A prominent Republican candidate for governor of Minnesota, Chris Madel, announced his withdrawal from the race on January 26, 2026. He cited the “unmitigated disaster” stemming from the operations of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the state as the primary reason for his decision. Madel, a Minneapolis-based attorney, made the announcement through a video posted on the social media platform X.
In his statement, Madel expressed his inability to support actions that he deemed punitive towards the citizens of Minnesota. “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 stated in the video. He further elaborated that the current situation has forced United States citizens to carry documentation to prove their citizenship, which he described as fundamentally wrong.
Madel’s law firm, Madel PA, previously represented an ICE officer involved in a high-profile incident where officer Jonathan Ross fatally shot Renee Good on January 7, 2026, in Minneapolis. This incident sparked protests and heightened tensions regarding ICE’s role in the community. Although Madel has previously advocated for the deportation of undocumented immigrants involved in serious crimes, he criticized ICE’s recent operations, particularly Operation Metro Surge, for overstepping its intended focus on genuine public safety threats.
He articulated that the current political climate, exacerbated by the actions of ICE under a Republican administration, has made it “nearly impossible” for a Republican candidate to win a statewide election. Madel emphasized his commitment to his principles, stating, “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.”
Impact on Minnesota’s Political Landscape
Following Madel’s departure from the race, the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party seized the opportunity to challenge other Republicans in the state. Party Chair Richard Carlbom issued a statement urging fellow Republicans to denounce the actions of former President Donald Trump. “Will other Republicans finally stand up to Trump and stand with their fellow Minnesotans? Or will they put their political careers first and foremost while their neighbors suffer?” Carlbom questioned.
Madel’s exit underscores the growing tensions within the Republican Party regarding immigration policy and its implications for local communities. His stance reflects a broader concern among some Republicans about aligning with federal immigration enforcement strategies that they believe could alienate voters.
As Minnesota navigates its political landscape, the repercussions of Madel’s withdrawal may extend beyond his campaign, influencing ongoing discussions about immigration policy and law enforcement practices throughout the state.
