection bid. This was after a federal investigation into a scandal. Senator Amy Klobuchar is considering running for governor. She's focused on getting ICE agents out of Minnesota. Madel's campaign was gaining some traction. He often finished in the top share of Republican challengers in straw polls. However, no Republican has won a statewide election in Minnesota since 2006. Madel mentioned this in his video message. He said national Republicans made it hard for a Republican to win in Minnesota.