Full Breakdown
Glenn Close Critiques Trump Administration Following Fatal Shooting of Alex Pretti
1/27/2026, 12:02:29 AM
Overview of the Incident
Oscar-winning actress Glenn Close publicly criticized the Trump administration in response to the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old U.S. citizen and intensive care nurse, by federal Border Patrol agents during an immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis on January 24, 2026. Close described the incident as emblematic of a broader crisis facing American democracy, stating that it represents a systematic dismantling of democratic institutions.
Glenn Close's Statements
In a video posted on social media, Close expressed her outrage, stating, “I am outraged and sickened by what is happening under the Trump regime. The cruelty, inhumanity, and arrogance…the cold-blooded murder of American citizens.” She emphasized that the current political climate is marked by “voracious corruption” and “blatant manipulation of facts.” Close's remarks were prompted by her perception of a dangerous turning point for the country, particularly following the shooting of Pretti, which she characterized as a significant event in the ongoing struggle for justice and democracy in the United States.
Context of the Shooting
The shooting of Alex Pretti occurred during a federal operation targeting an undocumented individual. According to federal officials, Pretti approached the agents while armed and resisted efforts to disarm him. However, video evidence suggests that Pretti was initially holding a phone and attempting to assist a woman who had been pushed to the ground. Eyewitness accounts and local officials have raised questions about the justification for the use of lethal force in this situation.
Official Responses
President Donald Trump addressed the incident in an interview, stating that the administration was "reviewing everything" related to the shooting but did not explicitly endorse the actions of the Border Patrol agent involved. He criticized local officials and suggested that unrest was exacerbated by Democratic policies. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz also commented on the incident, expressing his condolences to Pretti's family and condemning attempts to smear Pretti's character posthumously.
Criticism and Opposition
Close's statements have resonated with other public figures who have similarly criticized the Trump administration's immigration policies. Actress Natalie Portman described the government's actions as "absolutely horrific," while Olivia Wilde expressed her disgust at the normalization of violence against citizens. Critics argue that the administration's approach to immigration enforcement has led to unnecessary violence and a breakdown of trust in law enforcement.
Conflicting Reports
There are discrepancies regarding the circumstances surrounding Pretti's death. While federal officials claim he was armed and posed a threat, video footage indicates he was not brandishing a weapon at the time of the shooting. Pretti's family has vehemently denied the administration's portrayal of their son, describing him as a compassionate individual dedicated to caring for veterans.
Conclusion
Glenn Close's remarks highlight a growing concern among various public figures regarding the implications of current immigration enforcement practices and their impact on American democracy. As the situation continues to unfold, the discourse surrounding the shooting of Alex Pretti and the broader implications for civil rights remains a critical topic of national conversation.
