DOJ Investigates Walz and Frey

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey are facing a federal investigation, according to two U.S. officials who spoke with WCCO. The investigation concerns allegations of obstructing law enforcement activities.

Federal Investigation of Walz and Frey

The Department of Justice is investigating Walz and Frey for allegedly obstructing law enforcement activities. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Minnesota declined to comment on the matter. Neither Walz’s nor Frey’s offices have confirmed receiving official notification of the investigation.

Walz’s Response

Governor Walz released a statement characterizing the investigation as a “dangerous, authoritarian tactic” and a “weaponizing of the justice system.” He also referenced recent inquiries directed at other political figures, including U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, and U.S. Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona. Walz further stated that the only person not being investigated regarding the shooting of Renee Good is the federal agent who shot her.

Slotkin and Congressional Democrats

Senator Slotkin confirmed receiving inquiries from the Justice Department following her appearance in a video message urging members of the military not to follow “illegal orders.” Four other congressional Democrats also reportedly received similar inquiries.

Actions Regarding Senator Kelly

The Pentagon recently took steps to demote Senator Kelly’s rank in the Navy and potentially reduce his military pension due to his involvement in the same video.

Investigation of Jerome Powell

The Federal Reserve received grand jury subpoenas from the Justice Department related to a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Powell addressed the subpoenas in a video statement.

Frey’s Response

Mayor Frey stated that the investigation is an attempt to intimidate him for defending Minneapolis and its residents. He affirmed his commitment to keeping the city safe and emphasized the importance of integrity and the rule of law in governance.

Legal Analysis

David Schultz, a First Amendment law expert at Hamline University and University of St. Thomas School of Law, expressed skepticism about the investigation’s viability. He stated that public comments from Walz and Frey likely fall under protected speech and that the government would face a high bar in demonstrating verbal encouragement of a “real overt act of obstruction.” Schultz suggested that the use of the DOJ by President Trump is intended to create difficulties for Walz and other Minnesota officials.