Story perspectives

Operation Metro Surge Chief Links Protests to Violence

1/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

Tom Homan, head of Operation Metro Surge, linked anti-ICE protests to killings of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti, saying rhetoric incited violence.
He urged protesters to direct grievances toward Congress rather than the streets.
Homan claimed rhetoric increased assaults on federal agents, but evidence shows Good and Pretti were not obstructing officers.
Critics say U.S. President Donald Trump's administration frames events to ignore community resistance to aggressive federal actions.

History

Historical Context

In 1954, the U.S. government launched Operation Wetback, a military-style initiative aimed at deporting undocumented Mexican immigrants amid rising anti-immigrant sentiment. Over 1 million individuals were expelled, often without due process, leading to community backlash. This historical episode parallels today's protests against ICE, underscoring ongoing tensions over immigration policy and community rights in America.

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Story summary

Tom Homan, head of Operation Metro Surge, linked anti-ICE protests to killings of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti, saying rhetoric incited violence.
He urged protesters to direct grievances toward Congress rather than the streets.
Homan claimed rhetoric increased assaults on federal agents, but evidence shows Good and Pretti were not obstructing officers.
Critics say U.S. President Donald Trump's administration frames events to ignore community resistance to aggressive federal actions.

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