ST. PAUL — The political shockwaves from the killing of Alex Pretti are fracturing the Minnesota Republican party. On Monday, gubernatorial candidate Chris Madel abruptly ended his campaign, citing the “unmitigated disaster” of the federal crackdown and the Trump administration’s rhetoric.

Chris Madel Switches Sides

Madel, a prominent attorney who previously represented law enforcement, posted a scathing video announcement. He specifically targeted DHS Secretary Kristi Noem’s recent comments, in which she labeled Pretti a “domestic terrorist” and a “would-be assassin.”

“I cannot support the national Republican’s stated retribution on the citizens of our state,” Madel said in the video. “Kristi Noem’s words are not just dangerous; they are a betrayal of the very people we claim to represent. I will not be a member of a party that declares war on its own citizens.”

Trump Facing “2A” Backlash

The fallout has reached the White House, where President Trump is facing unexpected fury from Second Amendment advocates. Gun rights groups have condemned the administration’s characterization of Pretti (a licensed carrier) as a terrorist solely for possessing a firearm.

“Owning a gun does not make you a criminal, and it certainly doesn’t justify a summary execution by federal agents,” read a statement from the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus. Analysts suggest that Noem’s hardline rhetoric may be backfiring, alienating the party’s libertarian wing and prompting moderate conservatives like Madel to defect.