Minnesota CEOs Urge Rapid De-escalation Following Local Shooting
In response to rising tensions following a fatal shooting incident in Minneapolis, over 60 CEOs from leading Minnesota companies have issued a joint open letter. This letter, published on January 24, 2026, urges local, state, and federal authorities to collaborate on de-escalating the situation.
Background on the Incident
The call for action came in the wake of the tragic shooting of 37-year-old Alex Pretti by federal agents. The incident has ignited widespread protests against aggressive immigration enforcement measures affecting communities across the state.
CEOs Uniting for Change
Among the prominent signatories are:
- 3M CEO William Brown
- Best Buy CEO Corie Barry
- General Mills CEO Jeff Harmening
- Target’s incoming CEO Michael Fiddelke
- UnitedHealth Group CEO Stephen Helmsley
The open letter reflects a growing concern within the business community regarding the implications of federal enforcement activities. Prior to this letter, many companies had refrained from publicly addressing the unfolding crisis.
Rising Protests and Economic Impact
The unrest has directly targeted businesses perceived as complacent in the face of federal actions. Companies like Target have faced backlash from protesters demanding stronger stances against immigration enforcement.
Additionally, a hotel in Minnesota faced criticism for refusing to accommodate federal immigration agents, leading to a public apology for conflicting with their operational policies. The broader economic impact has been severe, with some businesses reporting sales declines of up to 80%.
A Call for Cooperation and Peace
The letter appeals for peace and constructive dialogue among leaders at all levels. The CEOs emphasize the necessity for a unified response to restore normalcy and support for families and communities throughout Minnesota.
According to the letter, “In this difficult moment for our community, we call for peace and focused cooperation among local, state, and federal leaders to achieve a swift and durable solution.”
As Minnesota grapples with these challenges, the need for collaboration has never been more critical for fostering a future of stability and growth.
