A notable Republican candidate for governor of Minnesota, Chris Madel, announced his withdrawal from the race on January 26, 2026, citing the “unmitigated disaster” of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in the state as a primary reason. Madel, an attorney based in Minneapolis, made the announcement through a video shared on social media platform X, where he expressed his discontent with the current political climate surrounding immigration enforcement.
In the video, Madel stated, “I cannot support the … stated retribution on the citizens of our state, nor can I count myself a member of a party that would do so.” He underscored the troubling trend of United States citizens needing documentation to prove their citizenship, describing it as fundamentally wrong.
Madel’s law firm, Madel PA, previously provided legal representation to Jonathan Ross, the ICE officer involved in the fatal shooting of Renee Good on January 7, 2026, which led to significant protests in Minneapolis. While previously advocating for the deportation of undocumented immigrants committing serious crimes, Madel expressed concern that ICE’s current Operation Metro Surge has “expanded far beyond its stated focus on true public safety threats.”
Madel cited the impact of these operations on his campaign, stating that the actions ordered by a Republican president have made it “nearly impossible” for a Republican to win a statewide election in Minnesota.
Political Reactions and Implications
In his resignation announcement, Madel conveyed support for local law enforcement officers, noting that they are placed in a difficult position by being instructed not to assist federal officers during ongoing protests. He emphasized the need to act in accordance with his principles, saying, “At the end of the day, I have to look my daughters in the eye and tell them: ‘I believe I did what was right.’ And I am doing that today.”
The Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party responded to Madel’s departure by urging fellow Republicans to oppose the policies of former President Donald Trump. Chair Richard Carlbom questioned whether other Republicans would prioritize the welfare of their constituents over their political ambitions in light of Madel’s decision.
Carrying significant weight in Minnesota’s political landscape, this development raises questions about the future of the Republican Party in the state, particularly regarding its stance on immigration and law enforcement practices.
Madel’s exit from the gubernatorial race reflects broader tensions within the party and the ongoing debate over immigration policies and their social implications. As the political climate continues to evolve, the reactions from other Republican candidates may shape the narrative leading into the upcoming elections.
This significant withdrawal highlights the complexities surrounding immigration enforcement and its impact on local communities, prompting a reassessment of political strategies among candidates across party lines.