1. United States
2. Tenn.
3. Letter

I’m a former Naval Officer and a service-connected disabled veteran who relies on VA healthcare. I’m writing in outrage over the killing of Alex Pretti — a 37-year-old ICU nurse, VA employee, and U.S. citizen — by federal agents in Minneapolis on January 24. Video confirms Pretti was unarmed, holding a phone — not a weapon. He was pepper-sprayed, tackled, and shot by ICE and CBP agents in a residential neighborhood. The Department of Justice has since opened a civil rights investigation. But even before facts were known, some Members of Congress — including Senator Graham — rushed to defend the agents and blame “sanctuary cities.” That’s not leadership. That’s a fact-free excuse for state violence, and it’s unacceptable. As someone who served under rules of engagement, chain of command, and lawful conduct, I find these political responses offensive — and dangerous. Federal agents operating domestically should never be above scrutiny, especially when lethal force is involved. I’m asking you to act: • Support full, independent congressional oversight with subpoena power and public hearings. • Back limits on ICE, CBP, and other federal agents operating in civilian communities without local accountability. • Condition DHS and ICE funding on real reforms to transparency, de-escalation, and independent use-of-force review. This is not just about one case — it’s about whether Congress will tolerate federal agents killing unarmed citizens with impunity. Please tell me what specific steps you are taking. Silence is not an option.